https://archive.org/stream/historyofsouthwe00lewi/historyofsouthwe00lewi_djvu.txt
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History OF Southwest Virginia,
1 746- 1 786,
Washington County,
1777-1870.
BY
LEWIS PRESTON SUMMERS,
OF THE
ABINGDON BAR,
Alumnus of the University of Virginia, and of Tulane University,
Louisiana, and Member of the Virginia
Historical Society.
Richmond, va. :
J. L. Hill Printing Company,
1903.
CMjAiZ.
1-232
copy
THE LIBRARY OF
CONGRESS,
Two Copies Keceived
OCT 21 !903
CopyrighJ Entry
'LAS^J A. XXo. No,
^ M- 1. I
COPY A. '
COPYRIGHT 1903
LEWIS PRESTON SUMMERS.
This Book is dedicated to the memory
of the first settlers of Southwest Virginia,
whose enterprise conquered her domain
and whose love of freedom and valor in
defending their rights have given to, their
posterity the blessings of civil and relig-
ious liberty.
ERRATA.
On pau;cs 18 ivnd .'It) the inotto on the Golden Horseshoe presented hy (Jovernor
Spotswood to his comrades in the expedition across the Blue Ridge Mountains is
fiiven as, "Sic jurat transcendere montes." (Tlius he swears to cross the inonntains.)
r am aware that some autliorities state the motto was, "Sic.juvat transcendere
niontes." (Thus it deli^lits (us) to cross the mountains.)
On page 18, last line, instead of "countries" read "two counties."
On page 31, line 14, read "other" between words "the" and "Indians."
On page o3, line 5, instead of " settling" read "setting."
On page 57, line 11, instead of " Inglish " read " Inglis."
On page 73, line 17, instead of ".Tudds' friend" read .Judds Friend."
On page 70, line 2, the word " Fountainbleau " should lie " Fountainehleau."
On page 93, lines 25 and 2i), instead of " Cloud's Fort " read " Cloud's Ford."
On page 114, line 3, instead of " Walden " read " Wallen."
On page 14:5, line 4, instead of " Glass " read " Gass."
(Jn page 146, line 7, instead of "Bower" read "Bowyer."
(^n page 148, line 18, instead of " Isaach " read " Isaac."
On page 1()4, line 2, a period should appear after "Burgesses," CoHowcd l)y a new
paragraph.
On page 184, line 7, instead of "county " read "country."
On page 195, line 22, instead of " marehandise" read " merchandise."
On page 257, line li, instead of "Washington Districts" read "Washington Dis-
trict."
On page 291, instead of " 1,098.9" read "1.098."
On page 292, line 26, instead of " rank " read " ranks."
( )n page 360, line 2, instead of " was " read " were."
On page 361, line 11, instead of "citizens" read "citizen."
On page 364, line 5, instead of "commissioners" read "commissioner."
On page 367, line 4, instead of "Tranalleghany " read "Transalleghany."
On page 369, line 6, instead of " Walliam" read "William."
On page 370, line 6, instead of "bans" read " banns."
On page 435, line 11, instead of "agents" read "agent.''
On page 448, line 14, instead of "A. S. A." read " U. S. A."
On page 461, line 20, Instead of "effecting" read "affecting."
On page 463, line 15, instead of "effected " read "affected."
On page 488, line U, instead of "Moline del Rey " read "Molino del Rcy."
On page .502, line 1, instead of "receive" read "receives."
On page 521, line 23, instead of "ordinance" read "ordnance."
On page 522, line 1, instead of " Cecill " read " Cecil."
On page 571, line 9, instead of "Dupree" read "Dupre."
On page 590, line 12, instead of "Hindley Harris" read "Findley Harris."
INTRODUCTION.
The writer is a native born son of Southwest Virginia, and has
always felt a great pride in his country, and since reaching ma-
tui-ity has been interested in the history of this section.
Jn the schools bnt little has been tanght in regard to the his-
tory of this portion of Virginia, as but a small part of its history
has been preserved. Our historians have been citizens of Eastern
\'n-giiiia or of other States; and while onr people have been mak-
ing history from the earliest settlement, scarcely any effort has
been made to preserve it, and as a result other parts of our country
whose history has been preserved have in many instances received
credit that properly belongs to the people of this section of Vir-
ginia, and being impressed with this fact, and prompted by a de-
sire to preserve the past history of our people, he determined, a
few years since, to collect the history of Southwest Virginia, in
so far as it was possible, and to rescue the same from oblivion, and
in doing this work he has given such time only as he could spare
from his professional duties.
If an apology is .needed for his effort in thus attempting to pre-
serve this history it will bo found in the remark oi Lord Macaulay,
wherein he justly observed : "A people which takes no pride in the
noble achievements of remote ancestors will never achieve anything
worthy to be remembered with pride by remote descendants."
There can be no question that this section of Virginia has been
robbed of much of the honor due her for the early settlement of
the vast extent of country to the west and south thereof, and
that the noble deeds of her sons have been ascribed to others ; and
a knowledge of this fact has rendered necessary the preservation of
the deeds of the worthy citizens that this section has produced,
not only to gratify the pride of our citizens, but to remind them
of the obligations they are under, and to supply them with exam-
ples of patriotism which they may seek to emulate.
The writer feels his inability to properly perform this task, but
hopes that the gleanings he has gathered may suffice in some more
skillful hands to weave for the founders and builders of our country
8 Jntroduciory.
an enduring garland of glorv, and lie asks a kind iiidnlgoncc of the
reader for sucli errors^ omissions, and imperfections as ma}' be
found in this work.
In the words of Judge Haywood: "Let no one censure his mo-
tives, for they are pure. Thcire will indeed be much room to blame
the defective perfar-mancc of the author, but this he will hear
with the greatest pleasure if the person dissatisfied will, for the
benefit of his eountr\'', either produce a more perfect work or con-
tribute to tlio merits of this."
Ill the pre])aration of this woi'k he has obtained information
from various pei-sons and ])laees, hut in nearly every instance has
]-e(|uireil documentary evidence for all statements made, and has.
given I'eferences where the statement is liable to be (piestioned,
and in quoting original pa])ers has clone so without changing the
same in any particular.
In the course of the preparation of this work he has received as-
sistance from a number of persons, for which he feels deeply
grateful. He desires to mention in this connection the following
persons: Miss Lucy Land rum, his stenographer, who has faithfidly
labored in preparing his manuscript for the printer; W. G. Stan-
ard, secretary of the Virginia Historical Society; the secretary of
the New York Historical So{;iety, Hon. J. L. Bristow; Fourth As-
sistant Postmaster-General, C. A. Dmmington ; Congressional Li-
brary, AVashington, D. C. ; Thomas E. N-imnK>, State Library, llich-
mon, Va. ; Mrs. IVlargarct C. Pilcher, Nashville, Tenn. ; Prof.
T. I). Davidson and maiiy others. L. P. Summers,
June 13, 1903. Abingdon, Va..
History of Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786,
Washington County, 1777-1870.
CHAPTEE I.
1001-1716. The history of Virginia, from the earliest times
until the date of the formation of Washington county by the
General Assembly of Virginia, is interesting and instructive, and
is necessary to a thorough comprehension of thai part of our history
subsequent thereto.
In the year 1001, the American Continent was discovered by Leif
Erickson, a ISTorthman, who sailed west from Greenland, and landed
on the coast of America in 411/4 north latitude. He named the
land of his discovery Vineland. This discovery was made in the
spring of the year, and the luxuriant growth of vegetation that
adorned the land suggested the name^ — Vineland.
This continent was visited by the ISTorthmen at intervals from
the time of the discovery of Erickson until as late as 1347. The
visits of the Northmen to America have often been questioned, and
were generally doubted, until discoveries made in recent times.
An examination of the records and documents to be found in the
archives of the Antiquarian Society of Copenhagen put to rest
this question.
So eminent an authority as Humboldt, after an examination of
the record, says : "The discovery of the northern part of America
by the Northmen cannot be disputed."
No practical benefit resulted from the adventures of the North-
men, and in view of the fact that those people ceased to visit the
newly discovered country after 1347, and actually forgot the ex-
plorations of their people, they are to be given but little credit for
their early discoveries.
Erom the time of the last visit of the Northmen, in 1347, until
the year 1492, the continent of America was unknown to the inhabi-
10 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
tants of the rest of the world ; they had never before heard of such
a land; the curtain of oblivion shut out from the vision of man-
kind the garden spot of God^s creation.
1492. In the year 1492, Christopher Columbus, a native of
Grenoa, Italy, bearing the flag of Spain, after surmounting innumer-
able difficulties, sailed west in search of a new land and discovered
what afterwards proved to be San Salvador, one of the Bahama
Islands. He took possession of the newly discovered land in the
name of the King and Queen of Spain.
Columbus did not visit the mainland of the American Continent
until many years thereafter. Nothing could be more pleasant than
to study the life and daring adventures of Columbus and other
Spanish, Portuguese, and French explorers, but their efforts are in
no way associated with the history of the country that we purpose
to deal with in this book ; this pleasure, therefore, must be deferred
to another time.
Columbus ! His name should be ever revered, and his fame is
as imperishable as the continent that he gave by discovery to the
world.
1497. John Cabot, in the year 1497, sailing the flag of England,
commissioned so to do by Henry VII, discovered Newfoundland
and Labrador, and declared that he had found a new world.
1498. The following year John and Sebastian Cabot, under a
new commission from the King of England, fitted out an expedi-
tion under the charge of Sebastian Cabot, and, sailing in a north-
wardly course, sought a rente to the East India Islands, but the
inclemency of the weather and the insurpassable barrier of ice
forced the abandonment of the original purpose of the expedition.
The course of the voyage was consequently changed, and, as a result,
Virginia was discovered in the year 1498.
John and Sebastian Cabot were the first to discover the Eastern
coast of America, and England laid claim to all the vast territory
between the 34th and 68th parallels of north latitude from the
Atlantic to the Pacific oceans, basing her claim on this discovery.
1539. De Soto, by a commission from the King of Spain, in
the years 1539 and 1540, extended his discoveries from the north
of Florida inland to the head waters of the present Holston and
Clinch rivers and thence to the Mississippi river.
1584. Eighty-five years intervened -between the time of the
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 11
discoveries of John and Sebastian Cabot and the first permanent set-
tlement made in all the vast territory claimed by England by reason
of their discoveries, and the honor attending this event justly be-
longs to Sir Walter Ealeigh, a young nobleman, a participant in
the French Protestant wars, who in 1493 applied to Queen Eliza-
beth for assistance in fitting out an expedition for the purpose of
planting a Colony in America. In answer to his application the
Queen gave him a commission creating him Lord of all that por-
tion of the American continent claimed by England.
The first expedition sent out by Ealeigh was composed of two
ships, and their object was to make discoveries. This expedition
sailed in April, 1584, and', on the 13th day of July of the same
year, entered Ocracoke inlet within the present limits of North
Carolina. Here they remained until September, 1584, at which
time they sailed for England, and upon their arrival Elizabeth gave
the country the name of Virginia. Immediately upon their return
seven ships carrying one hundred and eighty men set sail for the
New World and landed at Eoanoke Island in the year 1585.
This company, charmed with the prospects, decided to settle on
the island. Many of the company, not being accustomed to labor
and not being inclined to work, were greatly disappointed in their
hopes, became disheartened and, at the first opportunity, returned
to England.
Sir Eichard Grenville left fifteen men on the island to guard the
rights of England.,
Sir Ealph Lane, one of the returning colonists, introduced the
use of tobacco into England, he and the other colonists having
learned from the Indians to smoke it.
1587. In 1587 Ealeigh sent out another expedition to settle
Eoanoke Island. This expedition was composed of women and
children as well as men.
Upon reaching their destination in safety they found the tene-
ments and fort in ruins and the beasts of the forest feeding on
the vegetation where the former settlements had been located.
They found, also, scattered about the former settlement, the bones
of the fifteen men left by Sir Eichard Grenville.
This Colony was in charge of John White. Soon after the land-
ing, on August 18th, 1587, a child was bom to Annias and Vir-
ginia Dare, to whom was given the name of '"Virginia Dare." This.
13 Southwest Virginia, nJlt.6-1786.
was the first white child born of Englisli parents in America. Soon
after the birth of Virginia Dare, John White returned to England
for supplies for the Colony, leaving behind him eighty-nine men,
seventeen women and eleven children. He was delayed on his
return voyage and when he arrived at Eoanoke Island after an
absence of three years no trace of the Colony could be found except
the word Croatan carved on a tree.
It is said, but not verified, that some of this Colony found shelter
among the Indians on the coast of North Carolina.
This story of the first settlement in this part of America remains
one of the saddest tragedies in our history.
1606. One hundred and fourteen years had passed since the
discovery of America by Columbus, when King James the First
of England granted to a company* of wealthy merchants a patent
of that part of America lying between the 34th and 45th degrees
north latitude and all islands within one hundred miles of the
coast. This grant was divided between the London and Plymouth
companies.
The London Company sent out an expedition composed of one
hundred and five colonists under the command of Captain Christo-
pher Newport, an experienced seaman. Although this expedition
sailed in 1606, it did not reach the mouth of Chesapeake bay until
May 15, 1607.
f James river and Capes Henry and Charles were discovered
and named for the king of England and his sons. The colonists
continued the voyage up the James river about fifty miles, when
they landed and began the erection of houses and the making of
all necessary arrangements for a permanent settlement. Thus was
founded Jamestown, and thus occurred, according to a noted histo-
rian, "The most important event in profane history," and thus
the foundation stones of the greatest commonwealth and republic
the world has ever known were laid by m^en whose posterity were
destined to kindle a spirit of political and religious liberty such as
can be extinguished only with the Anglo-Saxon race.
This settlement at Jamestown may be regarded as the starting
point of all Virginia histories.
The first Colony in Virginia began under circumstances having
*Stith— Henning's Statutes at Large, page 60.
I Indian name "Powhatan River."
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 13
a tendency to discourage the thoughtful, and reasonably so, because
of the fact that of the one hundred and five colonists only twelve
were laborers, the remaining ninety-seven being tliriftless and dis-
solute.
All power was vested in a body of councillors composed of
Bartholomew Gosnold, John Smith, Edward Winfield, Christopher
Newport, Jolin Eatcliffe, John Martin and George Kendall.
Edward Winfield was chosen the first Grovemor of the Colony of
Virginia, and thus began civil government in America.
Shortly after the settlement Captains Newport and Smith de-
cided to explore the country, traveled up the James river as far as
the falls and visited Powhatan, the king of the Indians, whose
capital was near the present site of the city of Eichmond.
After a short stay at the Indian village, Newport and Smith
returned to Jamestown. Newport soon left for England, and
immediately thereafter trouble arose among the colonists. Win-
field was succeeded by Eatcliffe, and Eatcliffe by Captain Smith,
who, by his excellent management of the Colony, won the title of the
"Father of Virginia."
Late in the autumn Captain Newport returned from England,
bringing about seventy new colonists, two of the number being
women (Mrs. Forrest and Annie Bergess), and a considerable
quantity of supplies.
Among the new colonists were several gold refiners, who, dis-
covering earth near Jamestown having a resemblance to gold, pro-
nounced the same gold of the best quality, and, thereupon, the
entire Colony forsook all commendable enterprises and wasted their
time and energies in loading one of Newport's vessels with this
earth, which proved, upon its arrival in England, to be worthless.
Another ship returning to England would have been loaded with
a similar cargo, but Captain Smith objected, and it was loaded
with cedar wood. This was the first valuable cargo exported from
this part of America to England.
The Colony, having thus wasted their energies and consumed
their supplies, would, no doubt, have perished during the winter
that followed, had not Captain John Smith exercised the energies
of his resourceful mind in feeding and protecting them. The
best friend Captain Smith found in this New World was Poca-
hontas, the daughter of Powhatan, the chief of the Indians. The
14 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
colonists charged that Smith intended to marry Pocahontas and
make himself king of Virginia.
1608. In the year 1G08 Captain Smith, in a small open barge,
explored the Chesapeake bay and its tributaries.
1609. In the month of May, 1609, a new and very beneficial
charter was granted the London Company, and the Colony began
to prosper.
The new charter conferred on the company the powers of the
king, the local authority of the Governor was greatly increased and
Lord Delaware was made Governor for life.
Captain Smith, in this year, divided the Colony and sent a part
thereof to mai:e a settlement at the falls of the James river, near
Eichmond, and another part thereof to Nansemond. In this year
Captain Smith was forced to return to England in consequence of
serious injuries received from the explosion of his powder flask. At
the time of his departure the Colony numbered four hundred and
fifty persons, all abundantly supplied.
Thus terminated the career in America of the man who faithfully
earned the title of the "Father of Virginia."
The Colony thereafter, for a time, was without a competent ruler,
and such was the profligacy and viciousness of the ruler they had,
and the people, that in a short time the condition of the Colony was
changed from prosperity to abject want, and by the spring of 1610
there remained but sixty persons in the Colony, and these were on
the verge of starvation.
At this time Gates and Somers arrived from the West Indies, and
all the Colony, crowding aboard their ships, had actually sailed for
Newfoundland, but they were not out of the James river when
they were met by Lord Delaware, with three ships, many new set-
tlers and a large quantity of provisions, in fact everything requisite
to relieve the situation. Lord Delaware prevailed upon the colo-
nists to return to Jamestown, where under his splendid manage-
ment the Colony prospered again.
Unfortunately, in the year 1611 Lord Delaware was forced by bad
health to return to England, and the government was placed in the
hands of Sir George Percy, a man wanting in authority. In a
short time the Colony was again reduced to abject want. Percy
was succeeded by Sir Thomas Dale, a man of practical ideas, and
again the Colony prospered. He was a soldier by profession, and
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 15
his authority, exercised rightly, met the demands of the hour.
During his administration the Colony was augmented by the arrival
of three hundred emigrants from England,
From the founding of the Colony at Jamestown in 1607 until the
latter part of the administration of Sir Thomas Dale all property
had been held in common, but he directed a division of property
among the colonists, and from this time we may certainly trace
an improvement in the conditions of the people.
Every man thereafter was dependent upon his individual exer-
tions for his livelihood. Laziness was punished by flogging and
irons. Mutineers and deserters were punished with death. The
lands of the colonists were divided and allotted to the members
of the Colony, and then, for the first time, the right of property in
lands was recognized in America. Several new settlements were
made during this time on both sides of the James river.
The administration of the affairs of the Colony was entrusted suc-
cessively to Sir Thomas Gates, George Yeardly and Captain
Argall, and to George Yeardly again in 1619.
The administration of George Yeardly marks an epoch in the
history of mankind.
Beyond question his inspiration was human liberty and repre-
sentative govenment. He believed the colonists should have a
hand in the government of themselves. He called a legislative
assembly to meet at Jamestown on July 30th, 1619, to be composed
of two representatives from each of the eleven boroughs into
which the Colony was divided, and this assembly was called the
House of Burgesses.
Thus was planted the germ from which sprang representative
government in x\merica, and thus to Virginia may be credited the
honor of being the first State in the world* ''composed of separate
boroughs diffused over an extensive surface in which the govern-
ment was organized on the principle of universal suffrage."
All freemen, without exception, were entitled to vote.
In the following year, 1620, a Dutch ship landed at Jamestown
and sold to the planters about twenty Africans to be held as slaves,
and thus began slavery in America.
On the 24th day of July, 1621, the London Company gave to
the Virginia colonists a written Constitution, granting all the rights
*Bancroft.
16 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
and liberties theretofore granted l)y George Yeardly, and, about the
same time, a shipload of English maidens, about one hundred in
all, arrived at Jamestown. There was great rejoicing, and general
prosperity prevailed; the colonists were no longer numbered by
hundreds, but by thousands.
1622. Sir Francis Wyatt became Governor in the year 1G23,
and this year witnessed, on March 22d, the massacre of three hun-
dred and forty-seven men, women and children by the Indians, but
the Colony continued to grow and prosper.
The London Company was dissolved by the King in the year 1625,
and from this time the crowTi of England dictated the policy of the
Colony.
Events passed rapidly in Virginia for the next twenty years. One
governor after another came and Avcnt, but none of them was of
sufficient importance to be mentioned.
1634. /.y-In the year 1634^the territory of Virginia was divided
into eight shires or counties similar to those in England. For each
shire lieutenants were appointed to look after the military affairs,
and sheriffs and justices of the peace were commissioned to hold
courts in each of the counties, or shires. Thus was constituted and
thus began the county court system that continued with but little
change until 1870.
1646. The Virginia Colony in the struggle between Charles T
of England and his Parliament S3'mpathized with the King and
did not hesitate, upon the death of Charles I, to recognize his son,
Charles II, as king.
- Cromwell sent a force to subdue the Colony in 1650, but the
attempt was futile and the Virginians submitted only upon condi-
tion that they be permitted to retain their government and the
rights and privileges previously bestowed by the kings of England ;
which was readily agreed to. Eichard Bennett was elected Gover-
nor, but was shortly thereafter succeeded by Edward Diggs. The
next Governor of Virginia was Samuel Mathews, a Virginia planter
of forty years' standing.
1660. Upon the restoration of Charles II in 1660, Sir William
Berkley again became the Governor of Virginia.
1666. The next event of importance in the history of Virginia
arose in the Colony from the dissatisfaction aroused by the acts of
the British Parliament and the conduct of Sir William Berkley. A
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 17
large portion of the people of Virginia, under the leadership of
JSTathaniel Bacon, rebelled, and drove Sir William Berkley from
Jamestown and forced the commissioning of Bacon as a general.
These troubles ceased with the death of Bacon. This is known as
Bacon's rebellion, and it partook of the spirit that prompted Patrick
Henry and the people of Virginia, a hundred years later, to aspire
to liberty and independence.
For a period of nearly fifty years but little of interest occurred in
the history of Virginia save the succession of governors.
1698. The seat of government was removed from Jamestown to
Williamsburg in 1698. The reason assigned for the removal was
that Williamsburg was healthier, and the situation more convenient.
1710. Alexander Spotswood became the Governor of Virginia
in 1710, and with prudence governed the Colony for twelve years.
He faithfully guarded the interests of the people of Virginia and,
during his administration, inaugurated many new enterprises for
their good..
He was the first Postmaster-General for the Colonies and estab-
lished many postofiices. Under his administration the mails were
regularly carried from Williamsburg to Philadelphia. The one
undertaking of this accomplished gentleman and officer that is espe-
cially interesting to the people of Western Virginia is the expedition
undertaken by him, when, on the 1st day of August, 1716, he set out
from Chelsea upon the famous expedition to the Blue Eidge
mountains.
The Virginia Colony of one hundred and five souls in 1607 had
grown to nearly one hundred thousand. Twenty-four counties are
to be found in the Colony, and the hardy pioneer was fast pushing
his way to the base of the Blue Eidge mountains, but of the country
beyond the Blue Eidge mountains notliing was known except the
indefinite accounts of Indian traders.
Governor Spotswood determined to explore this unknown region
and, leaving the home of his son-in-law at Chelsea, in August, 1716,
accompanied by a gay and gallant band, he began his journey
through a dense wilderness inhabited by beasts of prey and the cruel
savage, and after thirty-six days of incessant toil and fatigue, the
Governor and his party, on September 5, 1716, reached the sum-
mit of one of the highest peaks of the Blue Eidge mountains, at
Swift Eun Gap, Augusta county, Virginia.
18
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
What a spot ! What an occasion ! What must have been the feel-
ings experienced by these gallant knights, when for the first time
the beautiful Shenandoah was presented to their vision! The
inspiration of the occasion must have been full compensation for all
the toil and perseverance expended in the effort. Governor Spots-
wood, in commemoration of this expedition into the heart of the
savage wilderness, presented each of the company with a small
golden horse-shoe set with jewels, and this was the origin of the
order, "Knights of the Golden Horse-Shoe."
The inscription upon the golden horse-shoe was "Sic jurat trans-
cendere montes.'^ (Thus he swears to cross the mountains), and it
is stated that these mementoes were given to all who would accept
them, promising to comply with the terms of the inscription.
Spotswood Crossing the Blue Ridge.
Governor Spotswood and his company descended the western side
of the mountain into the valley, and, finding a ford, they crossed
the Shenandoah river and "took possession of the country for King
George the First of England." They crossed the Shenandoah river
on September 6th and called it the Euphrates.
Thus the first passage of the Blue Eidge into the Valley of
Virginia was made by Governor Spotswood at this time, but, as
early as 1710, a company of adventurers found and went to the
top of the highest mountain with their horses, but did not pass over
it into the valley, by reason of the lateness of the season. Abraham
Wood had visited the New Eiver section in the year 1654.
1738. In the year 1738 the House of Burgesses of Virginia
passed a bill for the formation of two countries west of the Blue
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 19
Eidge mountains, and accordingly Orange county was divided and
that part of Orange county west of the Blue Eidge mountains was
formed into two counties, called Frederick and Augusta counties.
Thus was opened to settlement a magnificent country of which
Washington county is a part, and as the history of Washington
county is inseparably connected with the early history of Augusta
county, I will here take leave of the general history of Virginia.
20 . Southwest Virginia, 17JiG-17SG.
CHAPTER II
Indians Living in Close Pkoximity to Southwest Virginia.
The discovery of America by Columbus in 1492 can be attrib-
uted to the pious zeal of the Queen of Spain to extend the bene-
fits of the religion of Eome to all manldnd, and to the search for
gold. It is a matter of history that the Queen of Spain, to enable
Columbus to explore the western seas, sacrificed many of the jewels
pertaining to her queenly estate.
And the Queen of Spain was but one of many emissaries of the
church, who, in their zeal, were ready, to brave tlie unknown seas
and to make any sacrifices to serve their master. With Columbus
came a number of priests, and with every ship that sailed from the
co-ast of Spain, France, Portugal and Italy, the missionaries of the
cross were to be numbered among the passengers, bound for Amer-
ica, determined to explore the New World, hunt out the inhabitants
thereof, and convert them' to their master. Thus, within a few years
after the discovery of America, priests were to be found in almost
every part of the New World, exploring the country and teaching
the Indians their blessed religion. The priesthood of Rome in
those early days were educated, energetic, observing men, as they
have ever been, and it is to this source that we must look for the
earliest histor}^ of our country and of the Indian inhabitants for
many years previous to the coming of the Anglo-Saxon race.
These early visitors to this portion of America preserved a history
of their times, and it is to be found in the archives of the govern-
ments of France, Spain and Portugal, and of the Church of
Rome. This investigation will not permit any inquiry extending
beyond the limits of that portion of Southwest Virginia included
within the bounds of Washington county.
In the year 1539 Hernando De Soto landed at Tampa, Florida,
with orders from the Court of Spain to form a settlement on the
seashore and to explore Florida to its westernmost limits.
The Spanish government at that time contended that Florida
included all that part of America extending from the Gulf of
Mexico on the south to Virginia on the north, and from the
Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific.
Southwest Virginia, llJ^G-nSG. 21
Pursuant to his authority De Soto, at the head of a thousand
nien, exploring the country, traveled in a northerly direction to the
home of the Appalaches, a tribe of Indians living on the banks of
a river in Georgia called by the Indians Witchlacooche ; thence,
continuing in a northerly direction, they passed near the present site
of Columbia, S. C, where they struck the Santee river, thenoe pass-
ing up the Saluda branch of the Santee, they came, for the first
time, to a country uninhabited, and found it difficult to obtain food
sufficient to sustain themselves, but sending out companies of men
to search for Indians, after some time a party of men returned
to camp accompanied by a few Indians, who, being questioned,
informed De Soto that to the north of them there lived a powerful
tribe of Indians on the Hogoheegee river (Tennessee river), to
which place they traveled. This tribe of Indians was called, at that
time, Cafitachique and was governed by a queen.
The historian of this expedition, Louis Hernandez De Biedma,
says : "We remained ten or twelve days in the Queen's village, and
then set off to continue our explorations of the country."
De Soto marched thence ton days in a northerly direction through
a mountainous country where but little food was to be found until
he reached a province called Xuala, which was thinly settled. Ho
then ascended to the source of the Great river,* which he supposed
was the St. Esprit. This information was furnished by De Biedma
to the King and council of the West Indies in 1544 and is now
in existence and fully authenticated.
To any one who will take the time and trouble to investigate this
matter it will be evident that De Soto and his followers explored
the country from Florida to the Queen's village, which must have
been on the Tennessee river near the present site of Knoxville,
Tennessee. Thence ascending the same to its sources they were, as
early as 1540, beyond question, visitors to the territory now included
within the boundaries of Washington county.
The course pursued and the time required, it has been aptly said,
confirm this opinion.
But a small part of the account of this trip of exploration has
been herein copied, but space will not permit much to be said. The
reader must not conclude from what has been said that De Soto
and his followers met with no resistance from the inhabitants of
*The Indians always spoke of the Tennessee river as the Great river.
23 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
the country through which they passed, for this same account de-
tails the incidents connected with many desperate battles between
the invaders and the invaded, and at no part of the journey did De
Soto meet such magnificent specimens of mankind or find greater
resistance than upon his arrival at the Queen's village on the Ten-
nessee and in his progress thence to the sources of the Great river.
De Biedma tells us that the inhabitants of Xuala were a hardy
race, living in log houses daubed with clay and very comfortable in
the winter season, but that during the summer months they usually
reposed in the open air, spending much of their time in hunting.
According to this same authority they used sharped-edged stones,
slings, bows, arrows and clubs in war and peace. Many evidences
of the instruments used by the Indians and the places of their
manufacture are to be found in Southwest Virginia at this date.
The inhabitants of Xuala lived, as did all the Indian inhabitants
south of the Potomac and Ohio rivers, in towns, but the towns of
the inhabitants of Xuala differed from those of most other tribes
of Indians in this, that their towns generally were so built as to
combine the requisites of a town and a fort.
These forts were circular and varied in size from three hun-
dred to six hundred and a thousand feet in diameter.
They were sometimes built of stone, and in other instances of
earth. The embankments were from six to ten feet high and in
many cases surrounded by ditches of requisite width and depth.
They were used as towns as well as forts. Many fragments of
carved stone and earthenware are to be found near those old forts.
The remnants of these forts or towns can be found in Southwest
Virginia at this time.
In Castle's Woods, Eussell county, as well as on the farm of T. P.
Hendricks and at other places in this county, the evidences of
former Indian towns are clearly perceptible.
A stone fort of great size formerly stood in Abb's Valley, Taze-
well county, and what is spoken of as a remarkable fort is to be
found on the farm formerly owned by a Mr. Crockett near Tazewell
C. H., having evident traces of trenches and something like a draw-
bridge.
An Indian town stood upon the Byars farm in the upper end of
this county, and the Indian name thereof is preserved : "Kilmack-
ronan."
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 23
These forts and other eyidences of Indian occupancy must be
attributed to the men occupying Xuala at the time of the visit of De
Soto in 1540, for they cannot be the product of the Cherokees.
since an examination of the age of trees found growing on these
forts is sufficient to show that they were there before the coming
of the Cherokees, and, for this better reason, these forts were not
built after the manner of the Cherokees.
From a perusal of the preceding pages it is evident that the
land of the Xualas of three hundred and sixty years ago was none
other than Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee, and that it was
peopled by a hardy, ingenious, war-like race.
It is proper to state here that many historians repudiate the idea
that De Soto visited Southwest Virginia in 1540, but it is the
opinion of this writer that he did visit this section at that time,
and this opinion is given after a careful perusal of all available
authorities.
We know nothing further of the people who inhabited Xuala, or
Southwest Virginia in 1540. A tradition existed among the Chero-
kees that these people were driven from Southwest Virginia by
the Cherokees some time in the ages preceding the coming of the
white man, but no authentic information exists by which their exit
can be noted.
Captain Henry Batte with a company of rangers, by direction of
Governor Berkley, crossed the Blue Eidge mountains at "Wood's
Gap now in Floyd county, in 1671 and came near to the habitations
of a tribe of Indians living on a river flowing westward, said by the
Indian guides to be the makers and venders of salt to Ihe other
Indian tribes, and Trembling, in many particulars, the inhabitants
of Xuala as described by De Biedma, and it is rn^re than prob-
able that the early inhabitants of Southwest Virginia were not
driven from their homes until after 1671.
As far as I can ascertain, the Indian inhabitants of Southwest
Virginia have been Xualans, Cherokees and Shawnese.
Some time between the years 1671 and 1685 the Xualans were
driven from Southwest Virginia by the Cherokee tribe of Indians,
and this tribe is closely identified with the settlement of Southwest
Virginia.
Adair, an early writer, says that this tribe of Indians derive their
name from Chee-ra "fire," which is their reputed lower heaven.
24 Southwest Virginia, 17 Ji 6-17 80.
The origin of this tribe is not known, but a tradition existed
among them that when they crossed the Alleghanies they found a
part of the Creek Nation inhabitating this countr}^, and it may be
that the Creek Indians were the inhabitants of ancient Xuala.
The Cherokees were the mountaineers of ahoriginal America;
they loved their homes, were brave to a fault, and were never happy
except when engaged in war.
This nation and many of their villages will be frequently men-
tioned in connection with the early exploration and settlement of
Southwest Virginia, for many times did our ancestors suffer from
their vigor and enterprise.
This tribe of Indians gave names to most of the rivers in South-
west Virginia, and it may be proper to here detail the aboriginal
names of the rivers of Southwest Virginia.
The Holston river from its source to the junction of the French
Broad, was called the Hogoheegee, and from thence to the mouth
of the Little Tennessee river it was known as the Cootcla.
The early maps of this section of America made by the French
explorers gave to the Holston river the name of the Cherokee river ;
to the Clinch they gave the name of Shawanon, and to the same
river the English gave the name of Shawanoa, and the Indian
name for the Clinch river was Pellissippi.
The Cherokees were not long permitted to enjoy the fruits of
their conquest, for as early as 1672 the confederacy of the Six
Nations conquered the Illinois and Shawnese Indians, the latter
tribe being a part of the Six Nations.
In 1685 they added to their conquests the Miamis and carried
their victorious arms to the Mississippi and south as far as Georgia,
a vast territory twelve hundred miles in length and six hundred
miles in breadth, and, in doing so, destroyed whole nations of In-
dians of whom no record was found by the English.
The Cherokees were driven south of the Tennessee, and settled
upon the Savannah and in the territory south of the Tennessee, and
there made their homes until moved by the Anglo-Saxon settlers
about one hundred years thereafter.
Thus the vast extent of territory lying south and east of the Ohio
river and including Southwest Virginia was conquered, but not
occupied, by the confederacy of the Six Nations, and its inhabitants
were driven into other countries. It thus became a vast wilderness,
Southwest Virgmia, 1746-1786. 25
never thereafter to be occupied until the coming of the white man,
except by roving bands of Indians while himting, or in passing from
their habitations in the south to the Indian towns and villages in
Ohio.
This vast park was filled ^vith the finest game in great quantities,
and, for more than one hundred years previous to its settlement by
the Anglo-Saxon, it was jointly used, as if by common consent, as
a hunting ground by the Cherokees, Shawnese and Six Nations, but
the Cherokees were compelled to admit the superior title of the Six
Nations to the sovereignty of the soil, which they did by frequent
gifts of game killed within the territory.
Some writers, in explanation of the absence of the Indians from
this section of America at the time of the early explorations of
the white man, give the following as a tradition of the Cherokees
and Shawnese: "tbat in so favored a land, where man's natural
wants are so fully satisfied, there could be no community of peace
and happiness^, that with such ease to the body and disquiet to the
soul the councils of man must always overflow with the vanities
of argument and the pride of innate egotism; so the tradition was,
that once of old there was a delegated assemblage of the chiefs of
the Indian tribes for a conference with the Great Spirit, at which
conference the Great Spirit detailed certain great calamities that
had befallen them in the paradise of Hogoheegee, which were trace-
able to the causes named above, and thereupon the Great Spirit
ordered all their nations to remeve beyond certain boundaries, out
of this Eden, which the Great Spirit informed them was too easy
of life for their content and happiness and their future security."
Thereupon this vast empire was consigned to the peaceful domin-
ion of nature, and all the lands upon the waters from the Holston to
the headwaters of the Kentucky and Cumberland rivers were with-
out permanent inhabitants.
The first cause above assigned was the true cause of the uninhab-
ited condition of Southwest Virginia, the enmity between the Chero-
kees and Shawnese. This enmity was such as to deter both tribes
from any considerable aggressions on this territor}^, the middle
ground between the nations. Many battles were fought between
these two nations, and, even so late as the summer of 1768, a des-
26 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
perate battle was fought between the Cherokees and Shawnese near
Eieh Mountain,* in Tazewell county, Virginia.
Early in the summer of 1768 about two hundred Cherokee In-
dians camped near a lick in that part of Southwest Virginia to
spend the summer in hunting.
They were soon disturbed by the appearance of several hundred
Shawnese Indians, their deadly enemies.
The Shawnese chief immediately sent orders to the Cherokees to
leave the lick and the hunting grounds, but his messenger was sent
back with a defiant answer by the Cherokees and both parties began
to prepare for battle. The Cherokees retired to the top of Rich
Montain and there threw up, before night, a breastwork consisting
of an embankment running along the top of the mountain about
eighty yards and then turning off down the mountain side, the em-
bankment being three or four feet high and running east and west.
The battle was opened the evening of the first day, but after
some fighting the Shawnese withdrew and made preparations to
begin the attack the following morning. It is said that long before
day the fiendish yells of the warriors might be heard echoing
over the rugged cliffs and deep valleys of the surrounding country.
Day came, and for the space of half an hour, a deathlike stillness
reigned on the mountain top and side. With the first rays of the
rising sun a shout ascended the skies as if all the wild animals in
the woods had broken forth in all their most terrifying notes.
The sharp crack of rifles and the ringing of tomahawks against
each other, the screams of women and children and the groans of
the dying now filled the air around.
Both parties were well armed and the contest was nearly equal,
the Shawnese having most men, while the Cherokees had the advan-
tage of their breastworks. Through the entire day the battle raged,
and when night closed in, both parties built fires and camped on
the ground.
During the night the Cherokees sent to two white men then in the
vicinity for powder and lead, which they furnished.
When the sun rose the next morning the battle was renewed with
the same spirit in which it had been fought on the previous day. In
a few hours, however, the Shawnese were compelled to retire. The
loss on both sides was great. A large pit was dug and a common
*Bickley's History of Tazewell County.
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 27
grave received those who had fallen in this the last battle fought
between the red men in this section of America. The battle-ground,
breastwork and great grave are still to be seen.
At the time of the earlier explorations of Southwest Virginia the
nearest permanent Indian settlements were to be found south of the
Tennessee river.
Many vestiges of an earlier and numerous population were found
in Southwest Virginia and, in many instances, are still to be seen,
indicating a state of civilization far in advance of that found among
the Indians of that day.
Tlie first hunters and explorers in their many exped^itions
throughout all this vast territory never found a single wigwam cr
Indian village., It was nothing more than the common hunting
ground of the Cherokees and Shawnese.
Along the valley of what is known as Southwest Virginia lay the
usual route of travel between the Southern and Northern Indians,
whether engaged in peaceful intercourse or warlike expeditions, and
by this same path they traveled when on the chase or their migra-
tions.
Several considerations prompted the Indians to adopt this course
in their travelings, viz. : such as the ease with which the mountains
could be crossed, the abundance of game, the absence of swamps and
large streams of impassable water and the absence of hostile inhabi-
tants, and these same considerations led to the early settlement of
this section and the adoption of this route of travel by the early
Scotchf^rish and English settlers of Kentucky and Tennessee.
One of these routes or Indian trails was nearly on the present
McAdam road passing Eoanoke, Va., thence to New Eiver near
Inglis' Ferry, thence, following the same McAdam road, to Seven
Mile Ford, thence to the left of the present main road and following
near to the present location of the same by Abingdon until it strikes
the North Fork of Holston river a few miles above the Long
Island of Holston river, crossing the same at the old ford of the
North Fork and on into Tennessee until it connected with the great
warpath of the Creeks. Near Wolf Hills, now Abingdon, another
route or trail came in from the northwest. This trail from the
northwest pursued nearly the route traveled by the early settlers to
Kentucky, crossing the mountains at Cumberland Gap. A more
28 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
minute description of this trail will be given in another and more
appropriate place in this book.
This trail crossed the first above described Indian trail at a point
on West Main street where the Eussell road leaves Main street. The
statement has been often made that an Indian trail followed the
northwest bank of the JSTorth Fork of Holston river through this
count}', but I am not satisfied that such was a fact.
Bickley, in his history of Tazewell county, says the principal
Indian trails through Tazewell county led through the Clinch Val-
ley, but after the whites began to settle, these Indian trails all led
from the Ohio river. One of these trails led up the Indian Eidge
(now on the boundary between Virginia and West Virginia) till
opposite the Trace Fork of Tug river; it then crossed over to that
braiich and, keeping into the lowest gap of the hills, led into Abb's
Valley.
Another trail, afterwards much used by the whites, left the
Indian Eidge and struck Tug river at the mouth of Clear Fork
creek, thence up that creek till it fell over on a branch emptying
into tlie Dry Fork of Tug river. It then followed that stream to its
head and passed through Eoark's Gap, near Maxwell's, in Taze-
well county.
Another trail cauie up the Louisa Fork of Sandy river, leading
into the settlements on Clinch river, now in Eussell and Tazewell
counties. It is worthy of notice tliat these trails always crossed
the mountains and ridges at the lewdest gaps to be found, and
frequently, built in these gaps, are to be found monuments of
rock piled up oftentimes to considerable height. Several of these
monuments may be seen in this coimty, in Little Moccasin Gap, on
the Byars farm on Middle Fork, on the Mahaffey farm on South
Fork, and another in Eoark's Gap, in Tazewell county.
Eamsey, in his Annals of Tennessee, states that the first described
Indian trail after leaving Seven Mile Ford bore to the left and fol-
lowed the Middle and South Forks of Holston river until it crossed
the North Fork of Holston river at the Old Ford above Long
Island in Tennessee.
In making this statement the historian may be correct, and some
evidences yet remain that might be given to sustain this statement,
notably a small Indian mound and the vestiges of an old Indian
village (Kilmackronan), on the north and south sides of the Middle
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 29
Fork of Holston river, where the same passes through the farm
formerly owned by Captain James Byars near Glade Spring, and a
small Indian mound on the farm formerly owned by J. Gr. Mahaffey
about six miles southeast of Abingdon.
But we cannot admit this statement to be coj-rect, because the
route as described is inconsistent with the habits of the Indians,
besides, it does not confonn to the course pursued by the early set-
tlers of this section of Virginia.
The Indian in traveling (almost without a single exception, as
far as I can ascertain) followed that course of travel which would,
as far as possible, avoid the crossing of water, and of course he
followed the highlands near the headwaters of the creeks and rivers.
It is evident to every man conversant with the topography of this
county that he would have passed through this county near Glade
Spring, Meadow View and Abingdon.
It is generally accepted as true that the early hunters and explor-
ers in this, as well as other sections of Virginia and the United
States, followed, almost without a single deviation, the trails made
and used by the Indians. And to this cause may be attributed the
fact that many of the public roads of this section when first estab-
lished were located over the steepest hills and ridges to be found in
our country.
In other words, the Indian made his trail over the hills to avoid
the waters ; the white man adopted the Indian trail as his road
becaiise it was already open, and possibly, to some extent, for the
same reason as the Indian, to avoid crossing water.
We know that the early hunters and settlers traveling through
and settling in this section, after leaving Seven Mile Ford passed
througli the Byars farm near Glade Spring, thence near Meadow
View and through the location of Abingdon of the present day, and
into Tennessee.
Another statement made by Eamsey as to this same Indian trail
is frequently challenged, and for very good reason.
Ramsey states that this Indian trail crossed the North Fork of
Holston river above Long Island as above stated, while from all
present indications this trail crossed the South Fork of Holston
river at Long Island.
At least evidences of an Indian trail and ford are to be seen
near Long Island at this time, and it is not reasonable to believe
30 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
that the Indians would cross the Xorth Fork of the Holston river
and then the Holston river proper to reach his towns and home,
when he could cross the South Fork of Holston once and reach his
home.
While Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee were unoccupied
by the Indians at the time of the early settlements, still it may not
be amiss to give briefly a description of the Indian tribes that pre-
ceded our forefathers and afterwards gave them so much trouble in
their first undertakings.
As to the remote Indian inhabitants of this section of the Ameri-
can Continent, nothing authentic is known beyond the evidences of
their occupancy to be gathered from tumuli scattered throughout
the country and the remains found in close proximity thereto.
These remains indicate the existence, at some distant time, of a
dense population, civilized to a great extent, and it is not improb-
able that at a time in the past all this section was the seat of a
civilization that would have compared favorably with that of Greece
and Eome.
The Cherokee Indians Icnew nothing further of these vestiges
than that their forefathers found them here, and they considered
them the evidences of a numerous population far advanced in civili-
zation.
The modern Indian held in great veneration these evidences of
an extinct tribe, and never used them save for religious purposes.
The piles of stones often found scattered throughout the country,
generally to be found in the gaps of the mountains and ridges, are
believed to be the work of modern Indians. The modern Indian
was of an exceedingly superstitious turn, as all barbarians or
heathen nations have been.
It has been for all time not uncommon to find, in heathen coun-
tries, similar heaps of stone erected by the inhabitants at some
particular spot, as an offering to an evil spirit, who, according to
their superstitions, would afflict or bless the passer-by.
A pile of stone, such as indicated, may be seen near the main
turnpike road as it passes through Little Moccasin Gap.
The Indian tribes that molested the early settlers in this section
were the Cherokees and the Shawnese.
Adair, an early Indian trader, and later historian, in describing
the Indian and his passion for revenge, says:
'Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 31
"I have known them to go a thousand miles for the purpose of
revenge, in pathless woods, over hills and mountains, through large
cane swamps full of grape-vines and briars, over broad lakes, rapid
rivers and deep creeks and all the way endangered by poisonous
snakes, if not by the rambling and lurking enemy, while, at the
same time, they were exposed to the extremities of the heat and
cold, the vicissitudes of the season, to hunger and thirst, both by
chance and their religiously scanty method of living when at war,
to fatigue and other difficulties. Such is their revengeful temper
that all these things they contemn as imaginary trifles, if they are
so happy as to get the scalp of their enemy."
And this record is preserved by a man who spoke from his
experience with the Cherokee Indians, the one tribe that gave the
early settlers of this section more trouble than all the Indian tribes
combined.
CHEROKEES.
The Cherokee tribe of Indians, at the time of the. settlement of
Southwest Virginia, inhabited one of the most attractive sections
of the American Continent, occupying the banks of the Catawba,
Savannah, Yadkin and Tennessee rivers on the east and south and
several of the feeders of the Tennessee on the west.
There were no fortresses to be found among them. Their settle-
ments were rude huts scattered irregularly along some water way
convenient to good pasture land and hunting and fishing grounds.
They usually had small clearings which were cultivated by the
women and children in Indian corn and beans.
But little of the history of the Cherokees can be gathered from
their traditions. The existence of this tribe of Indians was noted by
the historian of the expedition of De Soto when traveling in the
South, and it is said that they came originally from east of the
Alleghany mountains. Their principal town or capital city was
Choto, located about five miles from the ruins of Fort Loudon, in
Tennessee.
They were the mountain people of America and loved their homes
and their liberties.
They frequently aided the early settlers of this portion of America
in their wars with the French and English, a company of Indians
from this tribe having participated in the siege of Fort Du Quesne
32 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
under Captain Pearls, but much oftener did they carry death into
the homes of tlie early settlers of the Carolinas and Virginia.
This tribe, previous to 1769, were numerous and exceedingly
quarrelsome and arrogant.
At this time they quarreled with the Chickasaw Indians and
undertook an invasion of their country, but were overwhelmed by
the Chickasaws after a great battle at the Chickasaw old fields.
This overwhelming defeat occurred at the same time that Arthur
Campl)ell, William Edmiston, and many other ' hardy pioneers
fii-st pitched their tents on the waters of the Holston and Clinch,
and there can be no doubt that this occurrence contributed much to
the rapid settlement of this section of Virginia.
For thirty years following the advent of the first settlers into this
country the Cherokees killed and scalped the inhabitants at every
opportunity.
The population of tliis tribe in 1735 was considerable. Adair
says that they had sixty^four populous towns, and their fighting
men numbered ahove six thousand..
In the year 1776 the number of warriors pertaining to this tribe
was two thousand four hundred and ninety-one.
This h-lhe of Indians now occupy a part of the Indian Territory.
It will be remembered that the Cherokees used principally the val-
leys of the Holston in their hunting expeditions and seldom visited
the valleys of the Clinch.
SIIAWNESE.
But little can be said of this Indian tribe save that it was known
as a wandering nation.
At times in their history they occupied territory in almost all
sections of the country east of the Mississippi river and south of
the Lakes, but at the time when this tribe gave trouble to our
ancestors their homes were on the Wabash and Miami rivers, where
they built many villages. Their principal town, called "Piquo,^' was
the birthplace of the great Tecumseh.
This tribe had a tradition respecting their origin. They believed
their fathers crossed the ocean from the East under the guidance of
a leader of the Turtle tribe, one of their original subdivisions, and
that they walked into the sea, the waters of which parted, and thus
passed over on the bottom to this -land.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 33
This tribe of Indians were responsible for many of the murders
and outrages suffered by the early settlers on the Clinch and many
times on the Holston, the Indians coming by the trails through
Cumberland Gap and the trails coming into Tazewell county pre-
viously described.
The population of this tribe in 1735 did not, according to Adair,
exceed four hundred and fifty souls.
This tribe of Indians assisted the British in the wars of 1776
and 1812, and in the latter struggle did effective service for their
British allies.
In 1817 they ceded their lands in Ohio to the United States and
were soon confined to a small reservation west of the Mississippi
river.
34 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
CHAPTEE III
Eaely Explorations of Southwest Virginia by the White
Man.
From the time of the first settlement at Jamestown in 1607, the
English Colony had grown rapidly and had expanded until their
western borders were in view of the Blue Eidge. With the usual
vigor and enterprise of the Anglo-Saxon, we find, in the year 1641,
a number of the citizens of Virginia petitioning the House of Bur-
gesses for permission to undertake the discovery of a new river of
land west and southerly from the Appomattox, and, in March, 1642,
we find the House of Burgesses passing an act granting such per-
mission. The act is as follows :
"Forasmuch as Walker Austin, Eice Hoe, Joseph Johnson and
Walter Chiles, for themselves and such others as they shall think
fitt to joyn with them, did petition in the Assembly in June 1641
for leave and encouragement to undertake the discovery of a new
river of unknowne land bearing west southerly from Appomattake
river. Be it enacted and confirmed, that they and every one of them
and whom they shall admit shall enjoy and possess to them, their
heirs, executors, administrators or assigns all profit whatsoever they
in their particular adventure can make unto themselves by such
discovery aforesaid, for fourteen years after the date of the said
month of January, 1641, provided there be reserved and paid into
his Majesty's use by them' that shall be appointed to receive them,
the fifth part of Eoyal Mines whatsoever ; provided also, that if they
shall think fit to employ more than two or three men in the said
discovery they shall then do it by commission from the Governor of
the Councill."*
It is well to preserve this the earliest known evidence of the desire
of any man to hunt out the very country we now occupy.
The names of a portion of these first daring spirits, Austin, John-
son and Chiles, afterwards became familiar to our own country,
and while no evidence is at hand to establish the fact, yet it is more
than probable that these men by their efforts made possible the
future success of Walker, Draper, Inglis, Wood, and others.
^1 Hen. Stat., p. 262.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 35
The record of the next effort to reach this portion of the wilder-
ness by the enterprising citizens of Eastern Virginia is to be found
in an act of the House of Burgesses of Virginia passed in July,
1653j more than a hundred years before a permanent settlement
was effected on the waters of the Clinch or Holston rivers.
The Act is as follows. Passed July, 1653 :
"Whereas, an act was made in the Assembly, 1642, for encour-
agement of discoveries to the westward and southward of this
country, granting them all profits arising thereby for fourteen
years, which act is since discontinued and made void, it is by
this Assembly ordered that Colonel William Clayborne, Esq., and
Captain Henry Fleet, they and their associates vidth them, either
jointly or severally, may discover, and shall enjoy such benefits,
profits and trades for fourteen years as they shall find out in places
where no English ever have been and discovered, nor have had par-
ticular trade, and to take up such lands by patents proving their
rights as they shall think good : nevertheless, not excluding others
after their choice from taking up land and planting in these new
discovered places, as in Virginia now versed. The like order is
granted to Major Abram Wood and his associates."
The three gentlemen, William Clayborne, Henry Fleet and Abra-
ham Wood, mentioned in this act, each represented a shire in the
Virginia House of Burgesses, and were intent, no doubt, upon the
acquisition of wealth and the development of the country.
We have no information that leads us to believe that any of the
persons named in the preceding act, with the exception of Colo-
nel Abraham Wood, at any time made an effort to accomplish the
purpose of that act.
Dr. Hale, in his book 'entitled "Trans- Alleghany Pioneers,'^
makes the following statement :
"The New river was first discovered and named in 1654 by Colo-
nel Abraham Wood, who dwelt at the falls of the Appomattox, now
the site of Petersburg, Va.^'
Being of an adventurous and speculative turn, he got from the
Governor of Virginia a concession to explore the country and open
up trade with the Indians to the west. There is no record as to
the particular route he took, but as the line of adventure, explora-
tion and discovery was then all east of the mountains, it is prob-
36 Southwest Virginia, 171^0-1786.
able that he first struck the river not far from the Blue Kidge and
near the present Virginia and North Carolina lines.''
I do not know from what source Dr. Hale obtained this infor-
mation, and I give it for what it is worth.
It is reasonable to believe that Colonel Wood made this trip,
and, to support this view, three circumstances may be mentioned.
First. The House of Burgesses of Virginia had authorized Colo-
nel Wood, along with others, in July of the preceding year, to
discover a new river of unknown land where no English had ever
been or discovered. Secondly. A gap in the Blue Ridge, lying
between the headwaters of Smith river, a branch of the Dan, in
Patrick county, and of Little river, a branch of New river, in Floyd
county, is to this day called Wood's Gap. Thirdly. The present
New river was known at first as Wood's river. It is known that
at the time Thomas Batts and a company of men acting under the
authority of Colonel Wood visited this section in the year 1671,
Wood's Gap and New river had been previously visited and named
by Colonel Wood.
In the year 1671, Thomas Batts and several other persons
traveled from the falls of the Appomattox, the present site of Pe-
tersburg, Va., acting under a commission from Governor Berkley,
to explore the country west of the Blue Ridge mountains and the
South Sea.
It is worthy of notice that at the time this expedition was under-
taken it was believed that the waters flowing westward beyond the
Appalachian mountains emptied into the South Sea.
This was the first effort made to explore the country west of the
Blue Ridge, of which any record has been preserved.
A journal of this expedition was made by Thomas Batts, one of
the company. The first entry in this journal is as follows :
"A commission being granted the Hon. Maj. Gen. Wood for
ye finding out of the ebbing and flowing of ye waters behind the
mountains in order to the discovery of the South Sea: Thomas
Batts, Thomas Wood, Robert Fallen, accompanied by Perachute, a
great man of the Appomattox Indians, and Jack Nesan, formerly
servant to Majr. Genl. Wood, with five horses, set forward from
Appomattox town in Va., and about eight of the clock in the morn-
ing being Fryday Septr. 1st. 1671, and traveling about forty miles,
took up their quarters and found they had traveled from Okene-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 37
chee path due west: They traveled for twenty-five days, a part of
the time through that portion of Virginia, near the present line
between this State and North Carolina, but when they reached the
foot of the Alleghany Mountains where the same merges into the
Blue Eidge, now in Floyd Co. Va., they turned to the north west
at a low place in the said mountain known as Wood's G-ap; and
after some time they came to a river which Genl. Wood had named
Wood's Eiver.* This river for many years thereafter was known
as Wood's Eiver, and many of the early patents in that section
of the country describe the lands as located upon Wood's Eiver."
The entry in this diary of date the 16th of Sept. says : "About
ten of the clock we set forward and, after we had traveled about
ten miles, one of the Indians killed a deer; presently after they
had a sight of a curious river like the Thames agt. Chilcey (Chel-
sea), which having a fall yt made a great noise, whose course was
N. and so as they supposed, ran W. about certain pleasant mountains
which they saw to the westward. At this point they took up their
quarters, their course having been W. by N. At this point they
found Indian fields with cornstalks in them. They marked the
trees with the initials of the company, using branding irons, and
made proclamation in these words: 'Long live King Charles ye 2nd.
king of England, France, Scotland, Ireland and Virginia and all
the terrytories thereunto belonging, defender of the faith.'
"Wlien they came to ye river-side they found it better and
broader than they expected, fully as broad as the Thames over agt,
Maping, ye falls much like the falls of the James Eiver in Va., and
imagined by the water marks it fiowed there about three feet. It
was then ebbing water. They set up a stick by the water, but
found it ebbed very slowly."
At this point their Indian guides stopped, and refused to go any
farther, saying that there dwelt near this place a numerous and
powerful tribe of Indians that made salt and sold it to the other
tribes, and that no one who entered into their towns had ever been
able to escape. Thereupon the trip was abandoned and they
started on their return to their homes without having accomplished
the object of the exploration, to-wlt: the finding of the South Sea.
But the journal adds that when they were on the top of the hill
they took a prospect as far as they could see and saw westwardly
*Now New River.
38 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
over certain delightful hills a fog arise, and a glimmering light as
from water, and supposed they might be from some great bog.
Many writers suppose that this exploring party, after reaching
the New river, descended the same to the falls of the Kanawha,
but it is more than probable that after they reached the river they
ascended the same, and the stopping point mentioned in the diary
was in Southwest Virginia, and near where the New river first
enters Virginia.
Upon the return of this company to their homes Governor Berk-
ley was very much interested in their report, but strange as it
may seem to the reader, no further attempts were made by au-
thority of the Government of Virginia for forty years to explore
the country west of the mountains.
It will be seen from' the journal of Thomas Batts that he and
his associates, and, beyond a doubt. Colonel Abraham Wood an-
ticipated, by more than half a century. Governor Spotswood and
his Knights of the Golden Horse-Shoe, in the exploration and dis-
covery of the country west of the Blue Ridge mountains.
The next effort made to explore the region west of the moun-
tains, of which we have any account, occurred in 1716, forty-five
years after the journey made by Thomas Batts, above described,
and sixty years subsequent to the visit of Colonel Abraham Wood.
In the month of August, 1716, Governor Alexander Spotswood,
with several members of his staff, left Williamsburg by coach and
proceeded to G^rmania, where he left his coach and proceeded on
horseback. At Germania this party was supplemented by a num-
ber of gentlemen, their retainers, a company of rangers, and four
Meherrin Indians — about fifty persons in all.
They journeyed by way of the upper Eappahannock, and on the
thirty-sixth day out, being September 5, 1716, they scaled the Blue
Eidge at Swift Run Gap, now in Augusta county.
John Fontaine, a member of this company, has left a journal of
this expedition, and therein thus describes what occurred when
they reached the summit of the Blue Ridge: "We drank King
George's health and all the royal family's at the very top of the
Appalachian mountains."
The company then descended the western side of the mountain,
and, reaching the Shenandoah river, they encamped upon its banks.
Fontaine thus preserves an account of what occurred :
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 39
"The Governor had graving irons, but could not grave anything,
the stones were so hard. I graved my name on a tree by the river-
side, and the Governor hurried a bottle with a paper enclosed on
which he writ that he took possession of this place in the name
and for King Geo. 1st. of England. We had a good dinner, and
after it we got the men together, and loaded all their arms, and
we drank the King's health in champaign and fired a volley, the
Princess's health in Burgundy and fired a volley, and in claret
and fired a volley. We drank the Governor's health and fired an-
other volley. We had several sorts of liquers', viz. Virginia Eed
Wine and White Wine, Esquebaugh, brandy, shrub, rum, cham-
paign, cavory, punch water, cider, etc.
"We called the highest mountain Mount George and the one we
crossed over ]\Iount Spotswood."
Governor Spotswood, from the fertility of the soil, gave the
name of Euphrates to the river (now Shenandoah), and he be-
lieved the same emptied into the great lakes and flowed northward.
The Governor, upon his return to Williamsburg, instituted the
Order of the Golden-Shoe, and presented to each of the gentlemen
accompanying him a small horse-shoe made of gold inscribed with
the motto : Sic jurat transcendere monies, "Thus he swears to cross
the mountains."
Governor Spotswood, in a letter written in 1716, says: "The
chief aim of my expedition over the great mountains in 1716 was
to satisfy myself whether it was practicable to come to the lakes."
The country thus described was a part of Sussex county, the
western boundary of which was undefined. Spotsylvania was
formed from Sussex in 1720, Orange from Spotsylvania in 1734,
all of said counties including the territory now within the bounds
of this county.
All this information is necessary to a history of Washington
county, because Washington county was formed from the territory
we are now dealing with, and, for the better reason, that the pro-
moters of our early settlements and the founders of our early gov-
ernment came from the Valley of Virginia.
In the year 1726, two men named Mackey and Sailings explored
the Valley of Virginia.
John Peter Sailings, one of the two explorers of the valley
40 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
above mentioned, was ca^jtured by the Indians and passed through
this immediate section as early as 1726.
Withers, in his history entitled "Border Warfare/' thus de-
scribes the captivity of Sailings :
"Sailings," he says, "was taken to the country now known as
Tennessee, where he remained for some years. In company with
a party of Cherokees, he went on a hunting expedition to the salt
licks of Kentucky and was there captured by a band of Illinois
Indians, with Mdiom the Cherokees were at war. He was taken to
Kaskaskia, and adopted into the family of a squaw, whose son
had been killed. While with these Indians he several times ac-
companied them down the Mississippi river, below the mouth of
the Arkansas, and once to the Gulf of Mexico.
The Spaniards in Louisiana, desiring an interpreter, purchased
him of his Indian mother, and some of them took him to Canada.
He was there redeemed by the French Governor of that province,
who sent him to the Dutch settlement in New York, whence he
made his way home after an absence of six years.
The earliest visit to this section of Virginia by an Anglo-Saxon
of which we have any record or knowledge was made by Dority, a
citizen of Eastern Virginia, who in the year 1690 visited the Chero-
kee Indians in their home, south of the Little Tennessee, and
traded wdth them. There can be no reasonable doubt that from
a very early period, long preceding the making of a permanent
settlement by the wdiite man in this section, many of the citizens
of Virginia living east of the mountains carried on, in many in-
stances, an active trade with the Indians living south of the Little
Tennessee and in Kentucky,
This section was uninhabitated by the Indians for many years
previous to the explorations of the white man, and the wilderness
was full of game of almost all kinds. Their flesh was valuable,
and the skins and furs taken in one season by a single hunter would
bring many hundreds of dollars, and thus many daring hunters
were induced to visit this section long before any white man thought
of settling the lands.
In confirmation of this idea Mr. Vaughan, of Amelia county,
Va., who died in the year 1801, was employed about the year 1740
to go as a packman with a number of Indian traders to the Chero-
kee nation.
Southwest Virginia, 17 Jf 6-17 86. 41
The last hunter's cabin he saw as he traveled from Amelia
county, Va., to East Tennessee was on Otter river, a branch of
Staunton river, now in Bedford county. The route he traveled
was an old trading path following closely the location of the Buck-
ingham road to a point where it strikes the Stage Eoad in Bote-
tourt county; thence nearly upon the ground which the Stage
Road occupies, crossing ISTew Eiver at Inglis' Ferry; thence to
Seven Mile Ford on the Holston; thence to the left of the road
which formed the old Stage Road; thence on to the North Fork
of Holston, above Long Island in Tennessee, crossing it where
the Stage Road formerly crossed it, and on into the heart of Ten-
nessee.
This hunter's trail, or Indian trace, was an old path when he
first saw it, and he continued to travel the same until 1754, trad-
ing with the Indians.
In the year 1730, Jolm and Isaac Van Meter obtained from Gov-
ernor Gooch, of Virginia, a patent for forty thousand acres of land
to be located in the lower valley, and this warrant was sold in 1731
to Joist Hite, of Pennsylvania, who, in 1732, brought his family
and sixteen other families and located a few miles soiith of the
present site of Winchester, Va., and this is generally believed to
be the first settlement by a white man west of the Blue Ridge.
Emigration to this new land was rapid, and soon reached beyond
the confines of Hite's possessions.
About the time of the Hite settlement John Lewis, Peter Sal-
lings and Mackey made settlements in the valley. Lewis
settled on Lewis' creek near the present site of Staunton, Sailings,
at the forks of James river and Mackey, at Buffalo Gap.
Within less than one year the population of the country near
the settlement made by Lewis was considerable, so rapid was the
migration to the new land.
The early settlers in this portion of Virginia had to contend
with titles obtained by individuals and companies for large tracts
of land, and such grantees were usually favorites of the King or
of the King's councillors.
On the 6th of September, 1736, William Gooch, Lieutenant-Gov-
ernor of Virginia, issued a patent for the "Manor of Beverly,"
covering one hundred and eighteen thousand and ninety-one acres
of land lying in the county of Orange between the great mountains
42 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
and on the River Sherando, and on September 7, 1736, William
Beverlj^^of Essex, became the owner of the entire grant..
This patent covered most of the fine lands in the Valley of Vir-
ginia near Staunton and Waynesboro, and soon thereafter Gov-
ernor Gooch granted Benjamin Borden -^tfe hundred thousand acres
of land situated south of Beverly Manor and on the waters of the
James and Shenandoah rivers.
Each of the grants above described was to become absolute, pro-
vided the patentees succeeded in settling a given number of families
thereon in the time named in the grant, and as a result the paten-
tees, Hite, Beverly and Borden, solicited and obtained settlers
from America and Europe.
Benjamin Borden, upon the receipt of his grant, immediately
visited England, and in 1737 returned with a hundred families,
among whom were the McDowells, Crawfords, MeClures, Alex-
anders, Walkers, Moores, Matthews and many others, the found-
ers of many of Virginia's distinguished families.
In 1738, the counties of Frederick and Augusta were formed out
of Orange. The territories embraced within these two counties in-
cluded all of Virginia west of the Blue Ridge and was, almost with-
out exception, a howling wilderness occupied by the Indians and
wild beasts. It is evident from the statement contained in the act
establishing Augusta county that there had been a rapid and con-
siderable increase of the population in the valley.
The act establishing the county of Augusta provided that the
organization of the county should take place when the Governor
and Council should think there was a sufficient number of inhabi-
tants for appointing jiistices of the peace and other officers and
creating courts therein.
While the act establishing Augusta county was passed in 1738,
the county was not organized until 1745. The first court assem-
bled at Staunton on December 9, 1745, at which time the following
magistrates were sworn in, having been previously commissioned y
by the Governor of Virginia — viz. : James Patton^, John Buchanan,
George Robinson, James Bell, Robert Campbell, John Lewis, John
Brown, Peter Scholl, Robert Poa^^, John Findley, Richard Woods,
John Christian, Robert Craven, John Pickens, Andrew Pickens,""
Thomas Lewis,. Hugh Thompson, John Anderson,'' Robert Cun-
ningham, James Kerr and Adam Dickenson.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 43
James Patton was commissioned high sheriff, John Madison,
clerk, and Thomas Lewis, surveyor of the county.
It is worthy of note that James Patton, the first sheriff of Au-
gusta county, was the first man to survey and locate lands within
the boundaries of Washington county as originally formed, and the
land by him acquired composed a considerable part of the best lands
within this county.
The idea of offering the dissenters from the Church of England
inducements to settle the lands west of the mountains had often
1:)een suggested and earnestly advocated by many of the promi-
nent men in the Virginia Colony, but no move in that direction
was taken until about the time of the first settlement o.f the lower
Valley, at and after which time the Governoa- and Council of Vir-
ginia, with but little hesitancy, permitted the erection of dissenting
churches in the Valley, and encouraged the immigration of settlers
whenever possible.
The result of this action was a flood of settlers, emigrants froan
Scotland and Ireland, who came by way of Pennsylvania, mostly
Scotch-Irish Presbyterians in belief. They passed into and settled
in the Valley, and in a few years the Valley from Harper's Ferry
to ISTew river was populated with a progressive, liberty-loving peo-
ple second to none on earth.
Colonel James Patton, who came from the north of Ireland in
1736, was one of the first and most influ-cntial settlers of the Val-
ley of Virginia.
In the year 1745, he secured a grant from the Governor and
Council of Virginia, for one hundred and twenty thousand acres
of land west of the Blue Eidge, and he and his son-in-law, John
Buchanan, who was also deputy surveyor of Augusta county, lo-
cated lands on the James river, and founded and named Buchanan
and Pattonsburg, villages that were built on the opposite sides of
the James river, now in Botetourt county.
In the year 1748, Dr. Thomas Walker, who afterwards, on the
39th day of September, 1752, qualified as a deputy surveyor of
Augusta county; Colonel James Patton, Colonel_Jqhn Buchanan,
Colonel James Wood and Major Charles Campbell, accompanied
by a number of hunters, John Findlay being of the number, ex-
plored Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee, and located and
44 Southwest Virgmia, 17Ji6-17SG.
surveyed ;i miiiil)er of very v;iliial)l(! tracts of land by authority of
the grant to Colonel James Patton.
We give below a list of the first surveys made on the waters of
the Holston and Clinch rivers.
This information i« derived from the surveyor's recorcTs
of Augusta county at Staunton, Va. Each of the above surveys
is signed by Thomas Lewis, surveyor of Augusta county, and in
the left-hand corner of the plot, recorded with each survey, are
w^ritten the letters J. B., the initials of John Buchanan, deputy
snryeyor of the county.
Tt is evident from this rc>eord that John Buchanan surveyed the
rseveral tnicts of land first located in Washington county, and that
he was on the waters of the Indian or Holston river surveying as
early as the 14th day of March, 174(5.
It will be observed from an inspection of this list of surveys
that on April 2, 1750, there was surveyed for Edmund Pendleton
3,000 acres of land lying on AVest creek, a branch of the South
Fork of Indian river, which tract of la,nd now lies in Sullivan
county, 'I'ennessee.
'^^riiis ti'act was patented to Edmund Pendleton in 1756 ujjon the
idea that the Virginia line, Avhen run, Avould embrace these lands.
]t is \\(n-thy of note (hat these early explorers and the many
hunters and traders who had previously visited this section called
the Holston river the Indian river, while the Indians gave it the
name of Hogoheegee, and the French gave it the name of the
Cherokee river.
All of the lands surveyed in this county previously to 1,748 are
described in the surveys as being on the waters of the Indian river.
These explorers returned to their homes delighted, no doubt, with
the excellent lands they had visited, but nothing resulted from their
efforts save the acquisition of a knowledge of the country.
At the time Dr. Walker and his associates made their trip of
exploration above described they were followed as far as New river
by Thomas Inglis and his three sons, Mrs. Draper and her son and
daughter, Adam Harman, Henry Leonard and James Burke, pio-
neers in search of a home in the wilderness. Lands were surveyed
for each of them, which lands are described in the respective sur-
veys as lying on Wood's river, or the waters of Wood's river. Here
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they made a settlement, the first west of the Alleghany divide and
the first on Wood's or New river.
The name given to this new settlement was "Draper's Meadows."
The surveys, with accompanying plats for these, the first set-
tlers on any of the waters flowing into the Mississippi, are exceed-
ingly interesting and instructive.
These first settlers were immediately followed by a large num-
ber of other persons.
The Alleghany mountains having been crossed and the waters
flowing into the Mississippi reached, the pioneer rapidly sought to
bring the wilderness under his dominion. The first company of
settlers at Draper's Meadows were at once increased by new ar-
rivals, and numerous tracts of land west of ISTew river and near
what were afterwards known as the Lead Mines occupied. Among
the early settlers in that section of Southwest Virginia were the
Crocketts, Sayers, Cioyds, McGavocks and McCalls.
James Burke, with his family, settled in 1753 in what has since
been known as Burk's Garden, and Charles Sinclair in Sinclair's
Bottom. Stephen Holston built his cabin within thirty feet of the
head spring of the Middle Fork of Indian, since called Holston
river, some time previous to 174'8, and thus Burke, Sinclair and
Holston gave names to the localities of their early settlements.
A colony of people called "Dunkards" settled on the west side of
New river near Inglis' Ferry, and in the year 1750 Samuel Stal-
naker, with the assistance of Dr. Walker and his associates, erected
his cabin on the Holston nine miles west of Stephen Holston's
cabin.
It is worthy of mention in this place that in this year, 1749,
the commissioners appointed by the Legislatures of Virginia and
North Carolina continued the boundary line between Virginia
and North Carolina to a point on Steep Eock Creek,* in this county.
Dr. Walker and his associates had met Samuel Stalnaker on the
waters of the Holston in April, 1748, between the Eeedy Creek
settlement and the Holston river, at which time it is evident, from
a journal kept by Dr. Walker, that Stalnaker told Walker and his
associates of the Cumberland Gap, and made an engagement with
Dr. Walker to pilot him upon a trip to Kentucky at a subsequent
date.
*Now Laurel Fork of Holston river.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 47
The French had established settlements on the waters of the
Ohio and Mississippi rivers, and claimed, by right of discovery
and occupancy, as territory belonging to the French crown, all
the lands west of the Alleghany mountains, and were actively as-
serting their right to all of this territory at all times and by every
possible means. It is claimed that the French had established a
fort near the Broad Ford of the Tennessee river, and had opened
and operated mines in the territory now included in Eastern Ken-
tucky; and it is well Icnown that the French traders were to be
found in nearly all of the Indian villages east of the Mississippi
river and west of the Alleghany mountains.
The English Government and the American Colonies denied the
pretensions of the French crown, and looked with jealousy upon
every movement made by France in the direction of the accom-
plishment of her claim.
As a result, on the 12th day of July, 1749, the Governor and
Council of Virginia granted to the "Ohio Company" 500,000 acres
of land, to be surveyed and located south of the Ohio river, and
to forty-six gentlemen, styling themselves the "Loyal Company,"
leave to take up and survey 800,000 acres of land in one or more
surveys, beginning on the bounds between this State and North
Carolina and running to the westward and to the north seas to
include the said quantity, with four years' time to locate said land
and make return of surveys.
The "Ohio Company" employed Christopher Gist, one of the
most noted surveyors of that time, to go, as soon as possible, to the
westward of the Great Mountains, and to carry with him such a
number of men as he thought necessary, in order to search out and
discover the lands upon the river Ohio and other adjoining branches
of the Mississippi, down as low as the Great Falls thereof, now
Louisville, Kentucky.
He was also directed to observe the passes through the mountains,
to take an exact account of the soil and products of the lands, the
width and depth of the rivers, the falls belonging to them, the
course and bearings of the rivers and mountains, and to ascertain
what Indians inhabitated them, with their strength and numbers.
Pursuant to his instructions, he set out from the old town on
the Potomac river, in Maryland, in October, 1750, and spent many
days on the lands south of the Ohio river, in the present State
48 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
of Kentucky; he finall_y came to the Cumberland mountains at
Pound (lap, at which gap he crossed and passed down Gist's river
to Powell's and Clinch valleys. On Tuesday, the 7tli day of May,
1751, he came to"New river and crossed the same about eight miles
above the mouth of Bluestone river. On Saturday, the 11th, he
came to a very high mountain, upon the top of which was a lake
or pond about three-fourths of a mile long northeast and south-
west, and one-fourth of a mile wide, the water fresh and clear,
its borders a clean gravelly shore about ten yards wide, and a fine
meadow with six fine springs in it.
From this description it is evident that Gist visited Salt Lake
mountain, in Giles county, Va., as early as 1751, and found the
lake as it now is.
It is evident from this journal that the traditions that we
so often hear repeated about this lake are nothing more than mythi-
cal, and that this lake existed as it now is at the time of the earliest
explorations of the white man. Colonel Gist then passed south
about four miles to Sinking Creek and on to the settlements.
In the meantime the "Loyal Companj'^' were not idle, but, hav-
ing employed Dr. Thomas Walker for a certain consideration,
sent him on the 12th day of December, 1749, in company with
Ambrose Powell, William Tomlinson, Henry Lawless and John
Hughes, to the westward in order to discover a proper place for a
settlement. A journal of this trip will be found in the Appendix
to this work, and the reader will find a perusal of this journal ex-
ceedingly interesting, as Dr. Walker and his associates passed di-
rectly through what might reasonably be termed the centre of
Washington county.
It will be necessary, in speaking of this journal of Dr. Walker's,
to call the reader's attention to only a few incidents connected
with the trip, which we will do as briefly as possible.
On March 15, 1750, they came to the "Great Lick," now the
present site of the city of Eoanoke, Va., at which place they
bought corn of Michael Campbell for their horses, at which time
Dr. Walker remarks: "This Lick has been one of the best places
for game in these parts, and M^ould have been of much greater
advantage to the inhabitants than it has been if the hunters had
not killed the buffaloes for diversion and the elks and deer for
their skins,"
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 49
It has been the prevailing opinion that there were no bniialoes
east of the Blue Eidge, and while the Great Lick, or Eoanoke
City, is west of the Blue Eidge, it is altogether probable that buf-
faloes in their range did oftentimes travel beyond the mountains;
at any rate it is known that Colonel Byrd killed buffaloes in 1739
on the boundary line between Virginia and North Carolina and
south of Eoanoke.
They thence went up the Staunton river, now -called the Little
Eoanoke river, to William Inglis'. Dr. Walker, at this point,
notes the fact that William Inglis had a mill which is the fur-
thest back, except one lately built by the sect of people who called
themselves of the Brotherhood of Euphrates, or "Duncards," who
are the upper inhabitants of the New river and lived on the west
side of the same.
It is well to note at this point that the present village of Blacks-
burg is near the locality occupied by William Inglis in 1750. The
Dunkards spoken of by Dr. Walker lived on the west side of New
river opposite Inglis' Ferry, several miles above the crossing of
the Norfolk and Western railroad. Their next stopping point was
on a small run between Peak Creek and Eeed Creek, or between
Pulaski city and Max Meadows of the present day. They next
camped near James McCall's on Eeed Creek, and on the 22d of
March they reached a large spring about five miles below Davis'
Bottom, on the Middle Fork of Holston river, where they camped;
they moved thence down the Middle Fork of Holston, where they
again camped, and Ambrose Powell and Dr. Walker went to look
for Samuel Stalnaker and found his camp, he having just moved out
to settle. They assisted Stalnaker in building his house, and spent
the Sabbath about one-half a mile below him. On Monday, the
36th, they left the frontiers of civilization, Stalnaker's settlement
being the farthest west at that time. Their trip was not eventful
until the 30th, on which day they caught two young buffaloes, and
on the 31st they traveled down the Eeedy creek to the Holston
river at the foot of Long Island, where they measured an elm
tree twenty-five feet in circumference three feet from the ground.
They crossed the North Fork of the Holston about one-half a
mile above the junction of the North and South Fork rivers at
a ford. At this point they discovered evidences of Indians. They
found, in the fork between the North and South Forks of Holston
50 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
river, five Indian houses built with logs and covered with bark,
around which there were an abundance of bones and many pieces
of mats and cloth. On the west side of the North Fork of Hol-
ston river they foimd four Indian houses, and four miles south-
west of the junction of the North and South Forks of Holston
river they discovered an Indian fort on the south side of the main
Holston river.
On April 2d they left the Holston river and traveled in a north-
west direction toward Cumberland Gap, passing over Clinch moun-
tain at Loony's. Gap, it is thought. They reached the Clinch river
above the present location of Sneedsville, in Hancock county, Ten-
nessee, and on the 12th day of April they reached Powell's river,
ten miles from Cumberland Gap. It is well to note at this point
that Ambrose Powell, one of Dr. Walker's companions, cut his
name upon a tree on the bank of this river, which name and tree
were found in the year 1770 by a party of fifteen or twenty Vir-
ginians on their way to Kentucky on a hunting expedition, from
which circumstance the Virginia Long Hunters gave it the name
of Powell's river, which name it still retains. On the 13th they
reached Cumberland Gap, which gap Dr. Walker afterwards named
Cumberland Gap in honor of the Duke of Cumberland, the son
of George II, and the commander of the English forces, on the
16th of April, 1746, at Culloden, where he defeated, with great
slaughter, the Highland forces, refusing quarter to the wounded
prisoners.
On the 17th of April he reached the Cumberland river and
named it at that time. On the 23d a part of this company was
left to build a house and plant some peach stones and corn. On
the 28th Dr. Walker returned to his company and found that
they had built a house 12x8 feet, cleared and broken up some
ground and planted corn and peach stones.
This was the first house built by an Anglo-Saxon in the State
of Kentucky, and it was used and occupied as late as 1835. The
location of this house is on the farm of George M. Faulkner, about
four miles below Barboursville, Ky. They thence traveled in a
northeast direction, crossing Kentucky river and New river and
striking the waters of the Greenbrier, and on the 13th day of
July Dr. Walker reached his home. On this journey they killed
thirteen buffaloes, eight elks, fifty-three bears, twenty deer, four
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 51
wild geese and about a hundred and fifty turkeys, and could have
killed three times as much meat if they had wanted it.
It is to be recollected that this trip and the building of the cabin
in the wilderness of Kentucky was all in the interest of the "Loyal
Company/'
i\.bout this time the "Ohio Company" entered a caveat against
the "Loyal Company," and the Lo3/al Company got into a dispute
with Colonel James Patton, who had an unfinished grant below
where this company were to begin, and no further progress was
made by the company until June 14, 1753.
In the year 1748, Mr. Gray, Mr. Ashford Hughes and others
obtained a grant from the Governor and Council for 10,000 acres
of land lying on the waters of the New river, which grant was
soon afterwards assigned to , Peter Jeiferson (father of Thomas
Jefferson), Dr. Thomas Walker, Thomas Merriweather and David
Merriweather, which lands were surveyed and principally settled
in the early days of the settlement of this section.
About the same time the Governor and the Council of Virginia
granted to John Lewis, of Augusta, and his associates 100,000
acres of land to be located on the Greenbrier river, and thus the
English Government sought to displace the French in their efforts
to settle and hold the lands west of the Alleghany mountains.
On the other hand, the movements of the English were closely
watched by the French, who were equally determined to defeat
them in their aspirations. A company of French soldiers in 1752
were sent south as far as the Miami river to notify the English
traders among the Indians to leave the country, which they re-
fused to do, and thereupon a fight ensued between the French and
Indians, in which fourteen Miami Indians were killed and four
white prisoners were taken, and thus began the contest which re-
sulted in the loss to France of all her possessions in Canada and
east of the Mississippi river.
In April of the year 1749, the house of Adam Harmon, one of
the first settlers near Inglis' Ferry, on New river, was visited by
the Indians, and his fuis and skins stolen.
*This was the first Indian depredation committed on the white
settlers west of the Alleghany mountains.
In the month of November, 1753, the House of Burgesses of
^Dr. Hale's "Trans-Alleghany Pioneers.
52 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Virginia passed an act for the further encouraging of persons to
settle on the waters of the Mississippi, which act we here copy in
full :
1. Whereas, it will be the means of cultivating a better cor-
respondence with the neighboring Indians if a farther encour-
ageinent be given to persons who have settled on the waters of
the Mississippi, in the county of Augusta; and, whereas, a con-
siderable number of persons, as well his majesty's natural born sub-
jects as foreign Protestants, are willing to come into this Colony
with their families and effects and settle upon the lands near the
said waters in case they can have encouragement for so doing; and,
whereas, the settling of that part of the country will add to the
security and strength of the Colony in general and be a means of
augmenting his majesty's revenue of quit rents ;
2. Be it therefore enacted by the Lieutenant-Governor, Council
and Burgesses of this present General Assembly, and it is hereby
enacted by the authority of the same. That all persons being Prot-
estants who have already settled or shall hereafter settle and reside
on any lands situated to the westward of the ridge of mountains
that divide the rivers Eoanoke, James and Potowmack, from the
Mississippi in the county of Augusta, shall be and are exempted
and discharged from the payment of all public county and parish
levies for the term of fifteen years next following, any law, usage,
or custom to the contrary thereof, in any wise notwithstanding.*
The English Government were exceedingly anxious to encourage
the settlements on the waters of the Mississippi and thereby
strengthen their frontiers and fortify their claim to the lands lying
west of the Alleghany mountains, and, in keeping with this desire,
the Governor and Council of Virginia, on June 14, 1753, renewed
the grant to the "Loyal Company" and allowed them four years'
farther time to complete the surveying and seating of said land, and
on the 6th day of July following Dr. Thomas Walker, their agent,
proceeded with all convenient speed to survey said land and to sell
the same to purchasers at three pounds per hundred acres, exclu-
sive of fees and rights. The basis of the operations of Dr. Walker
was in Southwest Virginia, and by the end of the year 1754 he had
surveyed and sold 224 separate tracts of land containing 45,249
acres, which surveys were made in the name of the several pur-
*Hen. S., p. 356. ,
Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786. 53
chasers from him, and many of the said tracts of land were actually
occupied by settlers.
During this time James Patton was actively at work surveying
and selling lands to settlers under his grant from the Governor and
Council, and the tide of emigration was fast settling towards South-
west Virginia, when the French-Indian war of 1754-1763 came on,
which war began in all its fury about this time, and thereby Dr.
Walker, agent for the "Loyal Company," and James Patton and
others were prevented, for the time being, from further prosecuting
their enterprises in surveying and settling this portion of Virginia.
In the spring of 1754, numbers of families were obliged, by an
Indian invasion, to remove from their settlements in Southwest
Virginia, and these removals continued during the entire war. It
will be well here to note the fact that the lands held by Stephen
Holston, James ]\IcCall, Charles Sinclair and James Burke, the
earlier settlers of this portion of Virginia, were held by them under
what were known at that time as "corn rights — that is, under the
law as it then stood, each settler acquired title to a hundred acres
for every acre planted by him in corn, but subsequent settlers, as
a general rule, held their lands under one of the above-mentioned
grants. Stephen Holston, who settled at the head spring of the
Middle Fork of Holston some time prior to 1748, did not remain
long at this place, but sold his right to James Davis, who, on the
19th of March, 1748, had John Buchanan, deputy surveyor of
Augusta county, to survey for him at this point a tract of land con-
taining 1,300 acres, to which he gave the name of "Davis' Fancy,"
and the descendants of James Davis occupy a portion of this land
to this day.
Stephen Holston, when he had disposed of his rights to Davis,
constructed canoes, passed down the Holston, Tennessee and Mis-
sissippi rivers to Natchez, Mississippi, and thence returned to Vir-
ginia, and settled in Culpeper county, where he lived in 1754; af-
terwards, in 1757, he was captured by the Indians, but, making
his escape, he returned to the waters of the Holston, and served
under Colonel Christian upon the expedition to Point Pleasant in
1774, and in the expedition against the Cherokees in 1776. Many
of his descendants are to be found in East Tennessee at this time.
At the beginning of the year 1753 two families resided on Back
creek; James Eeed, at Dublin, Va. (from whom Eeed creek de-
54 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
rived its name); two families on Cripple creek; James Burk, in
Burk's Garden; Joseph and Esther Crockett, at the head waters
of the South Fork of Holston river; James Davis, at the head
waters of the Middle Fork of Holston river, and a family of Dimk-
ards, by the name of McCorkle, on the west bank of New river
near Inglis' Ferry. Of these facts we have record evidence.
Many other families resided west of New river, of whom we have
no record.
And thus closes the record of the first efforts made to explore
and settle Southwest Virginia by the white man.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-17S6. 55
CHAPTEE IV.
Southwest Virginia.
1754-1770. Thus matters stood at the beginning of the year
1754. Governor Dinwiddie, in this year, dispatched George Wash-
ington on a mission to the French commander on the Ohio.
Washington, accompanied by Christopher Gist, arrived at the
French headquarters, which were situated near the present city
of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where he delivered the dispatches
from Governor Dinwiddie, informing the French commander that
war was inevitable unless he immediately withdrew from the coun-
try.
The French commander denied the right of Governor Dinwiddie
to give him orders in the premises, and declared his purpose to
destroy every settlement made by the Virginians in the west.
To form some idea of the spirit of the American colonies in re-
gard to the French settlements on the Ohio and their apprehen-
sions therefrom. Governor Dinwiddie wrote to Earl Granville, in
1754, that the French intended to build forts, not only on the Ohio,
but on Greenbrier, Holston and New rivers, and the French and
Indians, he says, are now making incursions among our inhabi-
tants in Augusta coimty, driving them from their homes.
Washington returned to Williamsburg and reported the result
of his trip, whereupon the Governor of Virginia proceeded to raise
a regiment under Colonel Joshua Fry and Lieutenant- Colonel
George Washington. This regiment immediately proceeded to the
west, and at Eedstone, Western Pennsylvania, they encountered
a force, composed of Indians and French, which they attacked, kill-
ing ten and capturing the rest.
They proceeded to the Great Meadows, halted, and built a fort,
to which they gave the name of "Fort Necessity." On the 3d day
of July, 1754, a force of French and Indians, numbering about a
thousand, under the command of Count de Villiers, vigorously
assaulted the fort and attempted to take it. The siege lasted for
nine hours, at the end of which time the French leader sent in a
flag of truce offering to receive the surrender of the fort upon hon-
5G Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
orable terms, wliicli offer was accepted, and the Virginians marched
out next morning.
In the spring of 1755, the American colonies attacked the French
at Nova Scotia, Crown Point, Niagara and on the Ohio river.
The attack on the French and Indians on the Ohio was com-
manded by General Braddock, who had arrived from England
early in tliat year with two royal regiments — the Eighteenth and
Forty-fourth. Virginia sent 800 men to join Braddock, and the
Virginia troops were commanded by Captains Waggoner, Cock,
Hogg, Stevens, Poulson, Perrony, Mercer and Stewart. Brad-
dock marched from Alexandria, Virginia, on the 30th of April,
1755, with 2,200 men, and on the 9th of July he reached the
Monongahela river, where his troops fell into an ambuscade.
Braddock was mortally wounded, and his army put to flight, with
a loss of 777 men killed and wounded, and had it not been for the
coolness and courage of Washington and his Virginia troops the
entire army would have been destroyed.
The army retreated a himdred and twenty miles into the set-
tlement, and the whole frontier of Western Virginia was thus left
open to the ravages of the French and Indians. The French and
Indians crossed the Alleghany mountains into the valley and to
New river, killing and scalping, in the most horrible manner,
men, women, and children without distinction, and thus ended
the first year of the war.
On the 21st day of March, 1755, the County Court of Augusta
county appointed George Stalnaker constable on the waters of the
Holston and New rivers, and he built a stockade fort at Dunk-
ards' Bottom, the name of which was, according to some writers.
Fort Frederick, but there is some doubt about it.
In the month of February, 1755, William Wright, an ensign,
who was stationed at Fort Lewis, near Salem, Virginia, by Major
Andrew Lewis, accompanied by twenty men, marched to the head
waters of the Holston river for the purpose of protecting the set-
tlers, but his movements were so slow that he failed to accomplish
anything, and, upon his return, he was reprimanded by the Gov-
ernor of Virginia.
The New river settlers were not permitted to escape the ravages
of the Indians and the French, for on the 8th day of July, 1755,
the day before Braddock's defeat, a considerable party of Shaw-
Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786. 57
nese Indians fell upon this settlement and wiped it out of exist-
ence. Colonel James Patton, Casper Barrier, Mrs. George Draper
and a child of John Draper were killed. Mrs. William Inglis and
her two children, Mrs. John Draper and Henry Leonard were taken
prisoners. Mrs. Inglis was taken to Ohio, thence to Bone Lick,
Kentucky, whence she and an old Dutch woman made their es-
cape, and, after many days, returned to her home on New river.
This invasion occurred on Sunday, the 8th day of July, 1755.
Colonel Patton, accompanied by William Preston, was on a visit
to the New river settlement, and was detained by sickness at the
house of William Inglish. William Preston, William Inglis and
John Draper were away from the house at the time. Mrs. John
Draper, who first discovered the Indians, ran to the house, secured
her infant child, and attempted to make her escape by the opposite
side of the house, but she was detected by the Indians, and, having
one of her arms broken, the child fell to the ground. She then
took the child in the other arm and continued her flight, but was
soon overtaken, the child taken from her, and its brains dashed
out upon a log by the Indians. Colonel Patton, at the time of the
attack, was seated at a table writing, with his broad sword beside
him. He immediately arose, and killed two of the Indians be-
fore he was shot by others beyond his reach.
The Indians then plundered the premises and began a hasty re-
treat.
On their retreat they passed the house of an old man by the
name of Philip Barger, whom they killed by severing his head
from his body, and carried it off in a bag. It was several days
before efforts were made to overtake the enemy and rescue the
prisoners, as Vause's Fort was the nearest point from which help
could be obtained.
Mrs. Inglis and the other prisoners were carried by the Indians
to Ohio. Mrs. Inglis was al)sent from her home about five months,
when, in the month of December, 1755, she reached the house of
Adam Harmon on New river, whence she was taken to a small fort
at Dunkards' Bottom, on the west side of New river, where she was
found on the next day by her husband and her brother. The other
captives, with but few exceptions, were either rescued or redeemed
and returned to their homes after many years.
The body of Colonel James Patton was buried at Draper's
58 Southivcst Virginia, 1746-17S6.
Meadows. Colonel John Buchanan sent a company of men to
pursue the Indians, but they did not succeed in overtaking them,
and thus occurred the first Indian massacre of the white inhabitants
of Southwest Virginia.
About ten miles west of where Christiansburg now stands, and
near the former residence of Captain Jacob Kent, about two and
a half miles east of Lafayette and on the head waters of the Eoa-
noke river, there stood a small fort that in those days was known
as Vause's Fort, and this was the nearest place of refuge for the
settlers on New river.
In the fall of the year 1755, about a hundred French and Indians
came upon the ISTew river, and assaulted and captured this fort
and killed or carried into capti\ity twenty-four persons, not a
single person escaping. This was a private fort, constructed by
the settlers for their own protection, and was built of logs and
easily captured.
As best I can ascertain, at the time of this invasion James
Burk, who had settled in Burk's Garden in the year 1753, was
captured with his entire family; they were all either killed or car-
ried into captivity.
A register of the persons who were killed, wounded, and taken
prisoners in the 3'ears 1754, 1755, and 1756 on the New river,
Eeed creek, and Holston rivers has been preserved, and is as fol-
lows:
1754, Stephen Lyon, Holston Eiver, killed.
October. John Godman, Holston Eiver, killed.
Benjamin Harrison, Holston Eiver, killed.
1755, Burk, Holston Eiver, prisoner; escaped.
]\Iay 3. Mary Baker, Holston Eiver, wounded.
June 18. Samuel Stalnaker, Holston, Eiver, prisoner; escaped.
Samuel Hydon, Holston Eiver, prisoner.
Adam Stalnaker, Holston Eiver, killed.
Mrs. Stalnaker, Holston Eiver, killed.
A servant man, Holston Eiver, killed.
Mathias Connie, Holston Eiver, killed.
June 19. Michael Houck, Holston Eiver, killed.
July 3. James McFarland, New Elver, killed.
John Bingeman, New Elver, killed.
Mrs. Bingeman, New Eiver, killed.
Southtvest Virginm, 17Jf6-17S6. 59
Adam Bingeman, New River, killed.
John Cook. New Eiver, killed.
Henry Lin, New River, killed.
A young child, New River, killed.
Nathaniel Welshire, New River, wounded.
Dutch Jacob, New River, wounded.
His wife, New River, prisoner ; escaped.
Frederick Stern, New River, wounded.
Mrs. Bingeman, Jr., New River, wounded.
Mrs. Davis, New River, wounded.
Isaac Freeland, his wife and five children. New River ;
prisoners.
Bridgeman's son and daughter and a stranger, New
River; prisoners.
July 12. ^Lieutenant Wright and two soldiers, Reed Creek, killed.
30. \ Colonel James Patton, Now River, killed, t--—
Caspar Barrier, New River, killed.
Mrs. Draper and one child. New River, killed.
James Cull, New River, woimded.
Mrs. English (Inglis) and her two children. New River,
prisoners; escaped.
Mrs. Draper, Jr., New River, prisoner.
Henry Leonard, New River, prisoner.
Morris Griffith, Vause's Fort, prisoner ; escaped.
Robert Looney and a Dutchman, Reed Creek, killed.
John Lee, Reed Creek, killed.
Michael Motes, Reed Creek, killed.
Patrick Smith, Reed Creek, killed.
Moses Mann, Reed Creek, prisoner.
^Valentine Harman and one son, New River, killed.
Andrew Moses, New River, killed.
25. Captain John Smith, Fort Yause, prisoner ; escaped.
Peter Looney, Fort Vause, prisoner ; escaped.
William Bratton, Fort Vause, prisoner; escaped.
Joseph Smith, Fort Vause, prisoner.
William Pepper, Fort Vause, prisoner.
Mrs. Vause and two daughters, a negro, and two young
Indians and a servant man. Fort Vause, prisoners.
Ivan Medley, and two daughters. Fort Vause, prisoners.
60 Soutliicest Virginia, I7J16-I786.
James Bell, Fort Vause, prisoner.
Christoj^her Hicks, Fort Vause, prisoner.
Cole, Fort Vanse, prisoner.
Graham, Fort Vause, prisoner.
Benj. Daries, Fort Vause, prisoner.
Lieut. Jolin Smith, Fort Vause, killed.
John Tracey, Fort Vause, killed.
John English, killed.
Mrs. Mary English, Fort Vause, prisoner.
Wm. Eobinson, Fort Vause, wounded.
Thomas Eobinson, Fort Vause, wounded.
Samuel Eobinson, Fort Vause, wounded.
Eobert Pepper, Fort Vause, wounded.
John Eobinson, Fort Vause, killed.
1757. John Walker, Fort Vause, prisoner."*
Feb.
In Jul}^ of this year, Eichard Pearls, who was located on the Hols-
ton river carrying on a trade with the Cherokee Indians, addressed a
letter to the Governor of Virginia requesting a grant for the lands
on the Long Island in the South Fork of the Holston river. In
reply the Governor encouraged Pearis to believe that he could olitain
a grant, and wrote him as follows : "I am surprised the inhabitants
on Llolston river should submit to be robbed by a few Indians. Let
the Chickasaw know that I greatly approve of his conduct and have
a real esteem for him." This last sentence in the Governor's letter
had reference to a Chickasaw warrior who had resented the murder
of one of the white settlers.
At the time of which we write the Virginia colonists, and the
Cherokee and the Chickasaw Indians were exceedingly friendly, and
through the agency of Eichard Pearis, who was a great favorite with
the Indians, the Govern(Nr of Virginia subsequently sought to en-
list the Cherokee and the Chickasaw Indians in the war against the
French and the Northern Indians.
SANDY RIVER EXPEDITION.
For the purpose of avenging the massacre of the settlers upon the
ISTew river, the Governor of Virginia enlisted a hundred and thirty
Cherokee Indians, to whom were joined four companies of the Eang-
*Col. Wm. Preston diary in L. C. Draper Manuiseript.
Southivest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 61
ers of West Augusta, for the purpose of invading and destroying the
Shawnese towns at the mouth of the Big Sandy and on the Ohio
river. The command of this expedition was given to Major Andrew
Lewis.
This force consisted of two hundred and sixty-three white meh,
commanded by Captain Peter Hogg, with forty men; Captain
William Preston, with thirty men; Captain John fSmith, with
thirty men; Captain Samuel Overton, with forty men; Captain
Obadiah Woodson, with forty men; Captains Robert Breckenridge,
Archibald x\lexander, John Montgomery and Dunlap
commanding eighty-three volunteers, and Captain Richard Pearls
commanding a hundred and thirty Cherokee and Chickasaw In-
dians.
This force was rendezvoused at Fort Lewis, near Salem, Va.,
whence they marched in Feb. 1756, for the Indian towns. They
traveled from Fort Lewis, near Salem, to the New river, which they
crossed at the Horseshoe Bend; they thence descended the New
river to the mouth of Wolf creek, thence up Wolf creek to its
source, thence to Bluestone river, thence to the head of North Fork
of Sandy, which they reached on the 28th day of February, 1756 ;
thence down the Sandy to the Great Burning Springs, at which point
they saw the rawhides of several buffaloes hung upon bushes to dry.
At this time provisions became very scarce and a famine was threat-
ened, but this little army was saved by the bravery and firmness of
Major Lewis.
The army then proceeded from the Burning Springs to the banks
of the Ohio, where they remained for two days. Seeing no evidences
of Indians, they began to retrace their steps, and by the time they
had reached the Burning Springs on their return, the hunger of the
men had become so great that the hides of the buffaloes, which had
been hung upon the bushes, were cut into tugs, and the men de-
voured them as the only means of preserving life. It is said that
from this circumstance the Tug Fork of Sandy river received its
name. Thus this expedition ended disastrously for the settlers.
The Indians were correspondingly elated and immediately ad-
vanced upon the settlements east of the Alleghany mountains, com-
mitting many murders and carrying off many prisoners.
The Governor and Council of Virginia agreed to build a number
of forts for the protection of the western settlements, and, among
62 Southwest Virginm, 1746-1786. '-
the number. Fort Vausc, wliicli ]\a(l been destroyed by the Indians
a short time previous. The building of tlie fort was to be under the
supervision of Captain Peter Hogg, and was to be at least one hun-
dred feet square in the clear, with stockades at least sixteen feet long,
and was to be garrisoned by seventy men. Immediately upon the
erection of this new fort, many of the settlers returned to their
homes at and near the fort. About this time companies of Rangers
were organized for the purpose of running down and capturing .
marauding Shawnese Indians wherever they should be found. A
journal of one of these expeditions has been preserved, which we
here publish as a relic of the past.
An extract of a Journal "Concerning a march that Capt. Eobert
Wade took to the New River" in search of Indians, Saturday, 12th
of August, 1758 :
Capt. Robert Wade marc't from Mayo fort, with 35 men, in
order to take a Range to the New River in search of our Enemy In-
dians. We marcht about three miles that Day to a Plantation,
Where Peter Rentfro formerly Lived and took up Camp, where we
continued safe that night — Next morning being Sunday, we con-
tinued to march about three or four miles, and one Francis New
returned back to the Fort, then we had 34 men besides the Capt —
We marcht along to a place called Gobeling Town, where we Eat
our Brakefast — & so continued our march till late in the after-
noon, and took up Camp at the Foot of the Blew Ledge where we
continued safe that night— Next morning being Monday, the 14th,
Inst, we started early and crossed the Blew Ledge and Fell upon
a branch of the Little River, called Pine Creek,
We followed the sd : Creek down to Little River, and crost the
Little River & went to Francis Easons' Plantation where we con-
tinued that night. Our hunters brought a plentiful supply of Ven-
ison — Next morning being tuesday the 15 Inst, we marct. down to
Richard Rattlecliffs' plantation on the Meadow Creek, where we
continued that night — Next morning being Wednesday the 16th.
Inst, we Sent our Spyes and hunters to Spy for Enemy Signs, & to
hunt for provisions. But the body of the Company Tarryed there —
At Night they came in with a plenty of Venison, but could not dis-
cover any fresh sign of the Enemy — Next morning Thursday the
17th Inst, we sent out hunters as usual, & in the afternoon some
of them came in & informed us that they had seen signs of Indians
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 63
at Drapers' Meadow, that had been a catching of horses that Day,
and that they had gone a straight course for Blackwater — upon
that we began to get in Eeadyness to persue them next morning —
but one of our men not coming in that night disappointed us —
next morning Being Fryday the 18th. Inst. Some of the men were
sent to Look for the man that was Lost — & the Eest remained there,
for we counted it imprudent to Leave the Place before we knew
what had become of the lost man — so we tarryed Till the Day was
so far Spent that we could not make anything of a march that Day.
So the Capt. said that he and some more men would go to view the
sign, and See what they could Discover. The Capt. and Wm. Hall
and Adam Hermon, and two or three more went off & Left the men
under my Command and ordered that we should be in Eeadyness for
a march as soon as he returned — Soon after the Captain was Gone,
the man that was Lost Came in & Informed us that he had been lost
in a Creek of the Little Eiver — But when the Captain came to the
place where the sign was Seen, he Tels us that he saw a Shoe track
among them, which caused them to believe that it had been white
men after their horses — So the Captain nor none of the men, that
was with him returned that night, But went a hunting — Next
morning being Saturday 19th Inst, the Captain not coming gave
us a great deal of Uneasyness — tho we Bore it with so much pa-
tience as we could 'till about noon, for we lay under great appre-
hensions of Danger — I ordered the men to keep a Verry Sharp Look
out, and Likewise to be in order to march next morning, by Sun
Rise, — I was Determined to stay that night & if the Capt: did not
come, to march off after him — Soon after we had come to a con-
clusion about it Some of the men Spyed five Indians Very near to
us, for the place where we was, was grown up with weeds so that we
could not Se them, nor they see us 'till thay came Verry near us — I
was a Lying down in the house when I heard the news — I Eased up
and presented my Gun at one of the Indians, But I heard some of
our Company that was in another house, Cry out. Don't Shoot —
I Stopt at that and askt them what they were & I beleive they said
Cheroke, but Stood in amaise, & Eeason they had, for I suppose
there was 20 Guns presented at them, we went up to them &
Examined them— they said they were Cherokees, I made signs to
them to show me their Pass, But they had none, — They had with
them 5 head 6t horse Kind & Skelps, that appeared to be white
64 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
mens — 4 of the horses appeared as tho' they had heen Lately taken
lip, hilt the other was very poor — The Indians began to make ready
to go off, hut I made Signs to them that they must not Go that
uight. But they seemed very intent to go — but we would not agree to
it — Some of the Company insisted to fall upon them and Kill them,
for they said they believed they were Shawnees, & that they were
Spyes- — and was doubtful that they had a superior number Some
where nigh — But I said I was determined to keep them till the Capt :
came, without they would go by forse, and if they would we would
fire upon them — 2 of the men went off after the Capt : who soon met
some of the Company, who told them that they had been hunting
& that the Capt: would soon be in; who accordingly came soon after
.^i we informed him how things had happened in his absence & in
wdia^ manner the Indians appeared; that they had no pass and that
they had white Skelps — After Capt : heard the opinion of the peo-
ple, he past sentence of Death upon tliem ; but there was one Abra-
ham Dunkleberry, hunter that we let off who said they were Chero-
kees, yet he agreed that they were Eogues ; which seemed to put the
Capt: to a stand, but we had their Guns taken from them & a guard
kept over them that night — next morning Being Sunday 20th Inst,
upon what Dunkleberry had said the Capt : let them have their Guns
& let them go off — which displeased some of the Carolina men — so
much that they swore if they were not allowed to kill them, they
would never go Banging again, for they said it was to no purpose
to Rang after the Enemy, & when they liad found them, not to be
allowed to kill them — which you must think is very hard for us to
be compel to Bang & then let the Enemy have Liberty to Kill some
of us, before we Dare to Kill them — at that Bate we may all be
Kill'd, and never Kill an Indian, for if there is enough of them to
overcome us, then they are Eneni}^, But if we are too numerous for
them they are friends.
Upon consideration of their having no pass, nor white man, & by
reason of their steal of horses, they did not appear any waise Like
friends, so the Captain told them to be Easy, and after Dunkleberry
was gone, wo would go after them and Kill them. So Dimkleberry
packt up his skins to go off & we marcht after the Indians — we
overtook them and past them, Because the Capt: said they were
in such order that we could not kill them all, but would wate for a
better opportunity — They were going toward the New River — so the
Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1180. 65
men that had been acquainted Knew of 2 fords & they Emagined
they would cross at the upper ford — But we lade an Ambuslikaide
at each ford, the Capt : & myself and a partie of men at the upper
ford, and a partie of men at the Loer ford & the Capts : orders were
to fire at them as they Crost the Eiver — But after we had placed our-
selves and sat awhile 3 or 3 of the men came from the Loer Ford &
informed us that two of the Indians had Crost at the Loer ford, and
they did not fire at them because they were not altogether. So the
Capt. and the men went towards the Loer Ford & as we went along
we saw 4 of the Indians; we did not fire at them; the Capt: con-
cluded to ly by awhile and let them all get together & then follow
them and kill them — soon after the other Indians followed them,
the (*apts : orders was for 13 of the best men to follow them and
Kill them and the remainder of the Company to go to the Dunker
Fort which was about half a mile below us & the Capt: took such
men as he Lik'd and set clown to conclude how we should follow
them — the way the Capt proposed was to Dog them till night and
then ly By till the Brake of Day and then Fall upon them and Kill
them — he said if we fired upon them in tha day, some would get
away — but we did not approve of his skeems, and told him the 111
Consequence that attended it, but he still insisted upon that way of
proceeding — ^At length we desired him to go down to the fort with
the rest of the. men, & let us go after the Indians, to which he con-
sented, and went off to the fort and we after the Indians —
The men that followed them Arere Adam hermon, Daniel Her-
mon, Wm. Hall, Eic'd Hall, Jun'r, Tobias Clapp, Philip Clap,
Joseph Clapp, Benj. Angel, David Currie, Eic'd Hines, James Lyon
& my self — 13 of us — We followed them and overtook them at a
peach orchard — jest as they were leaving it, we watched our oppor-
tunity, and fired at them and followed them up till we Killed 4 of
them, and wounded the other — we Skelpt them that we killed, &
then followed the other — he bled verry much, he went into the
river and to an Island — but we could not find where he went out —
some of the men left looking for him, and some went after the
Indian horse— but myself and 4 or 5 more, we Sercht the Island
till late in the afternoon, & when we came to the Fort the Capt. and
men were a handling the Indians' goods & after a while the Capt:
told me we were all to be sworn — so we Tarried there that night-
Next morning being Monday 21st Inst, we packed up in order to
&6 South irest Virginia, 17J,G-1786.
march liomeward, for signs of Indians was i:)lenty & we had bi;t lit-
tle amimition bnt before we left the fort, we were Sworn — the words
of the oath Do not remember exactly, but the Intent of the thing
was not to tell that we ever heard them say that they were Chero-
kees without required to swere — so left the fort and marcht till dark
& took up Camp at a Plantation upon a Branch of the Little Elver.
We continued there that night — next morning, being Tuesday the
23nd inst. we marcht from that place to Blackwater — we eat din-
ner with them marcht off again Rob Joneses Plantation on the head
of Pig Eiver, and Tarryed tliere that night, next morning being
Wednesday 23d. inst. they delayed time in the morning, and we had
nothing to eat, the Company had some rum to drink, but myself
and four more left the Company and went across to Goblingtown
& came to Mayo Fort^that night — the Captain and the Rest of the
men tells us that they came to Ilickey's fort and that night and
next day to Mayo fort — I remember no more worth making a remark
of so Courteous Reader I Rem'n
Yrs. &., John Echols.
Captain Wm. Preston and Captain Wm. Byrd each organized a
company of Rangers. A number of the men that enlisted under
them afterwards settled in Washington county and their names were
as follows:
Capt. Wm. Preston s Co. Capt. Wm. Byrd's Co.
Wm. Johnston, Michal Morrison, Sergt.,
Benj. Estill, John Crank,
George Martin, Thomas Brumley,
John Johnston, John Donnelly, Fifer,
Jas. Clendenen, Richard Staunton, Sergt.,
John Vance, John Lemons,
Solomon Kendrick, Richard Chapman,
Christopher Aekland, Francis Farmer,
Robert Rutherford. Henry Dooley,
Drury Puckett, Sergt.,
John Ross.
On the 29th of July, 175G, a Council of War assembled at Staun-
ton, by direction of the Governor of Virginia, to determine at what
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 67
points forts should be built along the frontier for the protection of
the settlers.
The Council was composed of Col. John Buchanan, Samuel Stal-
naker and others, of which Council Wm. Preston acted as clerk.
There can be no doubt that Captain Samuel Stalnaker represented
the Holston settlement and that it was at his request that the
stockade fort was built at Dunkards' Bottom, on New river, and at
Davis' Bottom, at the head waters of the Middle Fork of Holston
river.
In the year 1757, Dickenson's Fort, situated on the Cow Pasture
river, in Augusta county, was raided by the Indians, and several chil-
dren, playing under the walls outside the fort, and a number of men
were captured. So careless were the commanding oflBcers that the
Indians reached the very gates of the fort before they were discov-
ered. At the time of this raid upon Dickenson's Fort, the Indians
captured a boy who was destined in after years to play such a part
in the history of Washington county as would justly entitle him to
the appellation of "Father of Washington County," so intelligent
and active were his efforts in the settling of our county and in the
protection of its earlier inhabitants ; and this boy was Arthur Camp-
bell, who had volunteered as a militiaman for the protection of the
frontiers. On the day of the raid he, with others, had gone to a
thicket near by in search of plums, when the party was fired upon
from ambush by Indians, and Campbell was wounded and cap-
tured. He was carried by the Indians to Ohio and thence to the
Lakes, where he was detained for a number of years, when he suc-
ceeded in making his escape to an English force and returned to his
home. Upon his return he addressed a letter to the Governor of
Virginia, detailing the circumstances of his capture and detention,
and thereby made such an impression upon the Governor that he
was afterwards granted a thousand acres of land in consideration of
his services.
Governor Dinwiddie was so much in earnest about enlisting the
Cherokee and other Southern Indians in the war against the French
and Northern Indians, that, in the year 1756, he dispatched the
Hon. Peter Randolph and Wm. Byrd to their country as commis-
sioners, to negotiate formal treaties with them. The commissioners
returned to Williamsburg and, either before or at that time, a treaty
was made with the Indians, by which it was stipulated that the
C8 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1780.
Indians were to send reinforcements to aid tlie Colonies, in consid-
eration of the agreement of the Government to build a fort in their
country. On the 24th day of April the Governor directed Major
Andrew Lewis to enlist, sixty men who could use the saw and axe,
and to proceed to the Cherokee country with all speed and erect a
fort as agreed upon. ]\Iajor Lewis did not start for the Indian
country until June of that year, and on the 20th day of August,
wrote the Governor that he might expect a reinforcement of a hun-
dred and fifty Cherokees and fifty Catawba Indians at an early date.
Major Lewis, with his force, passed down the waters of the Hols-
ton to the southern bank of the Tennessee river, at the head of navi-
gation, about thirty miles from the present city of Knoxville. He
there built a fort, which ]:e called Fort Loudon, in honor of the
Governor of Virginia. In September of that year, Major Lewis
addressed another letter to the Governor of Virginia, in which he
stated that the Indians were very much pleased with their fort, and
that the Governor might expect a reinforcement of four hundred
Indians. This letter also contained a request from the Indians
that the Governor would send a small garrison of white men to hold
the fort during the absence of their warriors. By the 18th day of
September, 1756, Captain Samuel Overton and his men, who had
accompanied Major Lewis, had returned to their homes, leaving
Major Lewis in the Indian country to bring in the reinforcements.
In the fall of that year Major Lewis returned from the Chero-
kee country, accompanied by seven warriors and three women, great-
ly to the surprise of the Governor. The French in the meantime
had bought off the Indians.
Fort Loudon was then estimated to be more than a hundred miles
from (lie nearest settlement, was at a place at all times difficult to
rjach, even in times of peace, and beyond the reach of help from
the settlements in the event of war with the Cherokee Indians. This
fort was by order of the Earl of Loudon, then Governor of Virginia,
garrisoned by two hundred troops from Britain.
The Indians allured artisans into Fort Loudon by donations of
land, which they caused to be signed by their own chief and^bv
Governor Dobbs of North Carolina. There was a rapid increase of
the number of settlers, as a result, at and in the vicinity of Fort
London.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 69
In the year 1756 the New River Lead Mines were discovered by
Col. John Chiswell, at which time operations were begun.
Coh Chiswell had been engaged in mining operations near Fred-
ericksburg, Va., for some time previous to this time, and was an
intimate friend of Col. Wm Byrd.
Abont this time the lead mines were discovered, and four hun-
dred acres of land, including the mines, were surveyed on October
1st, 3 781, and a patent was issued to Chas. Lynch, trustee for the
lead mine company, by Beverly Randolph, Governor of Virginia, on
the 7th day of May, 1791, in consideration of £3 10s. sterling, paid
by Chas. Lynch, and of pre-emption Treasury warrants Nos. 2393
and 2356. As far as I can ascertain this property was owned orig-
inally by Col. Wm. Byrd, Col. John Chiswell and John Robinson,
afterwards Treasurer of Virginia. Col. John Chiswell, some time
pi-evious to 1775, killed a man in Cumberland county, Virginia, and
while awaiting trial he committed suicide.*
At the beginning of the Revolutionary War, the Legislature of
Virginia directed the Committee of Safety for Fincastle county to
lease these mines, at a reasonable rent, and if they could not lease
them, to impress them for fthe use of the State. The committee,
acting according to their authority, took possession of the lead mines,
whether by lease or by impressment I cannot say, anc" the State of
Virginia, through her agents, Chas. Lynch and Capt. Calloway,
operated these mines during the Revolutionary War, and paid rent
therefor to the representatives of John Robinson and Wm. Byrd,
and to John Chiswell, the son of Col. John Chiswell.
A considerable village had grown up around Fort Loudon by the
year 1760.
British arms were successful at every point in the contest with the
French and Indians in 1758-1760. Canada was conquered and the
French expelled from it in 1759, and Fort Du Quesne was cap-
turned by General Forbes and the French expelled from the Ohio
Valley.
The result of the expulsion of the French from Canada and the
Ohio Valley proved very disastrous to the western settlements of the
Southern Colonies. "The scene of action was only changed from
*Ninth Henning's Statutes, pages 73-237.
t Vol. 14 Call's Rep., page 17.
t 2 H. & M. Rep., page 22.
70 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
one place to another, and the baneful influence of those active and
enterprising enemies that had descended the Ohio soon manifested
itself in a more concentrated form among the upper Cherokees, the
interior position of whose country furnished facilities of immediate
and frequent intercourse with the defeated and exasperated French-
men, who now ascended the Tennessee river and penetrated to their
mountain fastnesses. An unfortunate quarrel with the Virginians
helped to forward their intrigues and opened an easier access into
the towns of the savages. The Cherokees, as before remarked, had,
agreeably to their treaties, sent a number of their warriors to assist
in the reduction of Du Quesne. Eeturning home through the back
parts of Virginia, some of them, who had lost their horses on this
expedition, laid hold on such as they found running at large and
appropriated them. The Virginians resented the injury by killing
twelve or fourteen of the unsuspecting warriors and taking several
more prisoners. This ungrateful conduct from allies, whose fron-
tiers they had defended and recovered, aroused at once a spirit of
deep resentment and deadly retaliation The
flame soon spread through the upper towns. The garrison at Fort
Loudon, consisting of about two hundred men under the command
of Captains Demere and Stuart, was, from its remote position from
the white settlements, the first to notice the disaffection and to suffer
from it. The soldiers, as usual, making excursions into the woods
to procure fresh provisions, were attacked by them and some of them
killed. From this time such dangers threatened the garrison that
every one was confined within the small boundary of the fort." . .
"All communication with the settlements
across the mountains from which they received supplies was cut off,
and the soldiers, having no other sources from which provision could
be procured, had no prospect left them but famine or death. Par-
ties of the young warriors rushed down upon the frontier settle-
ments, and the work of massacre became general along the borders
of Virginia and North Carolina."*
The Governor of North Carolina undertook to pacify the Indians,
and negotiated a treaty with six of their head men, but this treaty
did not express the sentiments of the Indians and they paid no
attention to it.
Numerous companies of Eangers were organized to patrol the
*Haywood.
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 71
frontiers and punish the Indians for any depredations they might
commit, and every means was exhausted to bring about peace, but
the Indians were nOt disposed to listen to any terms of accommo-
dation and continued their depredations wherever and whenever
possible.
The Crovernor of Virginia directed Col. William Byrd to proceed
to Fort Loudon with a body of backwoodsmen froiu Virginia, num-
bering al>out six hundred men, and to relieve the garrison. Col.
Byrd organized his force and began the march, but was greatly
liampered by lack of men and supplies.
JSFotwithstanding the fact that Col. Byrd was an experienced cam-
paigner, he occupied most of his time in building block-houses and
roads, and accomplished nothing in the way of relieving Fort Lou-
don.
He crossed Kew river to the lead mines and immediately pro-
ceeded to build a fort about two miles south of the present site of
Max Meadows on the McAdam road near the home of James Mc-
Gavock, to which he gave the name of Fort Chiswell, in honor of
his friend. Col. John Chiswell, who was at that time working the
lead mines which had been discovered some time previously.
From Fort Chiswell Col. Byrd marched to the Long Island in the
South Fork of Holston river, opening a road from Fort I'hiswell to
Long Island.
At this point. Col. Byrd and his men spent the winter of 1760.
During the winter Col. Byrd erected a fort upon a beautiful level on
the north bank of the South Fork of the Holston river, nearly oppo-
site the upper end of Long Island, to which fort he gave the name
of Fort Robinson, in honor of John Eobinson, the partner of him-
self and Col. John Chiswell in the ownership of tlie lead mines.
This fort was built upon an extensive plan. The walls were suffi-
cient in thickness to^ withstand the force of a small cannon shot.
There were proper bastions, and the gates were spiked with large
nails so that the wood was entirely covered.*
At the time this fort was built, it was supposed that the Long
Island was in Virginia, the boundary line between Virginia and
North Carolina not having been run farther west than Steep Rock.
And thus to Virginians may be assigned the lionor of having
*Fort Patrick Heury, 177(3.
72 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-178G.
erected Fort London and Fort Eobinson, the first Anglo-American
forts witliin tlie present State of Tennessee.
\\'!iile ciiiiaged in hiiildiiig Fort IJobinson Col. Byrd was joined
by five Inuidi'cd men IVoiii Xoi'lh Carolina nnder the command of
Col. Waddell.
As a resnlt of the conrse pursued l)y Coh Byrd, great dissatisfac-
tion arose among his men, and C^ol. Byrd resig-ned, and was suc-
ceeded in the command of the force, now numliering al)out twelve
hundred men, by Col. Stephens.
In tlie meantime, the distant garrison at Fort Lomlon, consist-
ing of two lumdred men, was reduced to the dreadful alternative of
perishing by hunger or submitting to the mercy of the enraged
Cherokees. The Governor of South Carolina, hearing that the Vir-
ginians had undertaken to relieve it, for awdiile seemed satisfied and
anxiously waited to hear the news of that happy event, but so remote
was the fort from any settlement and so difficult was it to march
an army through a barren wilderness, where every thicket con-
cealed an enemy, and to- carry, at the same time, suffi.cient supplies
along with them, that the Virginians had not succeeded in giving
them assistance. Provisions being entirely exhausted at Fort Lou-
don, the garrison Avas upon the point of starving. For a whole
month they had no other subsistence than the flesh of lean hoTses
and dogs and a small supply of Indian beans, procured stealthily for
them by some friendly Cherokee w^omen. The officers had long en-
deavored to encourage the men. with the hope oi succour ; but now,
being blockaded night and day by the enemy and having no resource
left, they threatened to leave the fort and die at once by the hands
of the savages, rather than perish slowly by famine. In this extrem-
ity the commander was obliged to call a council of war tO' consider
what was proper to be done. The officers were all of the opinion
that it was impossible to hold out longer. They therefore agreed to
surrender the fort to the Cherokees on the best terms that could be
obtained from them. For this purpose, Capt. Stuart, an officer of
great sagacity and address and much beloved by those of the Indians
who reuiained in the British interest, ])rocured leave to go to Chota,
one of the principal towns in the neighborhood, where he obtained
the following terms of capitulation, which were signed by the coni-
iiiniiding officers and two of the Cherokee chiefs.
"•That the uai-rison of Fort Ijoudon march out with their arms
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 73
and drums, each soldier having as much powder and ball as his officer
shall think necessary for the march, and all the baggage he may
choose to carry; that the garrison be permitted to march, unmolested,
to Virginia or Fort Prince George, as the commanding officer shall
tliink proper, and that a number of Indians be appointed to escort
them and hunt for provisions diiring the march; that such sol-
diers as are lame, or by sickness disabled from marching, be received
into the Indian towns and kindly used until they recover, and then
be allowed to return to Fort Prince George; that the Indians do
ju'ovide for the garrison as many horses as they conveniently can for
the march, agreeing with the officers and soldiers for payment ; that
tlie fort, gTeat guns, powder, ball and spare arms be delivered to the
Indians without fraud or further delay, on the day appointed for
the march of the troops.*
"Agreeably to this stipulation, the garrison delivered up the fort
and marched out with their arms, accompanied by Oconostota,
Judds' friend, the Prince of Chota, and several other Indians, and
that day went fifteen miles on their way to Fort Prince George.
A-t night they encamped upon a plain about two miles from Tali-
quo, an Indian town, when all their attendants, upon one pretext or
another, left them ; which the officers considered as no good sign, and
therefore placed a strict guard around their camp. During the
night they remained unmolested, but next morning about break of
day a soldier from an outpost came running in and informed them
that he saw a number of Indians, armed and painted in the most
dreadful manner, creeping among the bushes and advancing in order
to surround them. Scarcely had the officer time to order his men
to stand to their arms, when the savages poured in upon them a
heavy fire from different quarters, accompanied by the most hideous
yells, which struck a panic into the soldiers, who were so much en-
feebled and dispirited that they were incapable of making any effect-
ual resistance. Captain Demere, with three other officers and about
twenty-six privates, fell at the first onset. Some fled into the woods
and were afterwards taken prisoners and confined among the towns
in the valley. Captain Stuart and those that remained were seized,
pinioned and brought back to Fort Loudon. No sooner had Attakul-
lakulla heard that his friend, Mr. Stuart, had escaped, than he has-
tened to the fort and purchased him from the Indian that took him,
*Haywood.
74 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
giving him his rifle, clothes and all he could command hy way of
ransom. He then took possession of Capt. Demere's house, where
he kept his prisoner as one of his family and freely shared with
him the little provisions his table afforded, until a fair oppor-
tunity should offer for rescuing him from the hands of the savages,
but the poor soldiers were kept in a miserable state of captivity for
some time and then redeemed by the province at great expense.
"While the prisoners were confined at Fort Loudon, Oconostota
formed the design of attacking Fort Prince George. To this bold
undertaking he was the more encouraged, as the cannon and am-
munition surrendered by the garrison would, under direction of
French officers who were near him, secure its success. Messengers
were therefore dispatched to the valley towns requesting their war-
riors to meet him at Stickoee.
"By accident, discovery was made of ten bags of powder and a
large quantity of ball, that had been secretly buried at the fort to pre-
vent their falling into the enemy's hands. This discovery had nearly
proved fatal to Captain Stuart ; but the interpreter had such presence
of mind as to assure the incensed savages that these warlike stores
were concealed without Stuart's knowledge or consent. The sup-
ply of ammunition being sufficient for the siege, a council was held
at Chota, to which the captive Stuart was taken. Here he was re-
minded of the obligations he was under for having his life spared,
and as they had determined to take six cannon and two cohorts
against Fort Prince George, the Indians told him he must accom-
pany the expedition, manage the artillery and write such letters to
the commandant as they should dictate to him. They further in-
formed him that if the officer should refuse to surrender, they had
determined to burn the prisoners, one by one, before his face and
try whether he could be so obstinate as to hold out while his friends
were expiring in the flames.
"Captain Stuart was much alarmed at his present situation and
from that moment resolved to make his escape or perish in the
attempt. He privately communicated his design to Attakullakulla
and told him that the thought of bearing arms against his country-
men harrowed his feelings, and he invoked his assistance to accom-
plish his release. The old warrior took him by the hand, told him he
was his friend and was fully apprised of the designs of his country-
men, and pledged his efforts to deliver him from danger. Attakulla-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 75
kulla claimed Captain Stuart as his prisoner and resorted to strata-
gem to rescue him. He told the other Indians that he intended to
go a hunting for a few days and to take his prisoner with him.
Accordingly they departed, accompanied by the warrior's wife, his
brother and two soldiers. The distance to the frontier settlements
was great and the utmost expedition was necessary to prevent sur-
prise from Indians pursuing them. Nine days and nights did they
travel through a dreary wilderness, shaping their course by the sun
and moon, for Virginia. On the tenth they arrived at the banks of
the Holston river, where they fortunately fell in with a party of three
hundred men, sent out under the command of Col. Byrd for the
relief of Fort Loudon. On the fourteenth day the Captain reached
Col. Byrd's camp on the frontiers of Virginia. His faithful friend
Attakullakulla was here loaded with presents and provisions and
sent back to protect the unhappy prisoners till they should be ran-
somed and to exert his influence with the Cherokees for the restora-
tion of peace."*
It will be observed that Fort Loudon was defended by twelve great
guns. It cannot be explained how the cannon had been transported
to Fort Loudon as early as 1756. They could not have been brought
down the Ohio and up the Tennessee, for the French were in pos-
session of the mouth of the Tennessee. The only plausible ex-
planation that can be given is that these cannon were carried across
the mountains from Augusta county when reinforcements were sent
to Fort Loudon, and then along Indian trails upon pack-horses. It
is possible that these cannon were brought from Fort Lewis to the
head waters of the Holston and carried down the same in boats or
canoes to the mouth of the Holston, and thence up the Little Ten-
nessee to Fort Loudon.
It is sad to contemplate the fate of the occupants of this the first
Anglo-American fort established in Tennessee.
It does not appear that the fort at Long Island was permanently
occupied at this time. About this time, large numbers of hunters
from Eastern Virginia, allured by the report of the abundance of
game and the prospect of gain in the western wilderness, organized
themselves into companies, and hunted throughout Southwest Vir-
ginia, East Tennessee and Eastern Kentucky.
The first company of hunters who visited this section, as far as
*Haywoo(i.
76 Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
I can ascertain, was a company organized by Elislia Wallen (from
whom Wallen's Creek and Wallen's Eidge received their names, as
well as Wallen's Station in Lee county), accompanied by Scaggs,
Blevins, Cox and others. They remained eighteen months, during
which time they hunted in Clinch and Powell's Valleys in Virginia,
and Carter's Valley in Tennessee, and went as far as Laurel moun-
tain in Kentucky.
About the same time Daniel Boone, accompanied by several hunt-
ers, visited the Holston and camped the first night in what is now
known as Taylor's Valley. On the succeeding day, they hunted down
the South Fork of Holston river and traveled thence to what was
thereafter known as Wolf Hills, where they encamped the second
night, near where Black's Fort was afterwards built. It is interest-
ing to note at this point that Daniel Boone and his companion, im-
mediately after nightfall, were troubled by the appearance of great
numbers of wolves, which assailed their dogs with such fury that it
was with great difficulty that the hunters succeeded in repelling their
attacks and saving the lives of their dogs, a number of which were
killed or badly crippled by the wolves. The wolves had their home
in the cive that underlies the town of Abingdon. The entrance to
this cave is upon the lot now occupied by the residence of Capt.
James L. White, and it was from this incident that Abingdon re-
ceived its first name, Wolf Hills. Boone and his companion re-
mained at Abingdon for a short while, during which time they dis-
agreed and separated, Boone taking the Indian trail leading to Long
Island, and ISTathaniel Gist, his companion, following the Indian
trail to Cumberland Gap. They did not meet again upon this trip.
On Boon's creek in East Tennessee was found a tree upon which
was found the following inscription: "D. Boon cilled a bar on this
tree in the year 1760"; and near Long Island in Tennessee a tree
was found in recent years upon which was the following inscription :
"D. Boon killa bar on this tree 1773."
A block containing the last inscription was taken from this tree
and is now in possession of Mrs. James W, Preston, of Abingdon,
and establishes the fact that Daniel Boone was upon the waters of
the Holston as early as 1760, and again in 1773.
A treaty of peace was conclwded between the French and English
at Fontainbleau, in 1762, by which the English acquired Canada
and that portion of the Mississippi Valley east of that river, but
Daniel Boone and Boone Trees.
78 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
peace was not concluded with the Indians until the next year. The
Indians had become accustomed to bloodshed and greatly detested
the Anglo-American settlers. They were greatly exasperated by the
cession of Canada to the English and at the French for deserting
them.
The Indians detested the Anglo- American settlers for the very evi-
dent reason that they asserted title to all the lands lying upon the
western waters, were building forts at various places upon the fron-
tiers and manning them with British troops, and because their set-
tlers were occupying the favorite hunting grounds of the Indians.
The Indians, being deprived of the more moderate counsel of their
French allies, therefore became more brutal and savage in their con-
duct towards the settlers, and so active and intelligent were the
Indians in conducting their campaigns against the settlements that
all the land lying along the waters of the Mississippi was depopulated
by July, 1763, except a small settlement at Draper's Meadows, on
New river. The condition of the country at that time is best de-
scribed by a letter of Col. Wm. Preston, which letter is here pub-
lished.
The letter is dated Greenfield, 27th July, 1763. The writer
says : "Our situation at present is very different from what it was
when we had the pleasure of your company in this country. All the
valleys of Eoanoke river and along the waters of the Mississippi are
depopulated, except Captain English with a few families on the New
river, who have built a fort, among whom are Mr. Thompson and his
family, alone remaining. They intend to make a stand till some as-
sistance be sent them. Seventy-fi,ve of the Bedford militia went out
in order to pursue the enemy, but I hear the officers and part of the
men are gone home, and the rest gone to Eeed creek to help in the
family of James Davis and in two or three other families there that
dare not venture to travel.
"I have built a little fort in which are eighty-seven persons, twenty
of whom bear arms. We are in a pretty good posture of defence,
and with the aid of God are determined to make a stand. In five or
six other plades in this part of the country they have fallen into the
same method and with the same resolution. How long we may keep
them is uncertain. No enemy have appeared here as yet. Their
guns are frequently heard and their footing observed, which makes
us believe they will pay us a visit. My two sisters and their families
Southivest Virginia, 1746-1786. 79
are here and all in good health. We bear our misfortunes so far with
* * * and are in hopes of being relieved I have a thousand
things * * * Captain Christian can't wait * * * i give
you joy/' (The asterisks indicate parts of the letter torn out.)
In the year 1760, a party of Indians, numbering eight or ten,
crossed the Blue Eidge and murdered a number of people in Bedford
county, took several women and children prisoners and returned by
way of New river.
A man in the New river settlement, while searching for stray
horses, discovered the Indians eiicamped about six miles from the
New river fort, of which information was given to William Inglis,
who gathered sixteen or eighteen men and proceeded to attack the
Indians, about daybreak the next morning. A considerable battle
followed, in which one white man and seven Indians were killed, the
rest of the Indians making their escape. Capt. Inglis and his men
secured all the provisions and plunder of the Indians.
The western settlements for ten years enjoyed comparative peace
from the Indians. The only trouble they had to contend with was
from parties of thieving Indians that occasionally visited the settle-
ments. The British Government previously to 1763 claimed the
lands lying west of the Alleghany mountains by right of the discov-
ery of John Cabot made in 1497, and at no time recognized the
claims of the Indian inhabitants to these lands.
In the treaty concluded with France in 1762, while France ceded
to England all her rights in this territory, otill no provision was
made for extinguishing the Indian title thereto, and the Indians
denied the right of France to cede England these lands.
In March, 1764, a company of Indians visited the home of David
Cloyd, about five miles west of the present Fincastle, Va., and
tomahawked Mrs. Cloyd, killed John Cloyd, destroyed the entire
household, and carried off a large sum of money that belonged to
David Cloyd. Mrs. Cloyd lived until the next morning and told
all the circumstances connected with the raid. Before dying she
told how an Indian had taken up a cob and wiped the blood from
her temples, exclaiming "Poor old woman !"
This company of Indians were pursued by a company of militia
under Capt. James Montgomery, and one of the Indians was killed
(m John's creek about thirty miles from Cloyd's house, with £137
18s. on his person. A dispute arose among the militia as to the
80 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
ownership of the money and it was deposited in the hands of Capt.
James Montgomery until the matter should be decided.
We here insert a copy of the court records, which best explains
the matter.
In Augusta County Court, August Term, 1766.
David Cloyd * Plaintiff,
vs. Recover goods taken by Indians.
James Montgomery, Defendant.
We agree that a party of Indians made an Irruption into the
Colony, attacked the Plaintiff's House, rifled it and bore off up-
wards of £200 in gold and silver and several household goods and
negroes.
We agree that a party of the militia pursued the enemy and over-
took them on John's creek, a branch of the James river, at the dis-
tance of 30 or 35 miles from the Plaintiff's House, and attacked
and killed one of the number.
We agree that upon searching the Indian's Budgett a quantity of
gold, some dollars and pieces of small silver were found, which
upon being weighed amounted to the sum of £137 18s.
We agree that the money found in the budgett of the Indians
consisted of the same coins whicli the Plaintiff was known to have
in his house when plundered by the Indians.
We agree that after the money was recovered from the Indians a
dispute arose among the militia to whom the money of right be-
longed, whether it should be delivered to the Pltff. who was deeuied
to have been the owner of it before it fell into the hands of the
Indiana, or whether the militia were entitled to it as having recov-
ered it from them, upon which dispute that sum of money was
lodged in the hands of the Defendant to be by him kept till that
point should be settled.
We agree that the Plaintiff made an offer of 30 shillings to each
of the men who had assisted in the pursuit of the Enemy.
We agree that a part of the Company of Militia made an offer
to the Plaintiff of delivering up his* negroes and household goods
if he would allow them the money.
We agree that the Defendant paid the sum of money out of his
hands to the Militia and that several of them returned their divi-
dends to the Plaintiff amounting to the sum of £106.17.2.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 8l
We agree that the Plaintiff paid to several of the captors who
returned him their dividends the sum of 30s. the premium by him
before offered for their service.
We agree that if the law be for the Plaintiff that Judgment be
entered for him for the sum of £31.0.10, if the Law be for the
Defendant we agree that Judgment be entered for him.
Gabriel Jones^ Atty. for Pltff.
Peter Hogg^ Atty. for Deft.
We have no further account of Indians invading Southwest Vir-
ginia, until the year 1764, at which time a party of Indians came
up Sandy and on to New river, where they divided, one party go-
ing towards the settlements at Roanoke and Catawba, the other to
the settlement on Jackson river. The company of Indians that
went towards the Eoanoke settlement were accidentally discovered
by Captain Paul and a company of twenty men, at midnight, on the
New river, near the mouth of Indian creek. Capt. Paul's men fired
upon the Indians, killing three and wounding many others; the
rest fled and escaped. It is hard to depict the effect of these terri-
ble scenes upon the settlers of Western Virginia. iVmong the pri-
soners rescued by Capt. Paul was a Mrs. Green, who knew Capt.
Paul and recognized his voice. She was mistaken for an Indian
squaw by one of Capt. Paul's men, who was in the act of tomahawk-
ing her, when she called the name of Capt. Paul, which saved her
alive.
She was asked why she made no resistance ; to which she replied,
"I would as soon die as not; my husband is murdered, my children
slain, my parents are dead ; I have not a relative in America, every-
thing dear to me is gone. I have no wishes, no hopes, no fears. I
would not rise to my feet to save my life."
The English Government was exceedingly anxious to secure peace
with the Indians, and this year Col. Boquet published a royal
proclamation forbidding the whites to settle or hunt west of the
Alleghany mountains; which read as follows: "And we do strictly
enjoin and require all persons whatsoever, who have, either will-
fully or inadvertently, seated themselves upon any lands within the
Countries above described (West of the Alleghany mountains), or
upon any other lands which not having been ceded to, or purchased
by us, are still reserved to said Indians as aforesaid, forthwith to
83 Southwest Virginia, 111^6-1786.
remove themselves from said settelments." This proclamation was
issued in October, 17G4, but it failed to accomplish the object in
view, and thereupon, in the year 1765, two armed movements were
made into the Indian Territory, the one to Lake Erie and the other
to the Muskingum. Two treaties were made Avith the Indians in
the autumn of this year, one at Niagara and the other at the Mus-
kingum. The treaty signed at the Muskingum was negotiated by
Col. Boquet with the Delaware and Shawnese Indians. At the
time of the signing of this treaty. Col. Boquet received from the
Indians two hundred and six prisoners, ninety Virginians from
West Augusta and one hundred and sixteen Pennsylvanians.
And thus was concluded at the end of ten years of hard fighting
the French-Indian war, which began in 1754.
If the British Government was candid in the promulgation of
the proclamation of 1763, she thereby admitted the claims of the
Indians, and accomplished nothing as a result of the ten years' war
with the French and Indians just closed.
After the publication of this proclamation, the citizens of the
Colonies became criminals when they, in any way, trespassed upon
any of the lands on the waters of the Mississippi. Nevertheless,
the frontier hunters and the western settlers proceeded with their
explorations as if that proclamation had never been issued, and
some historians go as far as to say that even the leading public
men of that day did not consider this proclamation binding, but as
only intended to appease the apprehensions of the Indians, but in
this opinion we cannot join.
Whatever may have been the intention of the proclamation, it is
certain that its effect was to greatly retard the settlements of the
lands west of the mountains.
The "Loyal Land Company" on the 25th day of May, 1763, peti-
tioned the Governor and Council for a renewal and confirmation
of the grant made to them for 800,000 acres of land by the Gov-
ernor and Council of Virginia in 1749, but their petition was de-
nied, upon the ground that they were restricted by his Majesty's
instructions from renewing or confirming the grant. From this
action of the Governor and Council of Virginia, it may be well
said, all the surveys made upon the waters of the Holston and
Clinch rivers by James Patton, Dr. Thomas Walker and others,
and all the patents issued therefor were void, for the reason that
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 83
the King of England had no right to grant to any of his subjects
lands belonging to the Indians.
Nevertheless, Dr. Walker, agent for the "Loyal Land Company,"
and the devisees of Col. James Patton, immediately proceeded to
survey and sell lands upon the waters of the Holston and Clinch
rivers, under their grants, as if they had never been restrained
from so doing by the proclamation of 1763 and by the action of the
Governor and Council of Virginia, and by the 16th day of Decem-
ber, 1773, Dr. Walker, as agent for the "Loyal Company," had
actually surveyed and disposed of to purchasers 1,756 tracts of land
containing 156,164 acres; and this, in addition to the lands sur-
veyed in the years 1753-'54 — making a total of 201,554 acres out
of the 800,000 acres granted.
In the year 1766, Dr. Walker, as agent for the "Loyal Com-
pany," caused advertisements to be distributed through several
of the States, north and south, requesting all persons who had
contracted for any of the company's land and were driven off their
settlements in the former war, to return and claim the same or it
would be sold to others. The Legislature of Virginia, in the fall
of the year 1778, confirmed the acts of Dr. Walker in the premises
to the extent stated, but declined to allow the company any fur-
ther time or to survey any further lands under this grant. At
the same session of the General Assembly of Virginia William Pres-
ton and William Thompson, executors of James Patton, deceased,
were authorized to complete the grant of 120,000 acres of land
made by James Patton, under his grant, and to execute deeds to
the purchasers therefor.
Nathaniel Gist, a noted Indian trader, in the year 1761, pur-
chased from the Cherokee Indians the Great Island lying in the
Holston river, known as Long Island, and claimed the same,
under his grant from the Indians, and in the year 1777 he peti-
tioned the Legislature of Virginia to confirm the title thereto to
him. What action the Legislature took upon this petition cannot
be ascertained, but it may be presumed that the Legislature de-
clined his request, as on the 24th day of June, 1776, the General
Assembly of Virginia, with the approval of the Governor, "Eesolved,
That no purchase of lands within the chartered limits of Virginia
shall be made under any pretense whatever, from any Indian tribe
or nation, without the approval of the Virginia Legislature."
84 Souiliwest Virginia, 17Jf6-178G.
This island was a favorite resort of the Indians, and seemed
to have been anxiously sought after by Eichard Pearis and Na-
thaniel Gist, probably two of the best Indian spies and hunters we
read of in our early history. From the conclusion of the French-
Indian war in December, 1764, until February 13, 1770, nothing
of importance occurred beyond the visits of the Long Hunters and
the surveyors for the land companies, a few settlements being
made.
In the year 1765, John Campbell, who afterwards became clerk
of the County Court of Washington county, visited the waters of
the Holston with Dr. Walker, and purchased for his father, David
Campbell, and himself, from John Buchanan, a large tract of land
near the head waters of the Holston river, containing 740 acres,
called "Eoyal Oak,"* and, being the same tract of land surveyed
V for John Buchanan on the 14th day of October, 1747.
Among the settlers that came this year (1768) was Joseph Mar-
tin, a daring and enterprising backwoodsman. He was accom-
panied by a band of from twenty to thirty men, and led them to
Powell's Valley, now in Lee county, Ya., where they erected a fort
upon the north side of a creek, near two fine springs of water,
which fort and creek were thereafter called Martin's Fort and
Martin's Creek. The shape of the fort was a parallelogram which
enclosed about one-half an acre of ground. There were some five
or six cabins built about twenty feet apart, with strong stockades
between them, and in these stockades there were port-holes. Here
they cleared the land and planted corn and other vegetables. In
the latter part of the summer of this year the Indians broke them
up, and the settlers returned to the waters of the Holston. Mar-
tin's Fort was not occupied after the Eevolutionary War.
Several years thereafter John and Arthur Campbell, accom-
panied by their sister, Margaret, came out and settled at Eoyal
Oak, and in the year 1769 David Campbell, the father, with his
wife and sons, James, David, Eobert and Patrick, and his daugh-
ters, Mary, Martha, Sarah and Ann, came out and settled at the
same place.
In the year 1766, a party of hunters visited the Clinch Valley,
and two of their number, Carr and Butler, decided to remain.
They built a cabin at a place afterwards known as "Crab Or-
*Near Marion, Va.
Southivest Virginia, 17It-6-1786. 85
chard," about three miles west of Tazewell Courthouse. In the
year 1769, Carr separated from Butler and settled on a beautiful
piece of land two miles east of Tazewell Courthouse.
While many prospective settlers visited this section previously
to 1769, but few permanent settlements were made because of the
fact that the Indians claimed, and the English Government ad-
mitted their right to all the lands lying west of the mountains,
but the frontiers were lined with prospective settlers anxious for
an opportunity to take possession of and settle the new land. Great
numbers of emigrants were impatiently waiting along the fron-
tiers for an opportunity to make a rush for new homes on the
waters of the Mississippi.
The British Government recognized the fact that it could not
much longer restrain the people and protect the Indians in their
rights, and early in the spring of 1768 Sir William Johnson was
directed by the home government to negotiate a treaty with the
Delaware and the Shawnese Indians. John Stuart, the superintend-
ent of Indian affairs, about the same time was directed to negotiate
a treaty with the Southern Indians, extinguishing their rights to
the much-desired land. Sir William Johnson, pursuant to order,
appointed a Congress for the meeting of the Six Rations with the
commissioners of Virginia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, at Port
Stanwix, near Oswego, ISTew York, on October 24, 1768. The Con-
gress met pursuant to order, and on Kovember 5, 1768, a treaty
was negotiated with the Indians, by* which they conveyed unto the
British Sovereign, Lord King George III, all of a certain tract of
land situated in North Am.erica at the back of the British settle-
ments, tlie deed being in the words and figures following, to-wit:
To ALL to whom these presents may come, or may concern : We
the Sachems & Chiefs of the Six United Nations and of the Shaw-
nese, Delawares, Mingoes, of Ohio and other dependent Tribes, on
behalf of ourselves and the rest of our several Nations, the Chiefs
and Warriors who are now here convened by Sir William Johnson,
Baronet, His Majesty's Superintendent of our Affairs, send greet-
ing. Whereas His Majesty was graciously pleased to propose to us
in the year 1765, that a Boundary line should be fixed between the
English and us, to ascertain and establish our limits and prevent
those encroachments of which we have so long and so loudly com-
plained, and to put a stop to the many fraudulent advantages
86 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
which had been so often taken of us in Land affairs, which Bound-
ary appearing to us as a wise and good measure, we did then agree
to a part of a line and promised to settle the whole finally whenso-
ever Sir Wm. Johnson should be fully empowered to trade with us
for that purpose. And whereas his said Majesty has at length given
Sir William Jolinson orders, Sir William Johnson has convened
the Chiefs and Warriors of our respective Nations, who are the true
and absolute proprietors of the lands in question and who are here
now to a very considerable number, and whereas many uneasinesses
and doubts have arisen amongst us, which have given rise to appre-
hension that the line may not be strictly observed on the part of
the English, in which case matters might be worse than before,
which apprehensions together with the dependent state of some of
our Tribes, and other circumstances which retarded the settlement
and became the subject of some debate. Sir Wm. Johnson has at
length so far satisfied us as to induce us to come to an agreement
concerning the line, which brought to a conclusion. The whole
being explained to us in a large assembly of our people, and before
Sir William Johnson, and in the presence of his Excellency the
Governor of New Jersey, the Commissioners for the Provinces
of Virginia and Pennsylvania, and sundry other gentlemen, by
which line, so agreed upon, a considerable tract of country along
several provinces is to be thus ceded to his Majesty which we are
induced to and do ratify and confirm to his said Majesty, from the
expectation and confidence we place in his royal goodness, and he
will graciously comply with our humble request, as the same is
expressed in the speech of the several Nations addressed to his Ma-
jesty through Sir William Johnson, on Tuesday the first of the pres-
ent month of November, wherein we have declared our expectations
of the continuance of his Majesty's favor, and our desire that our
ancient engagements be observed and our affairs attended to by
the officer who has the management thereof, enabling him to dis-
charge all these matters propefly for our interest. That the land_s
occupied by the Mohocks around their villages, as well as by any
other Nation affected by this our cession, may effectually remain
to them and to their posterity, and that any engagements regard-
ing property that they may now be under, may be prosecuted and
our present grants deemed valid on our parts, with the several other
humble requests contained in our speech. And whereas at the set-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 87
tling of the said line, it appears that the line described by his
Majesty's order, was not extended Northward of Oswego, or to
the Southward of Great Kanawha Eiver, we have agreed to con-
tinue the line to the Northward, on the supposition that it was omit-
ted by reason of our not having come to any determination con-
cerning its course at the Congress held in 1765, inasmuch as the
"line to the Northward became the most necessary of any for pre-
venting the encroachments at our very towns and residences, and
we have given this line more favorable to Pennsylvania for the
reasons and considerations mentioned in the treaty. We have like-
wise continued it South to Cherokee River,"* because the same is
and we do declare it to be our true bounds with the Southern In-
dians, and that we have undoubted right to the country as far south
as that River, which makes our cession to his Majesty much more
advantageous than that proposed.
Now THEREFOKE KNOW YE, that we, the Sachems and Chiefs
beforementioned, native Indians and proprietors of the lands here-
inafter described, for and in behalf of ourselves and the whole of
our Confederacy, for the consideration hereinbefore mentioned
and also for and in consideration of a valuable present of the sev-
eral articles in use and among the Indians, which, together with a
large sum of money, amounting in the whole to the sum of £10,460
7s 3 pence, sterling, to us now delivered and paid by Sir William
Johnson, Baronet, his Majesty's Sole Agent and Superintendent of
Indian Affairs, for the Northern Department of America, in the
name and on behalf of our Sovereign Lord, George Third, by the
grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, De-
fender of the Faith, the receipt whereof we do hereby acknowledge,
we the said Indians have for us, our heirs and successors, granted,
bargained, sold, released and confirmed, and by these presents, do
grant, bargain, sell, release and confirm, unto our said Sovereign
Lord, King George Third, all that tract of land situated in North
America at the back of the British settlements bounded by a line
which we have now agreed upon, and do hereby establish as the
boundary between us and the British Colonies in America, begin-
ning at the mouth of the Cherokee or Hogohegee River, where it
empties into the River Ohio, and running from thence along the
Southern side of the said River to Kittanning, which is above Fort
*Holston river.
88 Southtvest Virginia,, 17JfG-17S0.
Pitt, from thence by a direct line to the nearest fork of the West
Branch of the Susquehanna, thence through the Alleghany Moun-
tains along the Southern side of the said West Branch until it
comes opposite to the mouth of a creek called Tiadgton, thence
across the West Branch, and along the South Side of that
creek and along the North side of the Burnett Hills to a creek
called Awandae, thence down the same to the East side of that
Eiver to Oswego, from thence East to the Delaware Kiver, and up
that Eiver to opposite where Tianadhera flows into the Susquehanna,
thence to Tianahedra and up the West side thereof, and the West
side of its West Branch to the head thereof, and thence by a direct
line to Canada Creek, where it empties into the Wood Creek at the
West End of the carrying place, beyond Fort Stanwix, and extend-
ing Eastward from every part of the said line as far as the lands
formerly purchased so as to comprehend the whole of the lands or
settlement, except what is within the Province of Pennsylvania, to-
gether with the hereditaments, and appurtenances to the same be-
longing or appertaining in tlie fullest and most ample manner,
and all the Estate, Eight, Title, Interest, Property, possession,
Benefit and claim and demand, either in law or equity, of each and
every one of us, in and of the same, or any part thereof, to liave and
to hold, the whole lands and premises hereby granted, bargained,
sold, released and confirmed as aforesaid with the hereditaments
and appurtenances thereunto belonging, under the reservations
made in the Treaty, unto our Sovereign Lord, King George Third,
his heirs and successors to and for his and their behoof forever.
In witness whereof, we the Chiefs of the Confederacy, have
hereunto set our marks and seals at Fort Stanwix, the 5th day of
November, 1768, in the 9th year of his Majesty's reign.
Signed, Sealed and delivered.
In presence of
Sir William Franklin, Gov. N. J.
Fred Smith, Chief Justice,
Thos. Walker, Commiss'r from Va.
Eichard Peters, ) of the Council,
James Tilghman, j
His
Texanasore, or Abraham, [L. S.]
Mark.
Southwest
Virginia^
1H6-1786.
His
Conaquieso,
Mark.
His
Sugnaregsora,
Mark.
His
Blunt or Chenngliita,
Mark.
His
Tigaya,
'
Mark.
His
Gostrave,
Mark.
89
[L. S.]
[L. S.]
[L. S.]
[L. S.]
[L. S.]
This Congress was attended by 3,200 Indians of the different
tribes composing the Six Nations, and thns the title of the North-
ern Indians to all the territory included within Washington coun-
ty was extinguished.
The Confederacy of the Six Nations claimed, by right of con-
quest, title to the lands thus ceded. About the year 1685 this Con-
federacy of Indians overran and conquered all the country south-
wards from the Ohio as far south as Georgia and as far west as the
Mississippi. An immense territory, 1,300 miles long and 600 miles
broad.
It will be observed from an inspection of this deed that Dr.
Thomas Walker was the Virginia Commissioner at this Congress,
and he was beyond question interested in the successful negotiation
of this treaty, not only in behalf of Virginia, but to a greater
extent in behalf of the "Loyal Land Company," of which he was a
part owner and the agent. Nothing was of greater importance to the
"Loyal Land Company" than the extinguishment of the title of the
Indians to the lands on the western waters, out of which they had
a grant for 800,000 acres of land, and from the prosecution of their
work in surveying, settling and selling the same, they had been re-
90 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
strained and prohibited by the King's proclamation in 17G3, and
by the action of the Governor and the Council of Virginia.
About the same time John Stuart, Superintendent of Indian
Affairs in the South, concluded a treaty with the Cherokee Indians
in the absence of Dr. Walker, by which the British Crown acquired
the right to all the land lying east of a straight line passing by
Chiswell's mine, on the eastern bank of the Great Kanawha* Eiver,
and from Chiswell's mine on the eastern bank of the river in a
straight line to the confluence of the Great Conhoway in Ohio.
The Commissioner of Indian Affairs communicated the result of
the treaty to the Governor of Virginia by letter, which letter is
as follows:
Hard Labor, Oct. 17, 1768.
Sir:
I have the honor to acquaint you in obedience to his Majesty's
commands, on the 13th curr't, I met at this place all the principal
Chiefs of the upper and lower Cherokee Nations, and on the 14th
by his Majesty's royal authority concluded the Treaty with said
Indians, ratifying the cession of land lying within the Provinces of
South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia by them to his Ma-
jesty and His heirs forever, and confirming the Boundary line
marked by the Lords Commissioners of Trade and Plantations, ac-
cording to the several agreements entered into with said Indians.
The line now ultimately confirmed and ratified by said Treaty was
as follows:
Prom the place called Towahilie, on the Northern Branch of the
Savannah Eiver, a North 50 degrees East course in a straight line,
to a place called Dewisses corner, or yellow water, from Dewisses,
or yellow water, a North 50 degrees East course in a straight line to
the south bank of Eeedy Elver, at a place called Wanghoe, or Elm
Tree, where the line behind Carolina terminates. From a place
called Wanghoe, or Elm Tree, to the South Bank of Eeedy Eiver, a
course in a straight line to a mountain called Tagon Mountain where
the great ridge of the mountains becomes impervious. In a straight
line to Chiswell's mine on the Eastern Bank of the Great Conhoway
Eiver, to a N. B. E. course, and from Chiswell's mine on the East-
ern Bank of the Great Conhoway in a straight line to a North course
*New River.
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 91
to the confluence of the Great Conhoway with the Ohio. As soon
as possible after my return to Charlestown I shall send you extracts
of my conference and an authentic copy of the above mentioned
Treaty concluded with said Chiefs. I acquainted the Chiefs that I
expected their Deputies to set out immediately from this place
with my Deputy to meet your Commissioners at Colonel Chis-
well's Mine in order to finish marking the Boundary line, as agreed
upon, but they objected, and desired that that service might be de-
ferred till the spring of next year. The reasons they urged for
this delay are as follows : That when they set the 10th of Novem-
ber for the time of meeting your Commissioners to proceed upon
that important service, they understood that they had no more to
mark than from the mountains where the line behind North Caro-
lina was, to Chiswell's Mine on the Conhoway, as they considered
the river from there to its confluence with the Ohio as a natural
Boundary. But as the line is to run in a straight line, almost due
North from the Mine, to the mouth of the river, the advanced
season of the year will render that service impracticable until the
Spring, as the line now ultimately agreed upon runs through a
large extent of mountainous country, uninhabited, where in the
winter the cold will be extremely intense, and there will be no shel-
ter for men, nor food for horses at that season. The reasons ap-
peared to me so just and good, that I was obliged to acquiesce in
them, and I send this letter by Express to prevent, as much as pos-
sible, any disappointment that may result from this alteration. I
hope you will receive it in time to prevent your Commissioners
from setting out. The Chiefs have appointed the 10th of May next
for meeting your Commissioners at Chiswell's Mine, which I hope
will prove agreeable and their reasons for altering the time satis-
factory to you. I reproached the Cherokees severely for the mur-
der of flve emigrants from your provinces, who were going to the
Mississippi, which was committed in the summer last. They con-
fessed it and said the perpetrators were a party, of Chilhowie peo-
ple who urged in their own defence, that their relations had been
killed in Augusta County, in the province, in 1765, for which they
had never received any satisfaction although repeated promises
had been made either of putting the guilty persons to death, or
making a compensation in goods from your province, which they
believed, because I had confirmed them. That they nevertheless
92 Southivest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
were disappointed, and being tired with waiting, took that satis-
faction which they could not obtain from our justice. All the
warriors declared that they disapproved of the action, but that the
Chilhowie people were authorized by the custom of their country to
act as they did, and their idea of never having received any satisfac-
tion was undeniable ; that in any other instance nothing should pre-
vent their executing strict justice according to Treaties. It is
not only extremely disagreeable to myself, but very detrimental to
his Majesty's service, to be obliged to fail in any promise I make
to Indians. The compensation of 500 Indian dressed Deer skins
value in goods for every person murdered, which on the faith of
Gov. Fauquier's repeated letters, I engaged them to receive, early in
the Spring, was extremely moderate, and this you will acknowledge
if you will compare it with the sum expended by the Province of
Pennsylvania, on a late similar occasion. And I must confess that
this disappointment will render me extremely cautious in making
promises on any future occasion.
I am to meet the Chiefs of the Upper and Lower Creek Nations
at Silver Bluff on Savannah Eiver, the first of November, to ratify
the cessions to his Majesty in the two Floridas and Georgia, and
expect to be at Charlestown by the time the bearer can return there.
I have the honor of being, very respected Sir,
Your most obedient and very humble servant,
John Stuart.
It will be observed from a perusal of the above letter that the
superintendent contemplated the running of the line, as fixed by
the treaty, immediately, but the Indians insisted upon postponing
the time for running this line till the 10th day of May, 1769.
This treaty gave great dissatisfaction to the Colony of Virginia
and to Dr. Walker, the agent for the "Loyal Land Company," for,
at the time the treaty was negotiated, hundreds of settlers had fixed
their homes on the lands west of the line as fixed, and not only had
many settlers occupied portions of these lands, but Dr. Walker as
agent for the "Loyal Land Company," and Col. James Patton's
representatives, had actually surveyed and sold large and numer-
ous tracts of land lying in the present counties of Pulaski, Wythe,
Smyth f^nd Washington, and west of the line fixed by this treaty.
The result of this treaty gave the Indians an excuse for depredating
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 93
on the settlers, and the settlers were forced to the necessity of
denying the rights of the Cherokee Indians to the lands thus set-
tled.
The settlers on Holston denied the right of the Cherokees to the
lands included within this county, and under the claim that the
lands belonged to the Confederacy of the Six Nations, they held
possession of their lands and continued their settlements. Dr.
Thomas Walker acted as the Virginia representative in the mak-
ing of the treaty at Fort Stanwix in the fall of the year 1768 and,
by December of that year, had communicated the result to the
emigrants along the borders, and no longer could the settlement of
this country be postponed. In the winter of 1768 and the early
part of the year 1769, a great flood of settlers overran Southwestern
Virginia and advanced as far south as Boone's Creek in East Ten-
nessee.
The one settler who ventured farthest into the wilderness was
Captain William Bean, who, with his family, settled on Boone's
Creek, early in the year 1769. His son, Russell Bean, was the first
white child 1)orn in Tennessee.
When Col. William Byrd visited the Long Island in 1760, two
men, by name Gilbert Christian and William Anderson, accompa-
nied his regiment. In this year, 1769, Christian and Anderson de-
termined to explore this western wilderness, and, in company with
Col. John Sawyers and four others, they crossed the North Fork
of the Holston river at Cloud's Fort in Tennessee and explored the
wilderness as far as Big Creek, now a part of Hawkins county,
where they met a large body of Indians, at which point they deter-
mined to return to their homes.
About twenty miles above Cloud's Fort, on the North Fork,
they found a cabin on every spot where the range was good, where
only six weeks before nothing was to be seen but a howling wilder-
ness. When they passed by before, on their outward destination,
they found no settlers on Holston, save three families on the head
springs of that river.
Just preceding this inrush of settlers, a young Englishman by
the name of Smith visited this section of Virginia and describes
the country, as he found it, in such an excellent manner that I
here copy in full his remarks upon the appearance of the country,
as well as the daily journal which he kept. When he had reached
94 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
the summit of the mountains above New river, he thus speaks of
the view presented :
"Language fails in attempting to describe this most astounding
and almost unbounded prospective. The mind was filled with a
reverential awe, but at the same time the ideas, and I had almost
said soul, were sensibly enlarged. The reflection on our own little-
ness did not diminish our intellectual faculties nor consequences,
and the mind would boldly soar over the vast extent of the earth
and water around, and even above the globe itself, to contemplate
and admire the amazing works of the great Creator of all.
In short, the strong, mighty, pointed and extended sensations of
the mind at this astonishing period are far beyond the power of
human language to describe or convey any idea of.
On the northwest you will observe with great astonishment and
pleasure the tremendous and abrupt break in the Alleghany moun-
tains, through which pass the mighty waters of New river and the
Great Kanawha.
On the west you can very plainly discover the three forks or
branches of the Holston, where they break through the great Al-
leghany mountains, forming striking and awful chasms.
And still beyond them you may observe Clinch river, or Pelli-
sippi; that it is almost equal to all three branches of the Holston.
Throughout the whole of this amazing and most extensive per-
spective there is not the least feature or trace of art or improve-
ments to be discovered.
All are the genuine effects of nature alone, and laid down on her
most extended and grandest scale.
Contemplating them fills the eye, engrosses the mind and en-
larges the soul. It totally absorbs the senses, overwhelms all the
faculties, expands even the grandest ideas beyond all conception
and causes you almost to forget that 5'^ou are a human creature."
He then proceeds to give the details of his journey through this
section of Virginia :
"We descended the moimtain, and halted for the night on the
side of a large rivulet, which we conjectured to be either Little
river itself, or some of the waters of it, having crossed the Blue
ridge at a most disagreeable and dangerous gap in the afternoon.
Next morning we set out early and traveled down the north side
Soufhwest Virginia, 17ji.6-1786. 95
of the rivulet, which we found to be Little river, until we arrived
at New river and at last came to the ford.
The New river is broad, deep and rapid, frequently impassable
and always dangerous.
However, we crossed it in safety, though with great difficulty and
hazard of being carried down with the stream, and we looked out
for a convenient spot on the west side, where we now are, to re-
main for the night. The low ground on New river is narrow, but
exceedingly rich and fertile ; the high land is also very fine in many
places, but excessively broken, rocky and mountainous.
The timber on the high land is very large and lofty, and that on
the low ground is almost equal to the prodigious heavy trees on the
Eoanoke river.
The extreme roughness of this country and the diflSculty of ac-
cess to it, the roads, or rather paths, being not only almost impas-
sable, but totally impossible ever to be rendered even tolerable by
any human efl^orts, will not only greatly retard the settlement of
this country, but will always reduce the price and value of the land,
be it ever so rich and fertile.
In the morning our horses and ourselves being very much re-
freshed, we set out again on our journey, and, after traveling ten
or twelve miles, crossed a pretty large water course named Peaks'
creek, and soon afterwards a large branch of Eeed creek.
In the afternoon we crossed another great ridge of the Alleghany
mountains at a gap, and in the evening came to the waters of
the Middle Fork of the Holston, where we halted for the night,
having traveled this day nearly fifty miles and over a vast quan-
tity of excellent land.
Next morning we pursued our journey and traveled down the
side of the Middle Fork of the Holston, which we crossed no less
than three times this day, and at night came to Stalnaker's, where
a few people, indeed all the inhabitants, had also erected a kind of
wretched stockade fort for protection against the Indians ; but they
had all left it a few days before our arrival and returned to their
respective homes.
Here we remained for two days at the old Dutchman's house
for rest and refreshment for ourselves and horses, which we had
really very much need of, and also to make inquiry concerning
our future route.
96 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
The land on the Holston is certainly excellent and fertile in the
highest degree; the climate also is delightful.
But the value of the estates here cannot be considerable for many
years — perhaps centuries to come; for the same roughness that has
been mentioned to affect those on New river.
Here we gained intelligence of a nearer way to Kentucky than
that commonly made use of, which had very lately been discovered,
viz. : by crossing Clinch river about sixty miles from Stalnaker's,
going over the great ridge of the Alleghany, or Appalachian moun-
tains, at a gap which had been used only by a few of the best hunters,
and falling down on the waters of the Warrior's branch, a river
that runs into Kentucky. With this route pretty exactly laid down,
we set out from the Dutchman's house on the third morning after
our arrival, and, after traveling over a vast quantity of exceedingly
strong, rich land covered with lofty timber, we reached the banks
of the Nortli Branch of the Holston, crossed the river, and put up
for the night, having traveled that day more than thirty miles.
The ford of this branch of the Holston is, if possible, worse than
any we have hitherto met with, and is indeed extremely dangerous,
but we were so familiarized to danger and fatigue as to regard any-
thing of that nature but little.
On the next morning we set out on our journey by the route
which we had been directed to pursue, and at noon arrived at the
summit of a vast chain of mountains which separates the north
branch of the Holston from the Clinch river.
Here we had the pleasure of enjoying an extensive, wild and
romantic view, particularly that stupendous ridge of the Alleghany,
or Appalachian mountains, which is the chief and most lofty of
the whole.
It was rendered more interesting to me by reflecting that I must
cross it on my journey, our route being directly over it. We made
no unnecessary delay, however, on this commanding spot, but de-
scended the mountain and pursued with all the expedition we
could ; and we arrived on the banks of Clinch river late that even-
ing, so that we could not venture to cross the ford that night.
In the morning we undertook the hazardous task of fording
Clinch river, and accomplished it after several plunges, as usual,
over our heads: neither did we halt to dry our clothes until noon,
when we rested at the side of a savannah (meadow) ; here we re-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 97
mained for two hours, and then arose exceeding!}^ refreshed, and
jnirsned our journey.
On the evening we had reached half way up the stupendous west-
ernmost ridge of the Alleghany mountains, the last, greatest and
loftiest of the whole.
Here we remained all night, concluding to attempt the steepest
and most difficult ascent in the morning. We always alighted, and
led our horses up these jjrodigious and perilous ascents.
We pursued our journey up the mountain next morning, hut the
sun was several hours high before we could possibly reach the sum-
mit.
This ridge of the Alleghany mountains is indeed of a most stu-
pendous and astonishing height, and conunands a prospect propor-
tionately extensive.
I took a retrospective view, with satisfaction and pleasure, of the
vast chain of mountains beyond Clinch river, which I had crossed,
and I looked forward, with interested anxiety and eagerness, toward
the great ridge of mountains which I had still to pass over.
The summit of this ridge is the most lofty of all the Alleghany,
is nearly a mile wide, and consists of excellent strong, rich land
of a deep red or a dark reddish-brown color, with very large, tall
timber; and there are springs of water almost on the very summit
of the mountains. When we rested that night we were on the
waters of Warrior's branch."
We give no more of this diary, for our traveler has now passed
beyond the limits of the original bounds of W^ashington county.
The Governor of Virginia, upon the receipt of the letter from
John Stuart, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, immediately set
about to undo what had been done by the treaty at Hard Labor,
S. C. He thereupon commissioned Colonel Andrew Lewis and Dr.
Thomas Walker to visit the Indians and secure a new line from
them. On the 5th day of January, 1769, they began their journey
t(y&(f^^ Carolina for the purpose of seeing the Indians and nego-
tiating with them. Dr. Walker and Colonel Lewis returned to their
homes in the month of February and made a report to Lord Bote-
tourt, which report we here copy in full, as it is very interesting,
and explains fully what was done :
My Lord, — On receiving your Excellency's instructions, we be-
98 Southwest Virginia, 1H6-1786.
gan our journey to Charlestown, South Carolina; on the fifth day
of January, we waited on his Excellency, William Tryon, Esq., at
Brunswick, by whom we were kindly received and promised all the
assistance in his power ; on the next day we went to Fort Johnson,
near the mouth of Cape Fear Eiver.
On the 8th, Gov. Tryon wrote us that some Cherokee Indians
were at Brunswick, that Judds Friend and Salue, or the Young
warrior of Estitoe, were two of them, and that they would wait up
at Fort Jolmston. His Excellency was again invited to go with
them. On their arrival we informed them we were going to their
father, John Stuart, Esq., on business relative to the Nation, and
should be glad to have their company, and they readily agreed to
come with us. On the 9th the ofiicer we had engaged was ready to
sail, and we embarked with the two Cherokee Chiefs, two Squaws
and an Interpreter. On the 11th, we waited on Mr. Stuart, de-
livered your Lordship's letter and full information of our business.
In answer Mr. Stuart told us that the Boundary between the
Cherokees and Virginia was fully settled and ratified in Great
Britain, and that any proposal of that kind would be very alarming
to them, but after some time agreed that we might mention it to
them, which we did on the 13th of Jan'y. The Indian Chiefs ap-
peared much pleased, and agreed to wait on Mr. Stuart with us, and
in his presence, Judds Friend spoke as follows :
Father, — On an invitation from Governor Tryon, we left our
country some time since; Our two elder Brothers, Col. Lewis and
Doctor Walker, from Virginia, who had matters of importance to
mention to us, that equally concerned our people as well as theirs.
His news gave us great joy, and we lost no time in waiting on them,
and with great pleasure took passage with them in order to wait
on you on the business which was much concerning us, as well as
their people, and to convince you that we like their talk, we now take
them by the hand giving them a welcome, and present them with
this string of Wampum.
Father, — They tell us that by running the line lately mentioned,
as a boundary between our people and Virginia, a great number of
their people will fall within the bounds of our country, which
would greatly distress these our poor Brothers; which is far from
our intention. And to evidence to you, that we are on all occasions,
willing to testify our brotherly affection towards them, we are
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 99
heartily willing to join in any such negotiations as may be thought
necessary and most expedient for fixing a new Boundary, that may
include all those people settled in our lands in the bounds of Vir-
ginia, and we now give them in the presence of you our Father, this
string of Wampum as an assurance that those people shall remain
in peaceable possession of those lands, until a treaty is held for fix-
ing a new Boundary, between them and our people.
Gives a string of Wampum.
We then delivered the following Talk to the Warriors, to be by
them communicated to their Nation.
To the Chiefs of the CheroTcees:
Brothers, — On the 20th day of December last, being in Williams-
burg, we received instructions from Lord Botetourt, a great and
good man, whom the great King George has sent to preside over his
Colony of Virginia, directing us to wait on your father, John Stu-
art, Esq., Supt. Indian Affairs, in order to have a plan agreed
upon for fixing a new Boundary between your people and his
Majesty's subjects in the Colony of Virginia. On our way to the
place, to our great joy, we met with our good brothers, Judds
Friend and the Warrior of Estitoe, who with great readiness took
a passage with us from Governor Tryon, to this place where we had
the happiness to wait upon your father, Mr. Stuart, and with joint
application, represented to him the necessity of taking such meas-
ures as may effectually prevent any misunderstanding that might
arise between his Majesty's subjects of the Colony of Virginia and
our brothers the Cherokees, until a full treaty be appointed and
held for the fixing a new Boundary that may give equal justice and
satisfaction to the parties concerned, and that his Majesty's sub-
jects, now settled on the lands between Chiswell's Mines, and the
Great Island of Holston River, remain in peaceable possession of
said lands, until a line is run between them and our good brothers
the Cherokees, who will receive full satisfaction for such lands as
you, our brothers, shall convey to our Great King for the use of his
subjects. I
Your Father, Mr. Stuart's, message to you on this head, makes it
needless for us to say any more on this subject. He will let you,
at a proper time, know both the time and place where this great
work shall be brought into execution. We have the pleasure to
100 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
inform j'oii that 3'our two great Warriors now present, have heartily
concurred with us in every measure and make no doubt of such
measures giving great satisfaction to the whole Nation.
Gave a string of Wampum.
Jan. 16th. In answer to which, Judds Friend and the Warrior
of Estitoe spoke as follows :
Father: and our Brothers from Virginia, — We have heard your
Talks, which we think very good, and shall with all convenient
speed return to our Nation, and when our Chiefs are assembled
shall lay these Talks before them.
Brothers, — We are sorry to have it to say, that for some time bad
blood and evil actions prevailed amongst us, which occasioned a
stroke from our Elder Brothers; but now we have the satisfaction
of telling you that our hands are good and straight, and you may de-
pend on their continuing so, and, that you may depend the more on
what we say, we take off these black beads from the end of
this string, that nothing may remain but what is pure and white,
and now put the black beads in your hands, which we call the re-
mains of our evil thoughts, and desire you may now cast them
away, that they may never be had in remembrance more.
Brothers, — We shall with great pleasure comply with the request
that yon have made with regard to the lands you have mentioned,
and shall wait with impatience for a general meeting, that we may
have opportunity for convincing our Elder Brothers of our friendly
disposition towards them, as we may be of real use to them, for to
us it is of little or none, as we never hunt there; the deer do not
live in the mountains, and you, in the meantime, may depend that
your people shall enjoy peaceable possession until we make a
Treaty with the Great King.
Brothers, — We hope the measures now taken will be productive of
many advantages to our people, as well as those who by living so
much nearer to us, will have it in their power to supply us with
goods, for we are often imposed upon greatly, as we have no trade
at present but with this Province, and we hope you, our Brothers,
will signify to your Governor, whom we believe to be that great
and good man you mention, our great desire to have a trade with
Virginia, that after this business is happily finished, which we
make no doubt of on the part of our Nation, we may enjoy a
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 101
friendly intercourse and have an advantageous trade with our
Brothers, the Inhabitants of Virginia.
Brothers, — We have often joined you in war against your ene-
mies and you may always depend on our assistance on any future
occasion.
Gives a string of Wampum.
After we had given Mr. Stuart the reasons for thinking it ab-
solutely necessary that the new Boundary should be agreed upon,
he desired us to commit these reasons in writing and sign them:
which we did in the following words :
Sir, — His Excellency, the Eight Honorable ISTorborne, the Lord
Botetourt, Governor in Chief of the Colony of Virginia, and the
King's Coimcil of that Dominion, having ordered us to wait on you
and assist in settling the Boundary line between that Colony and
the Cherokee Indians, we beg leave to inform you that the line pro-
posed to be marked from Chiswell's Mines to the confluence of the
Great Kanawha and the Ohio, would be a great disadvantage to
the Crown of Great Britain, and would injure many subjects of
Britain that now inhabit that part of the frontier, and have in mak-
ing that settlement complied with every known rule of government
and the laws of that Colony.
Lands were first granted on the waters of the Mississippi by Sir
William Gooch of Virginia, and the Council about the year 1746,
in consequence of instructions from England, and many families
settled on the lands so granted. In the year 1752, the Legislature
of Virginia passed an act to encourage settlers on the waters of the
Mississippi. By that act they were exempted from the payment of
taxes for ten years. To this act his late Majesty, of glorious mem-
ory, gives assent. The next year another act was passed, by which
five years' indulgence was added, and in that or the succeeding
year Eobert Dinwiddle, Esq., Governor of Virginia at that time,
received instructions from King George 2nd. to grant lands on
these waters, exempted from the payment of the usual right money
and free from Quit-rents for ten years.
Under these encouragements was that part of the Colony settled.
Whilst the inhabitants were settling on these lands, the Cherokee
Indians were frequently at their habitations, and never that we,
either of us, ever heard made the slightest complaint of our settling,
102 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
or laid any claim to the lands we settled, until ISTovember, 1763,
after the King's proclamation issued in that year.
The Six Nations both claimed the lands that were settled on the
branches of the rivers Kanawha and Monongahely and were paid
a proper consideration for them at Lancaster, in 1744, when they
executed a deed of cession to his late Majesty.
We flatter ourselves that the above is sufiScient to convince you
of the justice and legality of making those settlements. The
Boundary line that has been proposed would include many of the
inhabitants above mentioned within the limits of the Cherokee
Hunting Grounds. For all such lands and improvements, the jus-
tice of the crown would be an inducement to make some satisfac-
tion to the owners which would be expense to the crown and injure
the inhabitants much and totally ruin many of them, and the
evil would be increased by the loss of the Quit-rents paid for
these lands, and would also give the Cherokees a large tract of coun-
try that was never claimed by them and now is the property of the
crown, as Sir William Johnson actually purchased it of the Six
United Nations of Indians at a very considerable expense, and
took a deed of cession from them at Fort Stanwix, near the head
of Mohock's Eiver, on the 5th day of November last.
The interest of the crown and the inhabitants of Virginia will
be most served by fixing the Boundary with the Cherokees in 36°
30m. North Latitude, that Boundary being already marked by proper
authority as far as Steep Eock Creek, a branch of the Cherokee
Eiver, and is the proper division between Lord Granville's Pro-
prietary and the Dominion of Virginia, and includes but a small
part of the lands now claimed by the Cherokees, they having often
disclaimed the lands lying between the Ohio and a ridge of moun-
tains called Sheep Eidge, that divides the waters of the Cumber-
land Eiver from those of the Cherokee Eiver. This boundary will
give room to extend our settlements for ten or twelve years, will
raise a considerable sum by the Eights, much increase* the Quit-
rents, and enable the Inhabitants of Virginia to live thus manu-
facturing such material as they raise.
ANDREV7 LeWIS^
Thomas Walker.
Feb. 2nd. 1769.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. * 103
Thus it will appear that Colonel Lewis and Dr. Walker suc-
ceeded in securing from the Indian chiefs the assurance that the
settlers on the land in Southwest Virginia should remain in
peaceable possession of their homes until a treaty could be held fix-
ing new bounds between them. Acting upon this assurance, emigra-
tion to the land continued, and during this year James Bryan
settled near the present residence of Captain Kendrick, Moab, Va.,
and erected Bryan's Fort, William Cocke settled upon Spring creek,
then called Eenfro's creek, and erected Cocke's fort, near the present
residence of C. L. Clyce. Anthony Bledsoe settled in the lower end
of this county about thirty miles east of Long Island, on the Fort
Chiswell road, and afterwards built Bledsoe's Fort. Amos Eaton
settled seven miles east of Long Island, where Eaton's Fort was
afterwards built, and by the beginning of the year 1770 there were
many settlers upon Holston.
The first settlers of the Liberty Hall neighborhood were the
Edmistons, Moores and Buchanans. The first name was written ?'
Edmiston until sixty or seventy years ago. All the land from (
Liberty Hall to some distance east of Friendship was held by j
William Edmiston under a grant from Charles II, King of Eng-
land, and under the King's proclamation of 1763, Edmiston being
an officer in the French-Indian war of 1754-1763.
Fort Edmiston was built by the settlers as a protection against
the Indians, who made frequent inroads on the settlements. As
nearly as can be learned, it was built about 1765.
The site was about three hundred yards east of Liberty Academy.
The old Keys' dwelling, now owned by William Snodgrass, stands
on the site of the old fort. A soldier by the name of Edmiston
died at the fort and was the first person buried in the old Moore
graveyard.
The Indians made frequent attacks on the fort and, in one, cap-
tured and carried off a Miss Steele. The Indians were followed by
parties from the fort, and she was recaptured on Walker's moun-
tain. She was traced by means of twigs, which she had presence
of mind enough to break off along the road.
Several persons from the fort were in the battle at King's Moun-
tain, among whom were the eight Edmistons and William Moore.
Several of the former were killed. They were the ancestors of
<he Edmondsons of this day.
104 • Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
Fort Edmiston was one of the first forts erected in this section.
Fort Thompson, six miles northeast of Liberty Hall, on the Huff,
formerly the Byars place, was erected about the same time. It was
named for Captain James Thompson, who owned the property at
that time, and it remained many years after the revolution.
Tradition says Fort Edmiston ceased to exist about the year
1800.
The first settlers in Widener's Valley were John Widener, Paul-
ser Eouse and John Jones. They came from Germany, a few years
prior to the Eevolutionary War, or about 1767. They first settled
in Pennsylvania, but afterwards came to this country and settled
temporarily near Fort Thompson. x\fter remaining there a short
time, they removed to the valley. John Widener located near W.
M. Widener's mill, and Jones and Eouse in the lower end of the
valley.
In order to raise money to get away from Germany, John
Widener pawned or bartered his son Mike, a boy twelve or four-
teen years old. John Widener found employment in Pennsylvania,
and earned money enough to redeem Mike. Mike tlien followed
his father to the New World. He arrived just about the commence-
ment of the revolution, joined Washington's army, was a brave sol-
dier, acted as interpreter when the Hessians were captured, and
appears to have been a favorite of Washington's, who called him
"Mikey."
After the revolution Mike followed his father and settled in the
valley on what is now known as the Lilburn Widener farm. Mike
died at the age of eighty-four. Joel Widener, now living, is a
grandson. The present generation are all descendants of John
and Mike. Several families of Eouses, descendants of Paulser, still
live in the valley.
At the time of these early settlements there were a good many
Indians hunting and fishing in and near the valley. They were
very peaceable, however. Two large Indian camps were established
— one on the Middle Fork at a point east of the New Bridge; the
other in the lower end of the valley. Of the latter many evidences
still remain.
John and Michael Fleenor settled in Poor Valley; Casper Flee-
nor in Eich Valley, on the head waters of what is now called Gas-
per's creek, and Nicholas Fleenor settled at the Lilburn Fleenor
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 105
place in Eich Valley, below Benhams. The four persons named
were of German descent and brothers, and are the ancestors of
many of our best citizens.
At this point it may be appropriate to give a description of the
early forts erected by the settlers in the West.
My readers will understand by this term, not only a place of de-
fence, but the residence of a small number of families belonging
to the neighborhood.
As the Indian's mode of warfare was an indiscriminate slaugh-
ter of all ages and both sexes, it was as requisite to provide for the
safety of the women and children as for that of the men. The fort
consisted of cabins, block-houses and stockades. A range of cabins
commonly formed one side, at least, of the fort. Divisions or par-
titions of logs separated the cabins one from another. The walls
on the outside were ten or twelve feet high, the slope of the roof
being turned wholly inward. Very few of these cabins had plank
floors ; the greater part were earthen.
The block-houses were built at the angles of the fort. They pro-
jected about two feet beyond the outer walls of the cabins and
stockades. Their upper stories were about eighteen inches, every
way, larger in dimension than the under one, leaving an opening
at the commencement of the second story to prevent the enemy
from making a lodgement under their walls.
In some forts, instead of block-houses, the angles of the fort
were finished with bastions. A large folding gate, made of thick
slabs nearest the spring, closed the fort.
The stockades, bastions, cabins and block-house walls were fur-
nished with port-holes at proper heights and distances. The whole
of the outside was made bullet-proof. It may be truly said that
"necessity is the mother of invention," for the whole of this
work was made without the aid of a shingle, nail, or spike of iron,
because such things were not to be had. In some places less exposed
a single block-house, with a cabin or two, constituted the whole
fort.*
In this same year Daniel Boone, John Finley, John Stuart and
a few others, as well as numerous other companies of hunters who
are of no importance in the history of this country, explored Ken-
*Dodridge.
106 Southwest Virginia, 17Jk6-n86.
tucky and hunted throughout Southwest Virginia, East Tennes-
see and Eastern Kentucky.
In the year 1769 there occurred a circumstance that greatly aided
the early settlers of Southwest Virginia and Eastern Tennessee in
settling this country and in conquering their Indian neighbors, the
Cherokees.
The Cherokee Indians were exceedingly overbearing in their dis-
position and they sought a quarrel with the Chickasaw Indians and
invaded their country.
When they had reached the Chickasaw Old Fields, they were met
by the Chickasaw warriors. After a terrible battle the Cherokees
were defeated with great loss and retreated to their own villages.
The very flower of the Cherokee Nation were destroyed in this bat-
tle, and, the number of their warriors being greatly reduced, for
seven years the early settlers were permitted to pursue their course
in peace.
All of the incidents above related occurred while the lands, now
included in Washington county, were a part of Augusta county, but
in the year 1769, the House of Burgesses of Virginia passed an act
for the division of Augusta county, and all that part of Augusta
county lying south and west of the North river, near Lexington,
Va., was given the name of Botetourt county, and thus a new county
was formed, which included all that part of Virginia in which we
live and about which I write.
The act establishing Botetourt county provided that from and
after the 31st day of January next ensuing, 1770, the said county
and parish of Augusta be divided into two counties and parishes by
a line beginning at the Blue Eidge, running north 55 degrees west
to the confluence of Mary's creek, or the South river, with the north
branch of James river, thence up the same to the mouth of Carr's
creek, thence up said creek to the mountain, thence north 55 degrees
west as far as the courts of the two counties had it extended, and
further. Whereas the people situated on the waters of the Mis-
sisippi in the said county of Botetourt will be very remote from
their courthouse and must necessarily become a separate county as
soon as their numbers are sufficient, which probably will happen in
a short time, be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid that
the inhabitants of that part of said county of Botetourt which lies
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 107
on the said waters shall be exempted from the payment of any
levies to be laid by the said county court for the purpose of building
a courthouse and prison for said county.
It will thus be seen that the organization of the county of Bote-
tourt was intended to be temporary only.
108 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
CHAPTEE V.
SOUTHWEST VIEGINIA— BOTETOUET COUNTY.
1770-1773.
The first Coimty Court of Botetourt county met at the house of
Eobert Breckenridge^ near the location of Fincastle, Va., on Tues-
day, the 13th of February, 1770. The justices composing the court
were :
^William Preston, David Eobinson,
George Skillem, James Trimble
Eichard Woods, John Maxwell
Benjamin Hawkins, William Fleming,
Benjamin Estill, Israel Christian,
John Bowyer, Jlobert Breckenridge.
A number of the members of this court were not present on the
first day of the court, but were subsequently qualified. The follow-
ing officers qualified on that day:
County Court Clerk, John May.
Sheriff Botetourt county, Eichard Woods.
Deputy Sheriffs Botetourt county, Jas. McDowell and Jas. Mc-
Gavock.
County Surveyor, William Preston.
Escheator, William Preston.
Coroner, Andrew Lewis.
Colonel of Militia, William Preston.
The attorneys qualifying to practice in the court were:
Edmund Winston, John Aylett,
Luke Bowyer, Thomas Madison.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 109
On the 14tli day of February, 1770, the following magistrates
qualified and took their seats :
John Bowman, Anthony Bledsoe,
AVilliam Christian, Walter Crockett,
Robert Doach, John Howard,
William Herbert, William Inglis,
Phili]) Love, Andrew Lewis,
John Montgomery, James McGavock,
William Matthews, William McKee,
James Eobertson, Francis Smith,
Stephen Trigg, Andrew Woods.
And on the 11th day of June, 1771, the following members of the
court qualified:
John Van Bebber, James Thompson, of Holstou,
John Stewart, Matthew Arbuckle.
Botetourt county was named for Lord Botetourt, Governor of
Virginia, in 1768, and the county seat was fixed at the present loca-
tion of Finscastle, Va., upon forty acres of land presented to the
county for a town seat by Israel Christian. Fincastle was named
for the county seat of Lord Botetourt in England, and was estab-
lished as a town by law in 1772.
Of the members of the County Court of Botetourt county, James
Eobertson, Anthony Bledsoe and James Thompson had their resi-
dence upon the waters of the Holston and the Watauga. On the
second day of the court, being February 14, 1770, Frederick Stern
and Eobert Davis were appointed constables upon the Holston river ;
on the 12th of June, 1770, William Pruitt was appointed a con-
stable upon the waters of the Clinch, and Arthur Campbell was
appointed surveyor of the roads from the State line to the Eoyal
Oak, and James Davis from the Eoyal Oak to his house.
On the 13th of March, 1770, Arthur Campbell obtained permis-
sion from the County Court of Botetourt county to erect a mill at
Eoyal Oak, on the Holston, and there can be no question that this
was the first mill erected upon any of the waters of the Holston or
Clinch river.
On the same day Francis Kincannon was appointed surveyor of
the roads from Stalnaker's to Eighteen Mile creek; Thomas Eam-
110 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
say from said creek to Beaver, or Shallow, creek, and David Looney
from said creek to Fall creek.
On the 10th of May, 1770, xVnthony Bledsoe was appointed to
take the tithables from Stalnaker's to the lowest inhabitants.
The next order of the County Court of Botetourt county, of any
importance in the history of this county, was made on the 14th of
August, 1771, when the County Court ordered that Andrew Colvill,
George Adams, George Tiller, George Baker, David Ward and
Alexander Wilie, or any three of them, being first sworn to view
the way from the head of Holston river to the Wolf Hill creek, both
the old and the new way, make report to the next court of the con-
veniences and inconveniences thereof. The records of Botetourt
county fail to show that this report was ever made or that the road
was established, but there can be but little doubt that the road was
established and used, and, if so, this was the first public road estab-
lished upon the waters of the Holston or Clinch river. The fore-
going is all the information that the records of Botetourt county
give of any of the people living upon the waters of the Holston and
Clinch rivers.
The one matter of supreme importance to the inhabitants of this
section of Virginia at that time was the extinguishment of the
claims of the Cherokee Indians to the lands which they were set-
tling and occupying, and, pursuant to instructions, John Stuart,
Superintendent of Indian Affairs, assembled the Indian chiefs at
Lochaber, S. C, October 18, 1770, and on Monday, October 22,
1770, he succeeded in concluding a treaty with the chiefs and war-
riors of the Cherokee Nation, by which George III, King of Eng-
land, became the owner of all the lands lying east of a line
beginning at a point where the North Carolina (now Tennessee)
line terminates at a run, thence in a west course to Holston river,
where it is intersected by a continuation of the line dividing the
Province of North Carolina (now Tennessee) and Virginia, and
thence in a straight course to the confluence of the Great Canaway
river, the treaty being here given in full :
TREATY.
At a meeting of the principal Chiefs and Warriors of the Cherokee
Nation with John Stuart, Esq., Superintendent of Indian Affairs,
etc., Lochaber, South Carolina, Oct. 18th, 1770.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. Ill
Present Colo. Donelson by appointment of his Excellency, the
Eight Honorable Lord Botetourt, in behalf of the Province of Vir-
ginia.
Alex'r Cameron, Deputy Superintendent ; James Simpson, Clk of
his Majesty's Council of South Carolina; Major Lacy, from Vir-
ginia ; Major Williamson, Capt. Cohoon, John Caldwell, Esq., Cap-
tain Winter, Christopher Peters, Esq., besides a great number of the
back inhabitants of the province of South Carolina, and the fol-
lowing chiefs of the Cherokee Nation: Oconistoto, Killagusta, At-
tacallaculla, Keyatory, Tiftoy, Terreaino, Encyod Tugalo, Scali-
loskie Chinista, Chinista of Watangali, Octaciti of Hey Wassie, and
about a thousand other Indians of the same Nation.
John Watts, 'j '
David McDonald, I Interpreters.
John Vans, j
Treaty, Monday, 22nd Oct.
At a Congress of the principal chiefs of the Cherokee Nation, held
at Lochaber, in the province of South Carolina^ on the 18th day
of October in the year of our Lord 1770, by John Stuart, Esq., his
Majesty's agent for and Superintendent of the Affairs of the In-
dian Nation in the Southern district of North America.
A Treaty for a cession ! His most sacred Majesty, George the
Third, by the grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland,
King, Defender of the Faith, etc., by the said Nation of Cherokee
Indians, of certain lands lying within the limits of the Dominion of
Virginia.
Whereas by a Treaty entered into and concluded at Hard Labor,
the 14th day of Oct. in the year 1768, by John Stuart, Esq. his
Majesty's Agent for and Superintendent of the affairs of the In-
dian Nations, inhabiting the southern district of North America,
with the principal and ruling Chiefs of the Cherokee Nation, all of
the lands formerly claimed by, and belonging to the said Nation of
Indians, lying within the province of North Carolina and Virginia,
running in a N. B. E. course, to Colo. Chiswell's mine on the East-
ern bank of the Great Canaway, and from thence in a straight line
to the mouth of the said Great Canaway river, where it discharges
itself into the Ohio river, were ceded to his most sacred Majesty, his
113 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
heirs and sucessors. And whereas by the above recited Treaty, all
the lands lying between Holston's Eiver, and the line above specified
were determined to belong to the Cherokee Nation to the great loss
and inconvenience of many of his Majesty's subjects inhabiting the
said lands; and representation of the same having been made to
his Majesty by his Excellency, the Et Hon'ble ISTorborne, Baron de
Botetourt, his Majesty's Lieutenant and Governor General of the
dominion of Virginia. In Consequence whereof, his Majesty has
been generously pleased to signify his Eoyal pleasure to John Stu-
art, Esq., his Agent for and Superintendent of Indian Affairs in the
Southern District of North America, by an instruction contained
in a letter from the Et. Hon'ble the Earl of Hillsborough, one of
his Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, dated the 13th of May,
1769, to enter into a negotiation with the Cherokees for establishing
a new boundary line beg'g at the point where the No. Carolina line
terminates, and to run thence in a west course to Holston's Eiver,
where it is intersected by a continuance of the line dividing the
province of North Carolina & Virginia, and thence a straight course
to the confluence of the Great Canaway and Ohio Elvers.
Dec. 12, 1770.
Article 1st.
Pursuant therefore to his Majesty's orders to & power and autho-
rity vested in John Stuart, Esqr. Agent for and Superintendent of
the Affairs of the Indian Tribes in the Southern District: It is
agreed upon by the said John Stuart, Esqr. on behalf of his most
sacred Majesty, George Third, by the grace of God, of Great
Britain, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, etc., and
by the subscribing Cherokee Chiefs and Warriors on behalf of their
said Nation in consideration of his Majesty's paternal goodness, so
often demonstrated to them, the said Cherokee Indians, and from
their affection and friendship for their Brethren, the Inhabi-
tants of Virginia as well as their earnest desire of removing as far
as possible all cause of dispute between them and the said inhabi-
tants on account of encroachments on lands reserved by the said In-
dians for themselves, and also for a valuable consideration in
various sorts of goods paid to them by the said John Stuart, on
behalf of the Dominion of Virginia that the hereafter recited line be
ratified and confirmed, and it is hereby ratified and confirmed ac-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 113
cordingly : and it is by these presents firmly stipulated and agreed
iipon by the parties aforesaid that a line beginning where the boun-
dary line between the province of No. Carolina and the Cherokee
hunting grounds terminates and running thence in a west course
to a point six miles east of Long Island in Holston's river and thence
to said river six miles above the said Long Island, thence in a
course to the confluence of the Great Canaway and Ohio rivers,
shall remain and be deemed by all his Majesty's white subjects
as well as all the Indians of the Cherokee Nation, the true and
just boundaries of the lands reserved by the said Nation of Indians
for their own proper use, and dividing the same from the lands
ceded by them to his Majesty's within the limits of the province of
Virginia, and that his Majesty's white subjects, inhabiting the pro-
vince of Virginia, shall not, upon any pretense whatsoever, settle
beyond the said line, nor shall the said Indians make any settlements
or encroachments on the lands which by this treaty they cede and
confirm to his Majesty; and it is further agreed that as soon as his
Majesty's royal approbation of this treaty shall have been signified
to the Governor of Virginia or Superintendent, this treaty shall be
carried into execution.
Article 2nd.
And it is further agreed upon and stipulated by the contracting
parties, that no alteration whatsoever shall henceforward be made in
the boundary line above recited, and now solemnly agreed upon, ex-
cept such as may hereafter be found expedient and necessary for
the mutual interest of both parties, and which alteration shall be
made with the consent of the Superintendent or such other person
or persons as shall be authorized by his Majesty, as well as with the
consent and approbation of the Cherokee Nation of Indians, at a
Congress or general meeting of said Indians, to be held for said
purpose, and not in any other manner.
In testimony whereof, the said Superintendent, on behalf of his
Majesty, and the underwritten Cherokee Chiefs on behalf of their
Nation have signed and sealed this present treaty at the time and
place aforesaid.
John Stuart, (L. S.)
Oconistoto, YC, (L. C.)
Kittagusta, 0., (L. C.)
114 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Attacallaculla, X., (L. C.)
Keyatoy's mark ISTG., (L. C.)
Unkayonla, C, (L. C.)
Chuckamuntas, C, (L. C)
Kinalilaps, NG., (L. C.)
Skyagusta Tucelicis, S., (L. C.)
Wolf of Keewees, G., (L. C.)
Skyagusta Tiftoy, (L. C.)
Terrapino, (L. C.)
Ency of Tugalo, (L. C.)
Scalil^^skey of Sugar Town, (L. C.)
Thus all claim asserted by both the northern and southern In-
dians to any of the lands located within the present bounds of
Washington county was extinguished, and the settlement of these
lands was greatly expedited thereby. This portion of Virginia now
opened to settlement was one vast forest overspreading a limestone
soil of great fertility and excellently watered, and this, accompa-
nied by the comparative security and quiet succeeding the French-
Indian war of 1763, contributed greatly to the rapid settlement of
Southwestern Virginia.
In the year 1770, Col. James Knox,* accompanied by about
forty hunters from the settlements on New river, Holston and
Clinch, passed oved the Cumberland mountains for the purpose of
hunting and trapping, and penetrated to the lower Cumberland.
They were equipped with their rifles, traps and dogs, and the
usual outfit of backwoods hunters, and thus originated the name
Long Hunters. The usual mode of hunting followed by what were
known as the Long Hunters, in those days, was for not more than
two or three men to go in one company, each man having two
horses, traps, a large surplus of powder and lead, a small hand vise
and bellows and files and screw plates for the purpose of fixing
guns, if any should get out of fix. They usually set out from their
homes about the first of October and returned the latter part of
March or first of April. The most noted Long Hunters were
Elisha Walden, William Carr, William Crabtree, James Aldridge,
William Pitman and Henry Scaggs.
During the season above mentioned, large numbers of hunters
*Afterwards Gen. Knox. The last named erected a fort near the present
site of Kiioxville, Tenn., to which was given the name of Fort Knox.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 115
visited the valleys of the Holston, Clinch and Powell's rivers, and
oftentimes penetrated into the very heart of Kentucky.
In the year 1771, Absalom Looney settled in Abb's Valley, Taze-
well county, Virginia, and from him the valley received its name.
Thomas Witten and John Greenup settled at Crab Orchard, a few
miles west of Tazewell C. H. ; Mathias, Jacob and Henry Harmon
settled a few miles east of Tazewell C. H., and John Craven,
Joseph Martin, John Henry, James King and John Bradshaw set-
tled in Tazewell county, on the headwaters of the Clinch.
In the year 1771, a company of about twenty men from near
the Natural Bridge in Virginia and from the New river settle-
ments met about eight miles below Fort Chiswell on New river,
whence they traveled to the head of the Holston, and thence down
the Holston Valley, and on into Kentucky, where they continued
to hunt for about nine months.
The Holston settlements received during this year a large num-
ber of emigrants from North Carolina. The government of North
Carolina was in the hands of a class of people who were very
haughty and oppressive in their manner towards the poorer classes
of citizens, which caused great numbers of the people of North
Carolina to organize themselves into bands called Regulators.
They petitioned Governor Tryon for relief, which was denied; tu-
mult and violence succeeded, the courts were prevented from sit-
ting and the laws were disobeyed. The principal ground of com-
plaint was that the people were taxed without the right to vote and
send representatives to the House of Commons of North Carolina.
About three thousand Eegulators banded themselves together, and
on the 16th of May, 1771, a battle was fought at the Alamance,
between the Regulators and the forces commanded by Governor
Tryon. The Regulators, being undisciplined and poorly armed,
were defeated with the loss of nine killed and many wounded, the
Governor's forces having lost twenty-seven killed and many
wounded. And thus it is said was fought the first battle of the
Revolution, and thus was shed the first blood for the enjoyment
of liberty. The Eegulators being thus defeated and dispersed,
many of their number found homes on the waters of the Holston
and Clinch rivers. At this time the settlements extended down the
north side of the Holston river as far as Carter's Valley, about
fourteen or fifteen miles above Rogersville, Tenn., and that por-
116 Southivest Virginia, 17J,6-17S6.
tion of the country being supposed to be a part of Virginia, it was
soon settled by people from the Wolf Hills in Virginia.
A settlement was made on the Watauga as early as the year 1770,
upon the idea that the lands were in Virginia, and that the set-
tlers would be entitled to take up the lands given to settlers under
the laws of Virginia, to-wit: To each actual settler who should
erect a log cabin and cultivate one acre in corn, four hundred acres,
located so as to include all improvements, with the right to buy
a thousand acres adjoining at a nominal price. Most of the early
settlers on the Watauga came from near the Wolf Hills and, being
loyal Virginians, they did not contemplate establishing a residence
in the State of North Carolina, but thought they were near the
boundary between the two States.
In the fall of the year 1771, Anthony Bledsoe ran the boundary
line between the Colonies of Virginia and North Carolina, far
enough west to ascertain that the Watauga settlement was in North
Carolina, and Alexander Cameron, the British agent, immediately
ordered the settlers on the Watauga to move off of the Indian lands.
James Eobertson and John Sevier, two of the leading members
of the Watauga settlement, immediately set about to devise ways
and means by which they could avoid the order of the British
agent. They could not buy the lands from the Indians, because
the purchase was prohibited, but there was no law prohibiting a
lease of the land, and in the year 1774, the Indians leased to the
settlers on the Watauga the lands in the Watauga Valley and all
was peace once again.
The stream of emigration that poured over the mountains ex-
tended along the Holston as far as Carter's Valley and on the lands
belonging to the Indians. They were all from Virginia and of
Scotch-Irish descent, their wealth consisting of strong arms and
stout hearts.
In the year 1772, James Moore and James Poage settled in
Abb's Valley, William Wynn at Locust Hill, John Taylor and
Jesse Evans on the north fork of Clinch ; Thomas Maxwell, Benja-
min Joslin, James Ogleton, Peter and Jacob Harmon, Samuel
Ferguson and William Webb, near Tazewell C. H.; Eees Bowen,
at Maiden Spring, David Ward in the Cove, and William Garri-
son at the foot of Morris' Knob. William Wynn erected a fort on
Soufhwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 117
Wynn's Branch, Thomas Witten at Crab Orchard, and Bees
Bowen at Maiden Spring.
The earlj/Settlers of Southwest Virginia came principally from
the Valley^of Virginia, western Pennsylvania and Maryland, some
of them coming directly from Ireland. They were of a mixed
race, and a large majority were Scotch-Irish. In studying the
nationality of the early settlers of Southwest Virginia, it must
be kept in mind that there was a great difference between the
people inhabiting the eastern shores of Virginia and the early set-
tlers in the mountains of western Virginia. They differed both in
their ancestry and in their religion.
The early settlers of Eastern Virginia were English by birth and /
Episcopalians in religion; while the early settlers of Southwest
Virginia were Scotch-Irish by birth and Presbyterians in religious j
belief. '
The government of the Colony of Virginia, early in the eigh-
teenth century, adopted the policy of offering inducements to the
dissenters from the established church to settle and make their
homes in the Valley of Virginia and in the Southwest, and thereby
sought to establish a barrier between the Indian tribes and the set-
tlers east of the mountains.
In the adoption of this policy the government of the Colony of
Virginia was actuated by selfish motives; they little dreamed that
they were thus giving a foothold to a vigorous people, who were
destined tp play a strong part in the future history of their
country.
The people thus invited to settle the garden spot of Virginia
were the sons of the men who followed Cromwell. They were men
who regarded themselves, according to Macaulay, as "kings by the
right of an earlier creation and priests by the interposition of an
Almighty hand." King James I, when speaking of a Scotch Pres-
bytery, said, "Presbytery agreeth as well with monarchy as God and
the devil." They were Protestants and detested the Catholics, the
enemies of their forefathers, and they despised the Episcopalians,
their oppressors. They constituted the outposts of our earlier civiliza-
tion, their homes being in the moimtains. A distinguished writer,
in speaking of these people, says : "That these Irish Presbyte-
rians M^ere a bold and hardy race is proved by their at once pushing
past tlic settled regions and plunging into the wilderness as the
118 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
leaders of the white advance. They were the first and last set of
emigrants to do this; all others have merely followed in the wake
of their predecessors. But indeed they were fitted to be Americans
from the very start; they were the kinsfolk of the Covenanters:
they deemed it a religious duty to interpret their own Bible, and
held for a divine right the election of their own clergy. The creed
of the backwoodsmen who had a creed at all was Presbyterianism,
for the Episcopacy of the tidewater lands obtained no foothold in
the mountains, and the Methodists and Baptists had but just be-
gun to appear in the west,* before the Revolution broke out."
Governor David Campbell, who lived and died at Abingdon, in
speaking of these people, says : "The first settlers on Holston river
were a remarkable race of people, for their intelligence, enterprise
and hardy adventure." The greater portion of them had emi-
grated from the counties of Botetourt, Augusta and Frederick, and
others from along the same valley and from the upper counties
of Maryland and Pennsylvania, and generally, where they had any
religious opinions, were Presbyterians.
A very large proportion were religious, and many were mem-
bers of' the church. It is generally supposed that the motive
actuating the early explorers and settlers of this country was the
acquisition of wealth, and while • such motive may have had its
influence on some, we cannot believe that such was the real motive
of the great body of our early settlers. The early settlers and
forefathers had been persecuted in their homes across the Atlantic
because of their independent . spirit and their undying fealty to
the doctrines taught by Calvin and Knox ; and when they crossed
the waters they were driven, by the intolerant spirit of the estab-
lished church, beyond the lowlands to the very mountains, where
they sought a place and opportunity to exercise their religion ac-
cording to the dictates of their consciences. The important part
played by this people in the early history of our country cannot be
overestimated.
Our forefathers were inspired and governed by the same senti-
ments that actuated the founders of our nation. The theology of
Calvin, the founder of the republic of Geneva, combined with the
sturdy independence of the Scotch-Irish settlers of the American
colonies, gave birth to our republic. "The first voice raised in
*The Winning of the West, Vol. I., page 138.
Soutliwest Virginia, 171^6-1786. 119
America to destroy all connection with Great Britain came from
the Scotch-Irish Presbyterians.*"
The Hon. Wm. C. Preston, of South Carolina, a native of Wash-
ington county, in speaking of the resemblance between the consti-
tution of the Presbyterian Church and the constitution of our
country, said : "Certainly it was the most remarkable and singular
coincidence that the constitution of the Presbyteilian Chuj-ch
should bear such a close and striking resemblance to the political con-
stitution of our country." f
Not only were they the first to demand the separation of the
colonies from the mother country, but they were the first to de-
mand religious liberty and the separation of Church and State.
Hanover Presbytery, of which the Eev. Chas. Cummings was an
honored member, prepared a petition with this object in view and
presented it to the General Assembly of Virginia on the 24th of
October, 1776, the petition being as follows:
"A memorial of the Presbytery of Hanover was presented to the
House, and read : setting forth that they are governed by the same
sentiments which have inspired the United States of America,
and are determined that nothing in their power and influence shall
be wanting to give success to the common cause : that Dissenters
from the Church of England in this country have ever been desir-
ous to conduct themselves as peaceable members of the civil gov-
ernment, for which reason they have hitherto submitted to several
ecclesiastick burthens and restrictions, that are inconsistent with
equal liberty, but that now when the many and grievous oppres-
sions of our mother country have laid this continent under the
necessity of casting off the yoke of tyranny, and of forming inde-
pendent governments, upon equitable and liberal foundations, they
flatter themselves they shall be freed from all the encumbrances
which a spirit of domination, prejudice or bigotry hath interwoven
with most other political systems : that they are more strongly en-
couraged to expect this, by the declaration of rights, so universally
applauded for the dignity, firmness and precision with which it
delineates and asserts the privileges of society and the prerogatives
of human nature, and which they embrace as the Magna Charta of
the Commonwealth, which can never be violated without endanger-
*Bancroft's His. U. S., Vol. X., page 77.
t Scotch-Irish Seeds, page 346.
120 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1780.
ing the grand superstructure it was destined to support: There-
fore they rely upon this declaration, as well as the justice of the
Legislature, to secure to them the free exercise of their religion,
according to the dictates of their consciences : and that they should
fall short in their duty to themselves and to the many and nu-
merous congregations under their care, were they upon this occasion
to neglect laying before the House a statement of the religious griev-
ances under which they have hitherto labored, that they may no
longer be continued in the present form of government: that it
is well known that in the frontier counties which are justly sup-
posed to contain a fifth part of the inliabitants of Virginia, the
dissenters have borne the heavy burthens of purchasing glebes and
supporting the established clergy, where there are very few Episco-
palians either to assist in bearing the expense or to reap the ad-
vantage: and that throughout the other parts of the country there
are also many thousands of zealous friends and defenders of the
State who, besides the invidious disadvantageous restrictions to
which they have been subjected annually, pay large taxes to sup-
port an establishment from which their consciences and principles
oblige them to dissent, all which are so many violations of their
natural rights, and in their consequences a restraint upon freedom
of inquiry and private judgment. In this enlightened age, and in
a land where all are united in the most strenuous efforts to be free,
they hope and expect that their representatives will cheerfully
concur in removing every species of religious as well as civil bond-
age. That every argument for civil liberty gains additional
strength when applied to liberty in the concerns of religion, and
that there is no argument in favor of establishing the Christian
religion but what may be pleaded for establishing the tenets of Ma-
homet by those who believe in the Alcoran : or, if this be not true,
it is at least impossible for the magistrate to adjudge the right
of preference among the various sects which profess the Christian
faith, without erecting a chair of infallibility which would lead us
back to the Church of Eome. That they beg leave farther to repre-
sent that religious establishments are highly injurious to the tem-
poral interests of any community, without insisting upon the ambi-
tion and the arbitrary practices of those who aro favored by govern-
ment, or the intriguing seditious spirit which is commonly excited
by this, as well as every other kind of oppression. Such establish-
Southwest Virginia, nJf6-1786. 131
ments greatly retard population and consequently the progress of
arts, sciences and manufactures: witness the rapid growth and
improvement of the northern provinces compared with this. That
no one can deny the more early settlement, and the many supe-
rior advantages of our country, would have invited multitudes
of artificers, mechanics and other useful members of society, to fix
their habitation among us, who have either remained in the place
ef their nativity, or preferred worse civil government, and a more
barren soil, where they might enjoy the rights of conscience more
fully than they had a prospect of doing in this : from which they
infer that Virginia might now have been the capital of America,
and a match for the British arms, without depending upon others
for the necessaries of war, had it not been prevented by her reli-
gious establishment. jSTeither can it be made appear that the gos-
pel needs any such civil aid : they rather conceive that when our
Blessed Savior declares his kingdom is not of this world, he
renounces dependence upon State power, and as his weapons are
spiritual and were only designed to have influence upon the judg-
ment and heart of man, they are persuaded that if mankind were
left in the quiet possession of their unalienable privileges, Chris-
tianity, as in the days of the Apostles, would continue to prevail
and flourish in the greatest purity by its own native excellence,
and under the all-disposing providence of God. That they would
also humbly represent, that the only proper objects of civil gov-
ernment are the happiness and protection of men in the present
state of existence, the security of the life, liberty and property of
the citizens, and to restrain the vicious and encourage the virtuous
by wholesome laws, equally extending to every individual : but that
the duty they owe their Creator, and the manner of discharging it,
can only be directed by reason and conviction, and is nowhere
cognizable but at the tribunal of the universal judge, and that
therefore they ask no ecclesiastical establishments for themselves,
neither can they approve of them when granted to others, and earn-
estly entreating that all laws now in force in this Commonwealth
which countenance religious denominations may be speedily re-
pealed, that all and every religious sect may be protected in the
full exercise of their several modes of worship, and exempted from
the payment of all taxes for the support of any church whatever.
122
Southivest Virginia, 171,6-1786.
farther than wliat may be agreeable to their own private choice, or
voluntary obligations."*
But few of the inhabitants of this beautiful country at the
present time have even a slight idea of the dangers and priva-
tions endured by the early settlers, the dim shadows of which are
vanishing like the tints in a dissolving scene. The men who
worked their way from tlie settlements in the valley to their future
The First Temjiles.
home, groping through the forest without a road and with nothing
to guide them in their course, except the trail of the Indian and
the buffalo ; at night resting on the ground with no roof over them
save the branches of the mighty oak or the broad expanse of
heaven; exploring an unknown wilderness, surrounded by insur-
mountable obstacles and momentarily threatened with assault from
their deadly enemies, the rattlesnake, the Indian and the wild beast
of the forest, but always accompanied by a trust in their God,
came, "with the Bible in one hand and a cross in the other, tread-
ing the sombre shades of these dark old woods and often with a
boulder of granite for a footstool, and the eternal cataracts thundcr-
*Journal Va. House of Delegates, 1776.
resolution by many years.
This petition preceded Jefferson
Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786. 123
ing amid the everlasting solitudes for an organ, these devout men
Avorshipped their God according to the dictates of their consciences."
Each emigrant brought with him some clothes, a little bedding,
guns and ammunition, cooking utensils, seed corn, an axe, a saw
and the Bible. Such were the men and the manner of their com-
ing, who cleared the forests and opened the beautiful and rich
farms that are now spread out upon our. hills and mountain sides
and grassy plains.
The early settlers in their intercourse with others were kind,
beneficent and disinterested: extending to all the most generous
hospitality that their circumstances could afford. That selfish-
ness which prompts to liberality for the sake of remuneration and
professes the civilities of life with an eye to individual interest
was unknown to them. They were kind for kindness' sake and
sought no other recompense than the never failing concomitant
of good deeds, the reward of an approving conscience.
There existed in each settlement a -perfect unison of feeling.
Similitude of situation and community of danger operated as a
magic charm and stifled in their birth those little bickerings which
are so apt to disturb the quiet of society.*
Ambition of preferment, the pride of place, too often hin-
drances to social intercourse, were unknown among them. Equal-
ity of condition rendered them strangers alike to the baneful dis-
tinctions of wealth and other adventitious circumstances, a sense
of mutual dependence for their common security, linked them in
amity and they conducted their several purposes in harmonious con-
cert; together they toiled and together they suffered. Such were
the pioneers of the Southwest; and the greater part of mankind
might now derive advantage from the contemplation of their "hum-
ble virtues, their hospitable homes, their spirits potential, noble,
proud and free, their self-respect grafted on innocent thoughts,
their days of health and nights of sleep, their toils, by dangers
dignified, yet guiltless, their hopes of cheerful old age and a quiet
grave with cross and garland over its green turf and their grand-
children's love for an epitaph."*
The early settlers of this section of Virginia were a strong,
stern people, simple in their habits, God-fearing in their practices,
imbibing the spirit of freedom, such as is usually found among the
*Dodridge.
124 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
inhabitants of a mountainous country, kind in their disposition
towards the well-disposed and unmerciful in their dealings with
their enemies. They were upright in all their dealings, fearless
advocates of the right and undying lovers of their country.
Dr. Dodridge, an author who wrote from his personal knowl-
edge, says that "linsey coats and bed-gowns, were the universal dress
of the women in the early times." The weed, now known among
us as the "wild nettle," then furnished the material which served
to clothe the persons of our sires and dames." It was cut down
while yet green and treated much in the same manner in which
flax is now treated.
The fibrous bark, with the exception of the shortness of the
fibres, seemed to be adapted to the same uses. When this "flax,"
if I may so term it, was prepared, it was mixed with buffalo hair,
and woven into a substantial cloth in which the men and women
were clothed. It is a true maxim, "Necessity is the mother of
invention."
"The furniture of the table, for several years after the settle-
ment of this country, consisted of a few pewter dishes, plates and
spoons; but mostly of wooden bowls, trenchers and noggins. If
these last were scarce, gourds and hard-shelled squashes made up
the deficiency. Iron pots, knives and forks were brought from the
East, with the salt and iron on horseback."
"In our whole display of furniture, the delft, china and silver
were unknown. It did not then, as now, require contributions
from the four quarters of the globe to furnish the breakfast table,
viz., the silver from Mexico, the coffee from the West Indies, the
tea from China and the delft or porcelain from Europe or Asia.
Yet, a homely fare, unsightly cabins and furniture produced a
hardy race, who planted the first footsteps of civilization in the
immense regions of the West. Inured to hardship, bravery and
labor from their early youth, they sustained with manly fortitude
the fatigue of the chase, the campaign and scout, and with 'strong
arms turned the wilderness into fruitful fields,' and have left to
their descendants the rich inheritance of an immense empire
blessed with peace, wealth and prosperity."*
"For a long time after the settlement of this country, the in-
*Bickley.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 125
habitants in general married young. There was no distinction of
rank and very little of fortune. On these accounts the first impres-
sion of love resulted in marriage, and a family establishment cost
but little labor and nothing else.
"A description of a wedding from beginning to end will serve
to show the manners of our forefathers and mark the grade of civi-
lization which has succeeded to their rude state of society, in the
course of a few years.
"In the first years of the settlement of a country, a wedding en-
gaged the attention of the whole neighborhood, and the frolic was
anticipated by young and old with eager expectation. This is not
to be wondered at when it is told that a wedding was almost the
only gathering which was not accompanied with the labor of reap-
ing, log-rolling, building a cabin, or planning some scout or cam-
paign. On the morning of the wedding day the groom and his at-
tendants assembled at the house of his father for the purpose of
reaching the home of his bride by noon, which was the usual time
for celebrating the nuptials and which, for certain reasons, must
take place before dinner.
"Let the reader imagine an assemblage of people without a
store, tailor or mantua-maker within a hundred miles, and an as-
semblage of horses without a blacksmith or saddle within an equal
distance. The gentlemen dressed in shoepacks, moccasins, leather
breeches, leggings, linsey hunting shirts, and all home-made. The
ladies dressed in linsey petticoats and linsey or linen bed-gowns,
coarse shoes, stockings and handkerchiefs and buckskin gloves, if
any. If there were any rings, buckles, buttons or ruffles, they were
the relics of olden times; family pieces from parents or grand-
parents. The horses were caparisoned with old saddles, old bridles
or halters, and pack-saddles with a bag or blanket thrown over
them; a rope or string as often constituted the girth as a piece of
leather.
"The march, in double file, was often interrupted by the narrow-
ness of our mountain paths, as they were called, for we had no
roads, and these difficulties were often increased by the good and
sometimes the ill-will of neighbors by felling trees and tying grape-
vines across the way. Sometimes an ambuscade was formed by
the wayside, and an unexpected discharge of several guns took
126 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
place, so as to cover the wedding party with smoke. Let the reader
imagine the scene which followed this discharge ; the sudden spring
of the horses, the shrieks of the girls and the chivalrous bustle of
their partners to save them from falling. Sometimes, in spite of
all that could be done to prevent it, some were thrown to the
ground. If a wrist, elbow or ankle happened to be sprained, it was
tied up with a handkerchief, and little more said or thought
about it.
"The ceremony of the marriage preceded the dinner, which was
a substantial backwoods feast of beef, pork, fowls, and sometimes
venison and bear meat roasted and boiled with plenty of potatoes,
cabbage and other vegetables. During the dinner the greatest
hilarity prevailed. The table might be a large slab of timber,
hewed out with a broad-axe, supported by four sticks, set in auger
holes; and the furniture, some old pewter dishes and plates; the
rest, wooden bowls and trenchers: a few pewter spoons much bat-
tered about the edges were to be seen at some tables. The rest were
made of horn. If knives were scarce the deficiency was made up
with scalping knives which were carried in sheaths suspended to
the belt of the hunting shirt. Every man carried one.
"After dinner the dancing commenced and generally lasted until
the next morning. The figures of the dancers were three and four
handed reels, or square sets and jigs. The commencement was
always a square form, which was followed by what was called jig-
ging it off; that is, two of the four would single out for a jig, and
were followed by the remaining couple. The jigs were often ac-
companied with what was called cutting out, that is, when either
of the parties became tired of the dance, on intimation, the place
was 'supplied by some one of the company, without any interrup-
tion to the dance. In this way the dance was often continued till
the musician was heartily tired of his situation. Toward the lat-
ter part of the night, if any of the company through weariness at-
tempted to conceal themselves for the purpose of sleeping, they
were hunted up, paraded on the floor, and the fiddler ordered to
play, 'Hang out till to-morrow morning.'
"About nine or ten o'clock a deputation of young ladies stole
off the bride and put her to bed. In doing this it frequently hap-
pened that they had to ascend a ladder, instead of a pair of stairs,
Southwest Virginia, 1740-1786. 137
leading from the dining and ball room to a loft, the floor of
which was made of clapboards lying loose.
"This ascent, one might think, would put the bride and her
attendants to the blush; but the foot of the ladder was commonly
behind the door, which was purposely opened for the occasion,
and its rounds at the inner ends were well hung with hunting-
shirts, dresses and other articles of clothing. The candles being
on the opposite side of the house, the exit of the bride was noticed
but by few.
"This done, a deputation of young men, in like manner, stole
off the groom and placed him snugly by the side of his bride. The
dance still continued; and if seats happened to be scarce, as was
often the case, every young man when not engaged in the dance,
was obliged to offer his lap as a seat for one of the girls; and the
offer was sure to be accepted. In the midst of this hilarity the
bride and groom were not forgotten. Pretty late in the night
some one would remind the company that the new couple must
stand in need of some refreshments. Black Betty, which was the
name of the bottle, was called for and sent up the ladder; but
sometimes Black Betty did not go alone. I have sometimes seen
as much bread, beef, pork and cabbage sent along as would afford
a good meal for half a dozen hungry men. The young couple
were compelled to eat and drink more or less of whatever was
offered.
"But to return: it often happened that some neighbors or rela-
tions, not being asked to the wedding, took offence, and the
mode of revenge adopted by them on such occasions was that
of cutting off the manes, foretops, and tails of the horses of the
wedding company.
"On returning to the infare, the order of procession and the
race for Black Betty was the same as before. The feasting and
dancing often lasted several days, at the end of which the whole
company were so exhausted with loss of sleep that many days'
rest were requisite to fit them to return to their ordinary labors."
HUNTING.
"This constituted one of the greatest amusements, and, in many
instances, one of the chief employments of the early settlers. The
various intrigues of a skillful hunter, such as mimicking a turkey.
128 Southtvest Virginia, 1740-1786.
owl, wolf, deer, etc., were soon learned, and the eye was taught
to catch, at a glance, the faintest impressions left upon the earth
by any animal. IMarks which would be by any but a hunter
overlooked were easily detected. The times and grounds on
which elk, deer, etc., fed were soon learned, and then the important
lesson of preventing spells or enchantments by enemies was
studied, for it is a singular fact that all hunters are more or less
superstitious. Frequently, on leaving home, the wife would throw
the axe at her husband to give him good luck. If he chanced to
fail to kill game, his gun was enchanted or spelled, and some old
woman was shot in effigy, then a silver bullet would be run with a
needle through it and shot at her picture. To remove these spells,
they would sometimes unbreech their rifles, and lay them in a
clear running stream for a certain number of days. If this failed,
they would borrow patching from some other hunter, which
transferred all the bad luck to the lender, etc.
"Game was plenty at the time this country was first settled by
the whites, and, acordingly, the woods furnished most of ihe
meat. The elks and buffaloes were generally killed at the licks
whither they repaired to salt themselves. Animals were hunted
there not merely for their meat, but for their skins and furs.
These served to pay for powder, lead, or anything else, being nomi-
nally the currency of the country.
"Neither was hunting a mere pastime, devoid of skill, as it now
is. The hunter might be considered somewhat of a meteorologist;
he paid particular attention to the winds, rains, snows, and frosts,
for almost every change altered the location of the game. He
knew the cardinal points of the compass by the thick bark and
moss on the north side of a tree, so that during the darkest and
most gloomy night he knew which was the north, and so the
direction of his home or camp.
"The natural habits of the deer were well studied; and hence he
knew at what times they fed, etc. If, in hunting, he found a deer
at feed, he stopped, and though he might be open to it, did not seek
to obscure himself, but waited till it raised its head and looked
at him. He rem.ained motionless till the deer, satisfied that
nothing was in sight, again commenced feeding. He then began
to advance, if he had the wind of it, and if not, he retreated and
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 139
came up another way, so as to place the deer between himself and
the wind. As long as the deer's head was down, he continued to
advance till he saw it shake the tail. In a moment he was the same
motionless object, till again it put down its head. In this way he
Avould soon approach to within sixty yards, when his unerring rifle
did the work of death. It is a curious fact that deer never put
their heads to the ground, or raise it, without shaking the tail be-
fore doing so."*
*Bickley.
130 Soutluvest Virginia, 17 46-17 S6.
CHAPTEE VI.
SOUTHWEST VIEGINIA— FINCASTLE COUNTY.
1773-1777.
The House of Burgesses of Virginia in tlie fall of the year
1772, in answer to the petition of the inhabitants and settlers on
the waters of the Holston and New rivers, representing their in-
conveniences by reason of the extent of Botetourt county and their
remote situation from the courthouse, with the consent of the
Governor and Council enacted a law providing that from and
after the first day of December, 1772, the said county of Bote-
tourt should be divided into two distinct counties; that is to say,
all that part of said county within a line to run up the east side
of New river to the mouth of Culberson creek, thence a direct line
to the Catawba road where it crosses the dividing ridge between
tlie north fork of Roanoke and the waters of New river, thence
with the top of the ridge to the bend where it turns eastwardl.y,
thence a south course, crossing Little river to the top of the Blue
Eidge mountain, shall be established as one distinct county, to be
called and known by the name of Fincastle ; and all that other part
thereof which lies to the east and northeast of said line shall be
one other distinct county and retain the name of Botetourt. The
act establishing Fincastle did not designate the place of holding
the court of the county, but, by order of the Governor of the
Colony, the Lead Mines, now in Wythe county, Virginia, was desig-
nated as the county seat of the new county.*
Pursuant to a commission from the Governor of the Colony
bearing date December 1, 1772, directed to
William Preston, William Inglis,
William Christian, John Montgomery,
Stephen Trigg, Eobert Doach,
Walter Crockett, James McGavock,
Anthony Bledsoe, James Thompson,
Arthur Campbell, William Eussell,
Benjamin Estill, Samuel Crockett,
Alexander McKee,
*8 Hen. Stat., page 600.
Southwest Virginia, 17JiG-J786. 131
the first County Court for Fincastle county assembled at the
Lead Mines, on New river, in the present county of Wythe, on
the 5th day of January, 1773. The following m^^anbers of the
court being present:
Arthur Campbell, James Thompson,
-William Preston, William Inglis,
William Christian, Stephen Trigg,
Walter Crockett, James McGavock.
Arthur Campbell and James Thompson administered the oath
to William Preston and William Inglis, and they to :
William Christian, Stephen Trigg,
Robert Doach, Walter Crockett,
James McGavock, James Thompson,
Arthur Campbell.
Subsequently in the year 1773, William Campbell, James Mc-
Corkle and William Herbert were commissioned and qualified as
members of the court. The following officers of the new county
qualified on that day:
Sheriff Fincastle count}',
^William Preston.
Deputy Sheriffs :
Daniel Trigg, John Floyd,
James Thompson, Henry Moore.
Surveyor Fincastle County,
William Preston.
Deputy Surveyors :
John Floyd, Robert Preston,
Daniel Smith, Robert Doach,
William Russell, James Douglas.
Clerk Fincastle county,
John Byrd.
Deputy Clerks :
William Christian,
Stephen Trigg, ?
Richard Madison.
132 Southwest Virginia, 174-6-1786.
King-'s Counsel or Dept. Attorney :
John Aylett, Jan. 5th, 1773.
Thomas Madison, May 3rd, 1774.
The following attorneys qualified in this court during the exist-
ence of the county:
Ephraim Dun! op, Luke Bowyer,
John May, Jolin Todd,
Harry Innes, Charles Simm,
John Aylett, Gabriel Jones,
Benjamin Lawson, Thomas Madison.
On the first day of the court many interesting orders were en-
tered, several of the number being here copied as entered :
"The Court doth appoint the house adjoining the Court House,
where the court is now held, for a prison, which house William
Preston, Sheriff, doth protest against as insufficient.
"Ordered that Stephen Trigg send for weights and measures
for the use of the said county, as soon as possible and on as low
terms as he sells goods to his best customers on.^'
"Ordered that John Byrd do provide all necessary law books for
this county, and that he bring in his charge."
A number of orders were entered by the court on the first day
of its existence, in regard to that section of Fincastle county lying
iipon the waters of the Holston and Clinch rivers.
Leave was given Francis Whitney and William Kennedy to
erect mills on the properties on which they lived, on the Holston
river and the waters of Holston river.
In this connection it is worthy of notice, tliat at the time per-
mission was given to Kennedy and Whitney to erect their mills,
there was but one mill on the waters of the Holston, so far as the
records show, to-wit: the mill of Arthur Campbell at Royal Oak.
"It is further ordered by the court that Williiim Edmiston,
George Adams, John Beaty, Joseph Drake, David Snodgrass and
James Kincannon, or any three of them, being first sworn, do view
the nighest and best way from the Town House (now in Smyth
County, Va.,) to the Eighteen Mile creek (now Abingdon), and
report."
It seems that there was some contention among the settlers on
Holston as to the location of this road; for, on the 3nd day of
South IV est Virginia, 17^6-1786. 133
^iarcli, 1773, the above order was set aside by the court, and on
that day it was ordered that John Hays, Benjamin Logan, William
Campbell, Arthur Bowen and Thomas Eamsey, or any three of
them, being first sworn, do view the several ways proposed for said
road and make a report of the conveniences and inconveniences
attending the same. The viewers thus appointed made their re-
port to the County Court on July 6, 1773, recommending that the
lower road be established, which report was confirmed and the road
established, and William Campbell, William Edmiston and James
Bryan were appointed overseers of the said road.
The above is all the information that the records contain of the
controversy in regard to the establishment of this road, but I ap-
prehend that the action of the court in establishing the road as
they did had considerable bearing in settling the future location
of the county seat of Washington county at Abingdon.
Upon the second day of the court it was recommended to his
Excellency the Governor that he wnll be pleased to establish the
courthouse for this county at a piece of land commonly called
]\rc(^airs place, now the property of Eoss & Co., and the lands
of Samuel Crockett, in lieu of the Lead Mines, for the several
reasons following:
That tlie said McCall's place and Crockett's lies on the Great
Eoad that passes through the county, and that it is well watered,
timbered and level.
That it is more central than the mines, and that it is in the
neigbborhood of a great deal of good lands and meadows.
That the Lead ]\Iines are near the south line of the county, that
there is no s})ring convenient, the place is very bare of timber and
in a neighborhood where there is very little pasture, and it is
certainly off the leading road.
From which order Arthur Campbell dissented.
While the records are to some extent indefinite as to the action
of the Governor upon this petition, it is clear that the county seat
was not removed from the Lead Mines during the existence of
the county of Fincastle, as is evident from other records that
have a bearing upon this subject.
The County Court on March 2, 1774, entered the following
order :
^'Ordered that the surveyor lay off the prison bounds, and that
134 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
he include all the houses and some part of the waters." This
clearly applied to the Lead Mines.
The act of the Legislature of Virginia establishing Montgomery
county directed that the county scat should be Fort Chiswell, and
one of the first orders of that court was to appoint commissioners to
contract for and superintend the erection of a courthouse.
The above facts, when taken in connection with the circumstance
that Fort Chiswell was at no time mentioned in the records of the
County Court of Fincastle county, except in the petition above set
out, are conclusive in regard to this matter.
On May 2, 1773, the court ordered that Robert Davis, Alexan-
der Wylie, Eobert Buchanan, and Hugh Gallion, any three of
whom being duly sworn, do view the nighest way from James Davis'
(at the head spring of the Middle Fork of the Holston) to James
Catherine's (near the head spring of the South Fork of the Hol-
ston), but the records of Fincastle fail to show that this road was
established.
The next order of importance entered by the court was on May
5, 1773, when the court ordered that Isaac Riddle, Wesley White,
James Young and James Montgomery do view the nighest and best
way from Eleven Mile creek, on Holston, by Jones' place at the
crossing place, going to Watauga, and report.
The commissioners made their report on July 6, 1773, and the
road was established, and James Montgomery, James Young and
Isaac Riddle were appointed overseers.
On March 3, 1773, James McCarthy, Matthew Mounts, John
Smith, Thomas Byrd, Nathan Richerson and Peter Lee, or any
three of them, being first sworn, were ordered to view the nighest
and best way from the Town House on Holston to Castle's Woods
on Clinch river, and make report.
The commissioners made their report on July 6, 1773. and the
road was partially established, beginning at John Dunkin's in Elk
Garden, thence over the mountains to Poor Valley, about five miles
to the westward of the old path, and from thence by the Big Lick,
through Lyon's Gap to the Town House.
On March 2, 1773, the court directed John Maxwell, Robert Al-
lison and Robert Campbell, or any three of them, to view the
nighest and best way from Catherine's Mill to Charles Allison's,
and so on to Sinclair's Bottom, and report.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 135
On July 6, 1773, the commissioners reported, and the court di-
rected a road to l)e established from Catherine's Mill to Charles
Allison's house on the condition that the people on the South Fork,
or any others on same road who think it useful, do cut the same
themselves.
On the same day the court ordered that William Edmiston,
Kobert Edmiston, Alexander McNutt, Robert Buchanan, and John
Edmiston, any three of whom may act, do view a road from Charles
Allison's house down the South Fork to Robert Edmiston's house
and report.
On May 5, 1773, the County Court directed Arthur Camp-
bell to take a list of the tithables on the Clinch river and on all its
forks, as low as the Elk Garden, and on the Wolf Hill creek.
And William Eussell to take a list of the tithables from the
Elk Garden, on the Clinch, down to the county line.
And Anthony Bledsoe to take a list of the tithables from Cap-
tain Campbell's down to the county line, on the North, South, and
Middle Forks of Holston river.
And that Captain James Thompson do take a list of the tith-
ables in Captain William Campbell's company.
On May 4, 1773, the court directed James Hays, John Hays,
"^ Archibald Buchanan, and Robert Davis to view the nighest and
best way by Robert Davis' into the leading road from Holston.
At" the meeting of the County Court on July 6, 1773, Jonathan
Jenning was fined forty shillings for speaking of the court with
contempt and saying that they were self-interested and partial.
And on the same day Stephen Trigg, James McCorkle, Walter
Crockett and James McGavock were directed to agree with work-
men to repair the second house from the courthouse for a prison
in such manner as is necesssary.
And on the 9th day of July, 1773, Joseph Black, Andrew Col-
vill, Samuel Ewen, William Blackburn, George Blackburn, Samuel
Briggs, Davis Galloway, John Berry, Christopher Acklin, John
Keswick, John Vance and Benjamin Logan were directed to clear
the nearest and best way from Samuel Brigg's^ on Eighteen Mile
creek, to James Bryan's, on Eleven Mile creek.
On November 2, 1773, on the petition of a number of the in-
habitants, it was ordered that William Priest, Henry Willis, Jo-
seph Martin, William Bowen and Joseph Craven, any three of
136 Southwest VirgiJiia, 1746-1786.
whom may act, after being duly sworn, do view the best way from
Maiden Springs settlement (now in Tazewell county) into the
Great Road.
No further orders pertaining to Washington county were en-
tered by the court until March 2, 1774, on which day Patrick Por-
ter was given leave to build a mill on Falling creek, the waters
of Clinch river, this being the fii-st mill erected on Clinch river,
so far as the records disclose.
On the same day, on the motion of Charles Allison, leave was
given him to build a mill on his land, on the South Fork of Hol-
ston, near the head spring.
On the same day the court appointed Andrew Miller and Thomas
Ramsay commissioners to view the nighest and best way from
Thomas Ramsay's, by Kennedy's mill, to the Great Road.
At a meeting of the court on May 3, 1774, tlie court, on the
petition of the inhabitants of Beaver creek, m;dei"ed Benjamin Lo-
gan to open a road from James Fulkerson's to the wagon road at
Joseph Black's (now Abingdon), the best and most convenient way.
On the same day the court directed Anthony Bledsoe to take a
list of the tithables in Captains Looney's, Shelby's, and Cocke's com-
panies, William Campbell in his own and Captain Arthur Camp-
bell's companies, and William Russell in his own and Captain
Smith's companies.
The County Court of Fincastle county was composed of men of
dignity and respectability, and they purposed to deal with the at-
torneys practicing at tlieir bar in such a manner as to command
the respect of the bar and the citizens of the county, and, as an
evidence of the manner in which they dealt with the members of
the legal profession, we here copy an order made 1)y this court on
May 3, 1774:
"John Gabriel Jones, having misbehaved himself in the court, it
is ordered that for his contempt he make his fine with our Ijord,
the King, by the ])ayniont of twenty shillings, and that he be
taken," etc.
On the same day a peculiar order was entered, which read as
follows :
"John Dougherty came into court, and, it being fully proved
that his left ear had been bitten off by a person in an affray, it is
ordered that the same be recorded." It is hard to perceive his ob-
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 137
ject in making this proof and having it recorded unless there ex-
isted at that time, or at an earlier date, some law or custom by
which criminals lost their ears.
At the August term of this court it was directed that a road be
built from Arthur Camjjbell's mill to Blue Spring, at the head
of Cripple creek, by way of Eye Bottom, and on August 3d, being
the same day as the above order, the court directed a road to be
built from Arthur CampbelFs mill to Archibald Buchanan's, on ^
the North Fork of Holston river.
In the preceding pages we have given a great deal of the records
of the County Court of Fincastle county directing the opening of
the first roads and granting permission to erect the first mills on
the waters of the Holston and Clinch rivers, and it cannot be other-
wise than interesting, for, previously to the opening of these roads,
the early settlers of this country, as a general rule, were compelled
to follow the Indian and buffalo trails made before their advent.
The main trail down the Holston and through Washington
county was, from the very earliest time of which we have any
record, called the Great Eoad. Before the erection of the first mills
on the waters of the Holston, if the early settlers wished to have
meal, it could be obtained in one way only, and that by cracking
the grains of corn with a hammer or by some other similar method.
The first deed executed to any of the settlers on the Holston was
dated January 5, 1773, and was made by Edmund Pendleton. It
conveyed to Benjamin Logan and John Sharp 676 acres of land
situated on Beaver creek, alias Shallow creek, and was the same
land surveyed by John Buchanan for Edmund Pendleton on April
?2, 1750.
On the same day Edmund Pendleton conveyed to William
Cocke and Eobert Craig 950 acres of land situated on Spring
creek, alias Eenfro's creek, being the same land surveyed by John
Buchanan, deputy surveyor of Augusta county, for Edmund
Pendleton on April 3, 1750, and described in the survey as lying
on Eenfro's creek. This survey covered a considerable part of the
farms now owned and occupied by C. L. Clyce, Jerry Whitaker,
Allen Lester and H. B. Eoberts on Spring creek.
The four conveyances above described are older by more than
one year and three months than any others to be found in the pres--
138 Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
ent bounds of Washington county, the next oldest conveyance
bearing' date April 14, 1774.
It may be interesting at this point to know the oath required of
the members of the first County Court administering justice among
the settlers upon the Holston. We here copy the oath :
"You shall swear that as a justice of the peace in the county
of Fincastlo in all articles in the commission to you directed, you
shall do equal right to the ])oor and to the rich, after your cunning,
wit and power according to law; and 3^ou shall not be of any
counsel of any quarrel hanging before you, and the issues, fines and
amercements that shall happen to be made, and all the forfeitures
which shall fall before you, you shall cause to be entered, without
any concealment or embezzling; you shall not let for gift or other
causes, but well and truly you shall do your office of justice of the
peace, as well within your county court as without; and you shall
not take any gift, fee or gratuity, for anything to be done by vir-
tue of your office, and you shall not direct or cause to be directed,
any warrant by you to be made to the parties, but you shall direct
them to the Sheriff, or bailiffs of said county, or other the King's
officers or ministers, or other indifferent persons, to do execution
thereof, so help you God."
The oath of a justice of the County Court in Chancery was as
follows :
"You shall swear that well and truly you will serve our sovereign
lord, the King, and his people, in the office of a justice of the county
court of Fincastle in ( 'hancery, and that you will do equal right to
all manner of people, great and small, high and low, rich and poor,
according to equity and good conscience and the laws and usages
of this colony and dominion of Virginia, without favor, affection
or partiality. So help you God."*
A considerable number of people had settled in the immediate
vicinity of Abingdon, and eastward to the head waters of the Hol-
ston, and in the beginning of this year two congregations of Pres-
byterians had organized in the county — one at Sinking Spring
(now Abingdon) and another at Ebbing Spring, on the Middle
Fork of the Holston river, near the James Byars farm ; and in the
month of April, 1773, Samuel Edmiston was commissioned by the
two congregations above mentioned to present a call to the Rev.
*5 Hen. Stat., pages 489-490.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 139
Charles Cummings at the Eeverend Presbytery of Hanover when
sitting at the Tinkling Springs, in Angusta county. This call was
reduced to writing and signed by the members of the Sinking
Spring and Ebbing Spring congregations. It was presented to
the Presbytery by Samuel Edmiston for the services of Mr. Cum-
mings at Brown's meeting-house, in Augusta county, on June 3,
1773. The call with the signatures thereto is as follows:
"A call from the united congregations of Ebbing, and Sinking
springs, on Holston's river, Fincastle county, to be presented to the
Rev, Charles Cummings, minister of the gospel, at the Eeverend
Presbytery of Hanover when sitting at the Tinkling Spring:
Worthy and Dear Sir, — We, being in very destitute circum-
stances for want of the ordinances of Christ's house statedly ad-
ministered amongst us ; many of us under very distressing spiritual
languishments ; and multitudes perishing in our sins for want of
the bread of life broken among us; our Sabbaths too much pro-
faned, or at least wasted in melancholy silence at home, our hearts
and hands discouraged, and our spirits broken with our mournful
condition, so that human language cannot sufficiently paint. Hav-
ing had the happiness, by the good providence of God, of enjoying
part of your labors to our abundant satisfaction, and being uni-
versally well satisfied by our experience of your ministerial abili-
ties, piety, literature, prudence and peculiar agreeableness of your
qualifications to us in particular as a gospel minister — we do,
worthy and dear sir, from our very hearts, and with the most cor-
dial affection and unanimity agree to call, invite and entreat you to
undertake the office of a pastor among us, and the care and charge
of our precious souls, and upon your accepting of this our call, we
do promise that we will receive the word of God from your mouth,
attend on your ministry, instruction and reproofs, in public and
private, and submit to the discipline which Christ has appointed
in his church, administered by you while regulated by the word of
God and agreeable to our confession of faith and directory. And
that you may give yourself wholly up to the important work of the
ministry, we hereby promise to pay you annually the sum of ninety
poimds from the time of your accepting this our call ; and that we
shall behave ourselves towards you with all that dutiful respect
and affection that becomes a people towards their minister, using
all means within our power to render your life comfortable and
140
SovtJL'west Virginia, 17Ji6-17S6.
liapp}''. We entreat 3'ou, worthy and dear sir, to have compassion
u])on us in this remote part of the world, and accept this our call
and invitation to the pastoral charge of our precious and immor-
tal souls, and we shall hold ourselves bound to pray.
(I^orge Blackburn,
Win. Blackburn,
John Vance,
John Casey,
Benjamin Logan,
l»(bert Edmiston,
Tliomas Berry,
IJobert Trimble,
AVm. McGaughey,
David Dry den,
V.'m. McNabb,
\ . •)hn Davis,
] [albert McClure,
Arthur Blackburn,
"^ Tiathl. Davis,
Saml. Evans,
\Vm. Kennedy, "^
Andrew McFerran,
Saml. Hendry,
John Patterson,
-Tames Gilmore,
John Lowry,
Wm. Christian,
Andrew Colville,
Eobert Craig,
Joseph Black,
Jonathan Douglass?,
John Cusick,
Eobert Gamble,
, Andrew Martin,
Augustus Webb,
Samuel Briggs,
Wesley White,
James Dorchester,
James Fulkerson,
John Long,
Eobert Topp, v
John Hunt,
Thomas Bailey,
David Getgood,
Alex. Breckenridge,
George Clark,
James Molden,
William Blanton,
James Craig, "^
Thomas Sharp,
John Berry,
James Montgomery,
Samuel Houston,
Henry Creswell,
George Adams,
George Buchanan,
James Dysart,
William Miller,
Andrew Deeper,
David Snodgrass,
Danl. McCormick,
Francis Kincannon,
Jos. Snodgrass,
James Thompson,
Eobert Denniston,
William Edmiston,
Saml. Edmiston,
Andrew Kincannon,
John Kelley,
John Eobinson,
James Kincannon,
Margaret Edmiston,
John Edmiston,
John Boyd,
David Carson,
Samuel Buchanan,
William Bates,
William McMillin,
John Kennedy,
Eobert Lamb,
Thos. Eafferty,
Tliomas Baker,
John Groce,
Eobert Buchanan,
Chrisr. Acklin,
Joseph Gamble,
John McNabb,
Chris. Funkhouser,
John Funkhouser, Sr.,
John Funkhouser, Jr.,
Thomas Evans,
William Marlor,
Wm. Edmiston,
Thos Edmiston,
John Beaty,
David Beaty,
George Teator,
Michl. Halfacre,
Stephen Cawood,
James Garvell,
Eob. Buchanan, Jr.,
Edward Jamison,
ISTicholas Brobston,
Alexander McNutt,
William Pruitt,
John McCutchen,
James Berry,
James Trimble,
Eichard Heggons,
Southwest 'Virginia, 17JfG-17SG.
141
Stephen Jordan,
Alex. Laughlin,
James Inglish,
Richard Moore,
Thomas Ramsey,
Samuel Wilson,
Joseph Vance,
William Young,
William Davidson,
James Young,
John Sharp,
Robert Kirkham,
Martin Pruitt,
Andrew Miller,
William Berry,
James Piper,
James Harrold,
Saral. Newell,
David Wilson,
David Craig,
William Berry,
V Moses Buchanan,
John Lester^
Hugh Johnson,
Edward Pharis,
Joseph Lester,
Saml. White,
William Lester,
William Poage,
Saml. Buchanan,
Thos. Montgomery,
Samuel Bell,
John Campbell.
Tliis call was accepted by Mr. Cummings, but no record is pre-
served of any installation being appointed or performed. It was
intended that this call should have been presented at a session of
the Presbytery in the preceding April, but, for some cause, it was
delayed until the following June. Having accepted this call, he
removed his family to the Holston, and settled upon three hundred
acres of land on the head waters of Wolf Hill creek, which he pur-
chased from Dr. Thomas Walker for the consideration of thirty-
three pounds, and which land was conveyed to him by Dr. Walker
by a deed dated April 14, 1774.
We hope our readers will indulge us if we pause at this place
to remark that every acre of this three-hundred-acre tract of land
is to-day, 129 years thereafter, in the possession of the direct lineal
descendants of the Rev. Charles Cummings. A remarkable fact.
As soon as he had settled his family on the Holston, he set about
the performance of the duties pertaining to his station with all the
energy and intelligence of which he was capable. He purchased
from Dr. Thomas Walker, for five shillings, by estimation, fifty-
five acres of land, which land was deeded ])y Dr. Walker "to the
minister and congregation of the Sinking Spring Church and
their successors for the time being on April 14, 1774. This tract
of laud was bounded as follows: Beginning at a red oak corner to
Andrew Colvill, running thence E. 10 poles to a white oak, N.
20', E. 126 poles to a hickory; thence N. 31', W. 48 poles to a
chestnut on a high ridge, S. 53', W. 96 poles to a chestnut and a
white oak on the side of said ridge, S. 35', E. 46 poles to a large
white oak, S. 40', W. 28 poles to a black oak near Sinking Spring,
142 SouUiwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
S. 30', E. 48 poles to a white oak; thence E. 12 poles to the be-
ginning."*
A considerable part of noi-thwest Abingdon is built upon this
same tract of land.
The first meeting house of the Sinking Spring congregation was
erected on the first rise in the present cemetery in the rear of the
Martin vault, and was a very large cabin of unhewn logs.' It was
from 80 to 100 feet long and about 40 feet wide, and had a very
remarkable appearance.
Governor David Campbell, in speaking of the men who signed
this call, says: "In early life I knew personally many of those
whose names are signed to it, and I knew nearly all of them from
character."
They were a most respectable body of men, were all Whigs in the
revolution, and nearly all, probably every one of them, performed
military service against the Indians, and a large portion of them
against the British in the battles of King's Mountain, Guilford
Courthouse, and other actions in North and South Carolina.
Such was the character of the first men who inhabited our
county and worshipped in this, the first place of worship, on all the
waters of the Holston and Clinch.
Daniel Boone again visited the waters of the Holston in the
fall of this year. The Boones and five other families set out from
their homes on the Yadkin river, N". C, on September 25, 1773.
They passed through Washington county and on into Powell's
Valley (on their way to Kentucky), where they were joined by
William Bryan, with forty other people. While this body of emi-
grants were leisurely traveling through Powell's Valley a small
company, under James Boone, Daniel Boone's eldest son, left the
main body and went to the home of William Eussell to secure pro-
visions, and on the 9th of October James Boone and his company,
among the number being Eussell's son Henry and two slaves, en-
camped a few miles in the rear of the main body. At this point
they Avere, the next day, waylaid by a small company of Shawnese
and Cherokee Indians, who were supposed to be at peace with the
white settlers. On the morning of the 10th James Boone and his
entire company were captured, and, after cruel torture, were slaught-
ered. After this occurrence Daniel Boone's company of emigrants
*Deed Book "A," page — , Fincastle county.
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 143
broke up and returned to the settlements, and Daniel Boone and his
family returned to the home of William Kussell, near Castle's
Woods, on Clinch river, about forty miles distant, and took up their
residence in an empty cabin on the farm of Captain David Glass,
seven or eight miles from William Eussell's, where they spent the
M'inter of 1773-1774. Daniel Boone had twice, previously to this
time, visited the Kentucky wilderness, and had decided to settle in
the beautiful country which he had visited. And thus rudely were
his first efforts frustrated.
The motive actuating the Indians in making this assault must
have been jealousy of these, the first emigrants to Kentucky. They
could not have had for their object the securing of plunder alone,
for the Indians had long lived in peace with the white settlers
without any effort to murder or burn. In this assault six men,
including Boone's son, were slain, and their cattle and plunder
secured and carried oft'.
We have now reached the time when the eyes of all frontiersmen
were fixed upon the fertile lands lying beyond the Cumberland
mountains. The Kentucky wilderness was no longer visited by
the hunter alone, but the explorer and the settler were seeking an
opportunity to acquire a future home in the new country.
A distinguished author, in speaking of the condition of the
Indians at that time, says : "Recently they had been seriously
alarmed by the tendency of the whites to encroach on the great
hunting grounds south of the Ohio, for here and there hunters and
settlers were already beginning to build cabins along the course of
that stream," and in another place the same author speaks as fol-
lows : "The savages grew continually more hostile, and in the fall
of 1773 their attacks became so frequent that it was evident a
general outbreak was at hand. Eleven people were murdered in
the county of Fincastle alone. The Shawnese were the leaders in
all these outrages. Thus the spring of 1774 opened with every-
thing ripe for an explosion. The Virginia borderers were fear-
fully exasperated, and were ready to take vengeance upon any In-
dian, whether peaceful or hostile, while the Shawnese and Mingoes,
on their side, were arrogant and overbearing, and yet alarmed at
the -continual advance of the whites."*
The Virginia Colony was at peace with the Cherokees, and
*The Winning of the West, Vol. I., pages 250-252.
144 SouUiivest Virginia, 1746-1786.
most of the Indians' depredations during the year 1774-1775
were comniitted by the northwest Indians.
A Mr. Russell and five of his companions were murdered by the
Indians in the fall of the year 1773 in Fincastle county, and about
the same time two men, l)y the name of Cochran and Foley, and
a man by the name of Hayes, with his three companions, were
murdered by the Indians, but as to the locality of these murders
or the circumstances attending them we have no information.!
In the course of the summer of 1774, a number of the citizens
of Fincastle county were captured and killed by the northern In-
dians, among the number being Thomas Hogg and two men near
the mouth of the Great Kanawha, and Walter Kelly, with three or
four other persons, below the falls of the Great Kanawha. William
Kelly and a young woman were captured on Muddy creek, a branch
of Green river. Kelly was killed and the young woman carried
into captivity. During this same summer a man by the name of
Shockley, a scout employed by the County Court of Fincastle
county, was shot and killed, and on the 7th day of August, 1774,
the house of one John Lybrook, situated on Sinking creek in the_
present county of Craig, was attacked by the Indians. Lybrook
was wounded in the arm, and only saved his life by hiding in a
cave. Three of his children (one of them a sucking infant), a
young woman, a daughter of one Scott, and a child of widow
Snidow were killed. All the children were scalped but one, and
were mangled in a most crxiel manner. At the same time and in
the same community, John and Jacob Snidow and a younger
brother, whose name is not known, were captured and made pris-
oners. Two of the brothers escaped from the Indians on the fol-
lowing Wednesday, but tlic other was carried into captivity and
remained with the Indians until he acquired their habits and be-
came so fond of their manner of life that he ever afterwards lived
among them. At the same time a Miss Margaret McKiusie was
captured and carried into captivity, where she remained for eighteen
years, at the end of which time she returned to New river and
married a Mr. Benjamin Hall.
The white settlers near Pittsburg were on very bad terms with
the northwest Indians. On the last day of April, 1774, a small
•company of Indians left the camp of the Indian Chief Logan, at
tWm. Preston Mss.
Southwest Virginia, 17-^6-1786. 145
Yellow creek, and crossed the river to visit a man by the name of
Greathouse, a place which they had been accustomed to visit for
tlie purpose of buying rum from the whites. The Indians were
made drunk with liquor, and while in this condition were cruelly
murdered by Greathouse and his associates. Nine Indians in all
were murdered at this time, among the number being the entire
family of the Indian Chief Logan. Logan had always been the
friend of the white man, and had always been exceedingly kind and
gentle to women and children, notwithstanding the fact that some
of his relatives had been killed by the whites some years before.
Logan was a skilled marksman and a mighty hunter of com-
manding dignity, who treated all men with a grave courtesy and
exacted the same treatment in return. He was greatly liked and
respected by all the white hunters and frontiersmen whose friend-
ship and respect were worth having. They admired him for his
dexterity and prowess, and they loved him for his straightforward
honesty and his nol)le loyalty to his friends.*
This last stroke was more than Logan could stand. He at-
tributed his misfortune to Captain Cresap, and he began at once
to raid the settlements with small bands of Indians. This raid
was upon the settlers of the Holston and the Clinch. On his first
expedition he took thirteen scalps, six of the number being chil-
dren. He was pursued and overtaken by a party of men com-
manded by a man by the name of McClure, but he ambushed and
defeated them on McClure's creek, now in Dickenson county, and
it was from this occurrence that the creek obtained its name.
Again, during the same year, he visited the waters of Holston,
within twelve miles of the present location of Bristol, and cap-
tured and murdered many families. At the house of one Eoberts,
whose family was cut off, Logan left a war-club, to which was tied
a note, which read as follows :
"Captain Cresap, — ^What did you kill my people on Yellow
creek for? The white people killed my kin at Conestoga a great
while ago, and 1 thought nothing of that. But you killed my kin
again on Yellow creek, and took my cousin prisoner. Then I
thought I must kill, too, and I have been three times to war since;
but the Indians are not angry, only myself.
elulv 21, 1774. "Captain John Logan."
^Winning of the West, Vol. I., page 256.
146
Southwest Virginia, 174G-1786.
While the settlers at Pittsburg provoked this diificulty, it seems
that the settlers on the Holston and Clinch were the principal
sufferers thereby.
Numerous surveyors, with their instruments, visited Kentucky
during this year. Among the number were James Douglas, Han-
cock Taylor, Isaac Bledsoe, and John Floyd. The last named left
the home of Colonel William Preston at Smithfield on April 9,
1774, accompanied by eight men. They passed down the Kanawha
river to the Ohio, where they were informed by a company they
met that an Indian war was probable; notwithstanding which in-
formation they continued their explorations, surveying many tracts
of land on the Ohio and in the present State of Kentucky. We here
give a list of a few surveys made by the men who visited Kentucky in
this year. We copy this list from the fact that it is exceedingly
interesting, and for the further reason that it contains the first sur-
veys made by the white man in the present State of Kentucky :
Notable Tmcit^ of Land, Surveyed hy John Floyd, Hancock Taylor and James Doug-
las, in 1774-i77S, lying mostly in Kentucky
Time.
April 25
1774
"
'20.
177-i
"
22,
177-1
June
7,
1774
"
»,
1774
April 15,
1774
June
7,
1774
July
8,
1774
7,
1774
n,
1774
12,
1774
H,
1774
20,
1774
May
t>,
1774
June
2,
1774
Name.
Mitchell Clay.
Wni. Inglis.
Wm. Inglis.
Col. Wm. Cliristian.
Jas. McCorkle.
Col. Geo. Washington
John Floyd.
Patrick Henry.
Patrick Henry.
Wui. Christian.
Wm. Russell. •>*
Wm. Preston. ^
Audley Paul.
Wm. Christian.
Wm. Byrd.
May 24, 1774 Wm. Fleming.
" 27, 1774 John Corlin.
June 2, 1774 Henry Harrison.
Mar. 23, 1774 Samuel Scott.
N- Aug. 8, 1774]Andrew Lewis.
" 16, 1774 Evan Shelby.
May 31, 1774 Zachary Taylor.
June 17, 1774 Zachary Taylor.
" 29, 1774 Adam Stephens.
1, 1774 Jolin Connallv.
1, 1774 Wm. Byrd.
I
2, 1774 Thomas Bower.
14, 1775 James McDowell.
11, 1775 Samuel McDowell.
July
June 12, 1774 Wm. Christian.
" 24, 1775 Jethro Sumner.
" 3, 1774 Arthur Campbell.
May 12, 1774 Wm. Christian
ACBBS
1,000
200
1,(100
2,000
1,000
2,000
1,000
2,000
3,000
3,000
2,000
1,000
2,000
1,000
1,000
3,000
200
1,000
40
2,000
2,000
1,000
2,000
2,000
1,000
1,00)
•..',000
2,000
1,000
2,000
1,000
1,000
Location.
Botii sides Bluestone Cr., Clover Bottom.
H'd Spring Wolf Cr., Burks Garden.
Abbs' Valley.
Bear Grass Creek, Br. of Ohio.
Bank of Cole River.
W. Bear Grass Creek.
Elk Horn Creek, Br. of Kentucky.
N. Br. Ky. River, 95 miles from the Ohio.
S. Br. Kentucky River.
N. Br. of Kentucky.
S. Side Ohio, 3 miles above mouth of Ky.
About 11 miles below mouth of Ky., called
" Mt. Byrd."
On Ohio River.
On Ohio, 19 miles above falls.
On Ohio, 23^ miles from h'd of fall.
The Narrows. Giles County.
Sinking Cr., 8 miles from Ky. River, N,
course from Harwood Landing.
Elk Horn Cr., Branch of Kentucky.
On Ohio, Mouth Bear Grass Creek.
Br. Kv. that empties at Gireat Crossing.
N. si<lV K y. River and N.W. side Klk Horn
Creek al)i)ut8 miles I'min a remarkable
l)arialo feeding place, tlie Ky. River.
S. side Ohio River opposite the falls.
S. side ( ihio, nearly opposite flrst island
above the falls.
Near falls of Ohio.
S. Fork Licking Cr., Br. of Ohio.
Elk Horn Cr., Br. of Kentucky.
Salt River, 20 miles from Great Falls Inc'd
Spring and Buffalo Lick.
Elk Horn Creek (Sumner's Forest).
Br. Bear Grass Cr., S. Br. Ohio.
Big Bone Lick and Butt'alo Lick.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 147
This is a partial list only of the many surveys made in west
Fincastle county, now in the State of Kentucky, by Hancock Tay-
lor, James Douglas, and John Floyd.
These men were sent to Kentucky by direction of the Governor
of the Colony of Virginia, and all the lands thus located were for
men or the assignees of men who took part in the French-Indian
war of 1754-1763, and who acquired their rights under the King's
proclamation of 1763. When the war with the Indians broke out
Lord Dunmore was exceedingly anxious to give information of that
fact to the surveyors, and he directed Colonel William Preston,
who had charge of the defenses of Fincastle county, to communi-
cate the fact to the surveyors. Colonel Preston authorized Colo-
nel William Russell, who then lived on the Clinch river, to employ
two faithful woodmen to go to Kentucky and convey the infor-
mation to the several companies of surveyors and their assistants,
and on the 26th of June, 1774, Captain Russell wrote Colonel
William Preston as follows : "I have engaged to start immediately
upon the occasion two of the best hands I could think of, Daniel
Boone and Michael Stoner, who have engaged to reach the coun-
try as low as the falls, and to return by way of Gasper's Lick, on
Cumberland, and through Cumberland Gap, so that by the as-
siduity of these men, if it be not too late, I hope the gentlemen
will be apprized of the imminent danger they are daily in."
Boone and Stoner set out immediately upon their trip, and warned
Colonel James Harrod and thirty men at Harrodsburg, now Ken-
tucky. They found another company of surveyors at Fontainebleau
and on the Kentucky i-iver they found Captalin John Floyd
and his men, and thence they passed to the falls of the Ohio, where
they warned the surveyors at Mann's Lick, and, after an absence
of sixty-one days, they reached J^ussell's Fort on Clinch river,
having traveled 800 miles on foot. Captain John Floyd imme-
diately set out for the settlements, and on the 13th day of August,
1774, he reached the home of Colonel Preston at Smithfield, and
reported : "That on the 8th of July he and three others parted with
fourteen men, who were also engaged in the surveying business,
and went about twenty miles from them to finish his part of the
work, and that they were to meet on the first day of August at a
place on the Kentucky, known by the name of the Cabin, in order
to proceed on their homeward journey. That on the 24th of July
148 Southivest Virginia, 1746-1786.
he, with his three men, repaired to tlie place appointed, where he
found that a part, or all of the conipan}^, had assembled according
to agreement, but had gone off in the greatest precipitation, leav-
ing him only this notice written on a tree: 'Alarmed by finding
some people killed, we arc gone down,' upon which he, with his
small party, iminodiatoly set out, steering for our settlements; and
after an extremely painful and fatiguing journey of sixteen days
through mountains almost inaccessible and ways unknown, he at
last arrived on Clinch river. He did not well understand the
notice left him on the tree, whether part of the company had as-
sembled at the Cabin, and that they had gone down to the camp in
order to warn those who were at work in that neighborhood of
danger, or whether the whole company had met and were departed
down the Mississippi, as several in the company had before pro-
posed returning home that Avay, with a view both to see the coun-
try and avoid the fatigue of returning by land. The names of
some of the party not then returned are here inserted, viz. : James
Douglas, Hancock Ta5dor and Isaach Bledsoe ; Surveyors John Wil-
lis, Willis Lee, Captain John Ashby, Abraham Hempenstall, Wil- '
liam Ballard, John Green, Lawrence Darnell, Mordecai Batson,
John Sodusky, James Strother and John Ball."
The northwestern Indians were greatly alarmed at the encroach-
ments of the white settlers, who were daily surveying and settling
the lands on the banks of the Ohio and in the wilderness of Ken-
tucky. The white settlers insisted that they had a right to survey
and settle these lands under the>])]'ovisinus of tlie treaty made with
the confederacy of the Six Nations at Fort Stanwix in 17G8, and
they were greatly exasperated by the conduct of the northwestern
Indians in denying their right to said lands and in murdering
their people and plundering their settlements. The white settlers
had long been restrained by the British Government from aveng-
ing their wrongs on the Indians, and now they clamored for war.
When the news of the disposition of the Indians reached Williams-
burg the Governor of the Colony and the House of Burgesses of
Virginia immediately took steps to protect the western settlers.
By the direction of Lord Dunmore, Lieutenant-Colonel William
Christian, in the month of May, 1774, left Williamsburg for Fin-
castle county with instructions to use every means possible to pre-
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1780. 149
vent the inhabitants from leaving tlie settlements on the approach
of the Indian war.
As soon as he reached his home a council of the militia officers
was held on June 35, 1774, at the Lead Mines, at which council it
was resolved that Lieutenant-Colonel Christian should march with
a body of militia to the Clinch settlements. The militia Avas at !
once mustered in and equipped at the personal expense of Colonel j
Christian, JVilliam Preston and Major Arthur Campbell, and pro-
ceeded to the Clinch settlements, where every preparation was '
made for war. A considerable part of this force accompanied
Colonel Christian to Point Pleasant in the following August. Gen-
eral Andrew Lewis was directed by Governor Dunmore to organize
a sufficient force to carry war into the enemy's country. The organi-
zation of this body of troops was intrusted to General Andrew
Lewis and Colonel Charles Lewis, of Augusta county. As it would
require some time to organize this body of troops, it was thought
proper to send an advance guard into the enemy's country to re-
strain the Indians wjiile the whites were preparing, and early in
June about 400 men, under the command of Colonel Angus Mc-
Donald, assembled at Wheeling and immediately marched to the
Indian grounds, on the Muskingum, with the loss of two men killed
and eight or ten wounded. The Indians fled, and in a few days
returned and sued for peace, but their pretensions were not sin-
cere; and they were only delaying McDonald while they removed
their property and their women and children beyond the reach of
the Virginia troops. Thereupon Colonel McDonald burned the In-
dian towns and crops and retraced his steps to Wheeling. As soon
as the troops had retired from the Indian country small bands of
Indians invaded the western settlements at many points.
Many of the people of Fincastle county were murdered, and by
the first of August all the people in Pincastle county, except a few
of the settlers on Holston, were gatliered into small forts-; and
such was the unhappy situation of the people that they could not
attend to their plantations, nor were the scouts employed by the
county able to investigate the inroads of the enemy, as they came
in small parties and traveled along the mountains with great cau-
tion. About the last of June one Knox, who went to Ohio with the
surveyors in the spring, reached the settlements and reported :
"That on the 13th of June one Jacob Lewis departed from the
150 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
camp on Salt river in the morning to hunt, and had never been
heard of since; that on the 8th of July, being at said camp, about
one hundred miles from the Ohio and nearly opposite to the falls,
he, with nine otliei-s, was surprised and fired upon by a party of
about twenty Indians; that two men were killed on the spot, viz.:
James Hamilton, from Fredericksburg, and James Cowan, from
Pennsylvania, and as the enemy rushed upon them before it was
possible to put themselves in any posture of defence, they were
obliged to abandon their camp and make their escape to a party of
thirty-five men who were in that neighborhood. Next day, the
whole company, being forty-three in number, after burying the
dead, set out for the settlement on Clinch river, wliere they arrived
on the 29th, after making several discoveries of the enemy on the
way."
General Andrew Lewis had orders to raise four companies of
militia from Fincastle and Botetourt counties, to rendezvous at
Camp Union, and to march thence down the Kanawha to Fort Pitt,
at the junction of the Kanawha and Ohio. Three companies of
men were raised in Fincastle county and were commanded by:
Captain Evan Shelby, the forces from the waters of the Holston,
Captain Wm. Eussell, the forces from the waters of the Clinch,
Captain Wm. Herbert, the forces from the waters of New river.
Captain Eussell left EusselFs Fort on Clinch river previously
to August 13th, 1774, and Captain Evan Shelby began the march
with his forces on the 17th of August, 1774, both companies join-
ing the regiment of Colonel Cliristian on New river; from which
place Colonel Christian, with his regiment, proceeded to Camp
Union. On the 11th day of September, 1774, the army of Gen.
Lewis began the march down the Kanawha, and, after the expira-
tion of twenty-five days, they arrived at Point Pleasant and camped
upon the banks of the Ohio. When the army of General Lewis left
Camp Union, Colonel Wm. Christian, with four hundred inen, was
directed to remain and guard the provisions until the return of a
company of horse that had been sent to the mouth of Elk, when he
was to hurry things forward. But the companies of Captains
Eussell and Shelby accompanied the army of General Lewis upon
its march from Camp Union to Point Pleasant and w^ere attached
to the command of Colonel Charles Lewis, of Augusta county.
At the same time, Lord Dunmore raised a considerable force in
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 151
the lower Valley and was to march to Fort Pitt, and thence to
Point Pleasant, where he was to meet General Lewis. Instead of
doing so, he marched into Ohio. General Lewis, upon his arrival at
Point Pleasant, waited several days, expecting the arrival of Lord
Dunmore, and, not hearing from him, he dispatched messengers,
but whether he received a reply before the battle is a matter of dis-
pute. On Sunday, the 9th day of October, the sturdy Scotch-Irish
Presbyterians from Pincastle county spent the day in religious
exercises, little dreaming that on the coming day they would be sur-
prised by the Indians and win the most hotly contested battle with
the Indians recorded in the annals of our history.
"^BATTLE OF POINT PLEASANT.
Early Monday morning, October 10th, James Mooney and James
Hughey, of Captain Eussell's company, left the camp in quest of
deer. When about three miles distant from their camp, they unex-
pectedly came in sight of a large body of Indians, in their en-
campment. The Indians, when they discovered the two men, fired
upon them, and Hughey was killed by a white renegade by the name
of Travenor Eoss. Mooney made his escape, and, returning to the
camp, reported that he had seen a body of the enemy covering four
acres of ground, as closely as they could stand by the side of each
other.
About the same time, two members of Captain Shelby's company,
James Eobertson and Valentine Sevier, who had been out hunting,
returned to camp and reported that they had met a body of hostile
Indians advancing upon the camp, and that they had fired upon
them at the distance of ten steps. It being dark, the Indians were
thereby halted. As no official report of this battle has been pre-
served, I will here give the report as obtained by Dr. Hale from a
letter published in the Belfast (Ireland) News Letter, a paper
published at that time.
BELFAST.
Yesterday arrived a mail from New York brought to Falmouth
by the Harriot packet boat, Captain Lee.
Williamsburg, Va., November 10th.
The following letter is just received from the camp on Point
Pleasant, at the mouth of the Great Kenhawa (as then spelled),
dated October 17, 1774:
"The following is a true statement of a battle fought at this
152 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
place on the 10th instant: On Monday morning about half an
hour before sunrise, two of Captain Eussell's company discovered a
large party of Indians about a mile from the camp, one of which
men was shot by the Indians; the other made his escape and
brought in the intelligence. In two or three minutes after, two of
Captain Shelby's men came in and confirmed the account.
"Colonel Andrew Lewis, being informed thereof, immediately
ordered out Colonel Charles Lewis, to take command of one hun-
dred and fifty of the Augusta troops, and with him went Captain
Dickinson, Captain Harrison, Captain Wilson, Captain John
Lewis, of Augusta, and Captain Lockridge, which made the first
division. Colonel Fleming was then ordered to take comn^and of
one hundred and fifty men of the Botetourt, Bedford, and Fin-
castle troops, viz., Captain Thomas Buford, from Bedford; Captain
Love, of Botetourt; Captain Shelby and Captain Eussell, of Fin-
castle, which made the second division.
"Colonel Charles Lewis's division marched to the right some
distance from the Ohio, and Colonel Fleming with his division, on
the bank of the Ohio to the left.
"Colonel Charles Lewis's division had not marched quite half
a mile from the camp when, about sunrise, an attack wac made on
the front of his division, in a most vigorous manner, by the united
tribes of Indians, Shawnese, Delawares, Mingoes, Tawas, and of
several other nations — in number not less than eight himdrcd, and
by many thought to be one thousand.
"In this heavy attack. Colonel Charles Lewis received a wound,
which, in a few hours caused his death, and several of his men fell
on the spot; in fact, the Augusta division was obliged to give way
to the heavy fire of the enemy. In about a second of a minute after
the attack on Colonel Lewis's division, the enemy engaged the front
of Colonel Fleming's division on the Ohio, and in a short time the
Colonel received two balls through his left arm and one through liis
breast, and, after animating the officers and soldiers, in a most f fdm
manner, to the pursuit of victory, retired to the camp.
"The loss in the field was sensibly felt by the officer- in par-
ticular; but the Augusta troops being shortly after reinforced from
the camp by Colonel Field, with his company, together with Cap-
tain McDowell, Captain Matthews, and Captain Stewart, from
Augusta ; Captain Paulin, Captain Arbuckle and Captain McClana-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 153
h.m, from Botetourt, the enemy no longer able to maintain ihbiv
girimd, were forced to give way till they were in a line Avith the
troops. Colonel Fleming being left in the action on the Ohio.
"In this precipitate retreat Colonel Fleming was killed. During
this time, which was till after twelve, the action in a siT'.all degree
elated, but continued, except at short intervals, sharp enoacji till
after one o'clock. Their long retreat gave them a most ad\'anta-
geous spot of ground, from which it appeared to the otticer^ so diffi-
cult to dislodge them that it was thought most advisahlo to stand
as the line was then formed, which was about a mile and ^ <|ii.arter
in length, and had sustained till then a constant and equal v.-eight of
the action, from wing to wing.
"It was till alwiit half an hour of sunset they continued firing on
us scattered shots, which we returned to their disadvan'cago. At
length the night coming on they found a safe retreat.
•''Phey had not the satisfaction of carrying off any of our men's
scalps, save those of one or two stragglers they killed before the
engagement. Many of their dead they scalped, rather than we
should have them, but our troops scalped upwards of twenty of
their men that were first killed.
"It is beyond doubt their loss, in number, far excecided ours,
'.vhich is considerable.
"The return of the killed and wounded in the above battle, same
as our last, is as follows:
"Killed — Colonels Charles Lewis and John Fields, Captains
John Murray, E. McClanahan, Samuel Wilson, James Ward, Lieu-
tenant Hugh Allen, Ensigns Cantiff and Bracken, and forty-four
privates. Total killed, fifty-three.
"Wounded — Colonel William Fleming, Captains John Dickinson,
Thomas Buford, and I. Skidman, Lieutenants Goldman, Eobinson,
Lard and Vance, and seventy-nine privates. Total wounded, eighty-
seven; killed and wounded, one hundred and forty."
When Colonel Charles Lewis fell, Captain Evan Shelby succeed-
ed to the command of the regiment, and ^saac Shelby, his son,
succeeded to the command of his father's company, and late in the
evening General Lewis directed Captains Isaac Shelby, Matthews,
and Stewart to assail the Indians in the rear, by advancing up the
Kanawha river, protected by the bank and undergrowi:h. In the
execution of this order considerable difficulty was experienced, and
154 Southwest Virginia, 174-6-1786.
possibly, failure would have been the result had it not been for
the request of John Sawyers an Orderly Sergeant in Captain
Shelby's company, for permission to take a few men of the com-
pany and drive the Indians from the position which afforded them
protection. Permission was granted and the Indians were dislodged.
The companies above mentioned having gained their rear, the In-
dians precipitately took their flight across the Ohio.
It is generally admitted that this was one of the most hotly (on-
tested battles between the white men and the Indians that took
place in the history of the early settlement of our country. The
terrible conflict that took place between the white men and the
Indians in this battle is hard to depict in ordinary language. De
Hass thus describes the conflict :
"The battle scene was terribly grand. There stood the com-
batants, terror, rage, disappointment, and despair riveted upon the
faces of one, while calm resolution and the unbending will to do or
die were marked upon the other. Neither party would retreat,
neither could advance. The noise of the firing was tremendous. ISTo
single gun could be distinguished, it was one continuous roar.
"The rifle and the tomahawk now did their work with dreadful
certainty. The confusion and perturbation of the camp had now
arrived at its greatest height. The confused sounds and wild up-
roar of the battle added greatly to the terror of the scene. The
shouting of the whites, the continued roar of fire-arms, the war-
whoop and dismal yelling of the Indians, were discordant and ter-
rific.^
Colonel Christian, whom General Ivewis had left at Camp Union,
as soon as he had complied with the. orders of General Lewis, set
out for Point Pleasant, with all the troops under his command
except one company of Fincastle men, whom he left under the
command of Anthony Bledsoe at Camp Union to guard the sup-
plies and take care of the sick. He marched his troops with all
possible expedition, and arrived at Point Pleasant on the evening
of October 10th, after the battle had been fought. Soon thereafter.
Lord Dunmore negotiated a treaty of peace with the Indians at one
of their towns in Ohio, by which the northwest Indians ceded all
their claims to the lands lying south of the Ohio river, to the King
of England.
General Lewis marched his army back to Camp Union where it
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 155
was disbanded. The body of militia that went from Fincastle upon
this expedition were armed with rifle guns, and, being good woods-
men, were looked upon to be at least equal to any troops for the
number that had been raised, in America. It is sufficient to know
that the credit of having been the first to discover the approach
of the Indians, and thereby, possibly, to secure the preservation of
General Lewis's army, was due to the vigilance of the backwoods-
men from Fincastle. And in addition to that, it should be a mat-
ter of pride to every citizen of this section of Virginia to know that
the troops from the waters of the Clinch and the Holston were
among the number to receive the first assault of the enemy, and to
their skill and bravery may be accredited, the successful flanking,
and consequently the precipitate rout, of the Indian army. The
killed and wounded among the Fincastle troops were considerable.
The names of a few of the killed and wounded are given below :
Eobert Campbell, private, afterwards granted a pension of 10
pounds per year.
James Hughey, killed.
James Eobinson, wounded.
Mark Williams, private, killed.
John Carmack, private, wounded.
John Steward, wounded.
John McKenney, wounded, three times.
Lieutenant Vance, wounded.
The following is a partial list of the men who accompanied Cap-
tain Evan Shelby on this expedition :
Isaac Shelby, Captain. Eobert Handley,
James Eobertson, 0. S. William Casey,
James Shelby, John Stewart, wounded;
Henry Span, Eichard Burke,
Frederick Mongle, Elijah Eobertson,
John Carmack, Eichard Holliway,
George Brooks, Julius Eobison,
Abram Newland, Benjamin Graham,
Emanuel Shoatt, Hugh O'Gullion,
Peter Forney, James Hughey,
John Fain, . Basileel Maxwell,
Samuel Fain, Valentine Sevier, 0. S.,
Samuel Samples, John Sawyers, 0. S.,
156
Southwest Virginia, 171,6-1786.
Jolm Find ley,
Daniel Mongle,
John Williams,
Andrew Torrenee,
Isaac Newland,
George Eiddle,
Abram Boga^-d,
William Tucker,
Samuel Vance,
^ Samuel Hand ley,
Arthur Blackburn,
George Armstrong,
Mack Williams,
Conrad Nave,
John Riley,
Rees Price,
Jarrett Williams,
Charles Fielder,
Andrew Goff,
Patrick St. Lawrence,
John Bradley,
Barnett O'Guillion.
Captain Wm. Russell's company:
James Mooney, Joseph Hughey.
FINCASTLE TROOPS.
COMPANIES NOT KNOWN.
Daniel Smith,
Rohert Campbell,
Andrew Waggoner,
Jolm Gilmore,
John Lyle,
Francis Berry,
James Robinson,
Hickman,
AVilliam Tate,
George Findley,
Rees Bowen.
Walter Steward, Adjt.
Fincastle troops.
William- Campbell, Captain.
William McFarland,
John McKenney,
John Moore,
Conrad Smith,
John Floyd,
John Steward,
John Campbell, Lieutenant;
"Moses Bowen, died with
small-pox on expedition ;
Daniel Boone, upon his return fi'om Kentucky to Russell's Fort,
on the 13th day of August, found Captain William Russell absent
on the Point Pleasant expedition, and he immediately set out with
a body of troops to reinforce him, but was ordered back to protect
the settlers on the Clinch, where he remained for some time.
The forts on Clinch river, at this time, with the number of men
in each and the officers in command, were as follows :
Fort Blackmore, sixteen men, "Sergeant Moore commanding.
Fort Moore, (twenty miles east), twenty men, Lieutenant Daniel
Boone commanding. Fort Russell (four miles east), twenty men,
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 157
Sergeant W. Poa^ eonimancling. Fort Glade Hollow, (twelve miles
east), fifteen vaeA, Sergeant John Duncan commanding. Elk Gar-
den* (fourteen miles east), fifteen men, Sergeant John Kinkead
commanding. Maiden Spring, (twenty-three miles east), five men,
Sergeant John Crow commanding. Whitlow's Crab Orchard, three
men. Ensign John Campbell commanding.
Boone was very diligent in protecting the settlements and was
commissioned Captain for his valued services.
As soon as the Indians ascertained that so many of the citizens
from the waters of the Clinch were absent on the expedition to
Point Pleasant, they began a series of very alarming raids. On the
8th of September, 1774, they visited the home of John Henry, on
the Clinch river, now in Tazewell county, Virginia, in Thompson's
Yalley, he, having on the 15th day of May of the same year, settled
upon a tract of land that Daniel Smith, Deputy Surveyor of Fin-
castle county, had surveyed for him. Henry received a dangerous
wound from which he died, his wife and three children were taken
prisoners, and on the same day a man was taken prisoner by an-
other party of Indians on the Hplston river. On the 13th day of
September, 1774, a soldier was fired upon by three Indians on the
Clinch river, but was not hurt. He returned the fire and, it is be-
lieved, killed an Indian. This company of Indians were pursued
for several days, by Captain Daniel Smith and a company of militia,
but they could not be overtaken. On tlie 23d, two negroes were
taken prisoners at Blackmore's Fort, on waters of Clinch river, and
a great many horses and cattle were shot down. On the 24th day
of the same month, an entire family were taken and killed, at Reedy
Creek, a branch of the Holston river, near the Cherokee line. On
Sunday morning, the 25tli, hallooing and the report of many guns
were heard. These last murders were believed to be the work of the
Cherokees, who appeared at that time in very bad humor.
The victory gained at Point Pleasant on the 10th of October put
a stop to all organized raids upon the frontier settlements, for the
time being. Upon the return of the Fincastle troops from the expe-
dition to Point Pleasant, the free-holders of Fincastle county as-
sembled at the Lead Mines and drafted an address to the Hon.
John, Earl of Dunmore, thanking him heartily for his exertions in
*Aboiit six miles east of Lebanou on North Fork of Cedar Creek, on land of
the Stuart Land & Cattle Company.
V'-
158 Southwest Virgima, 1746-1786.
their behalf in the late war, and expressed the wish that the late
disturbances might be amicably settled.
On the 14th day of April, 1774, Dr. Thomas Walker conveyed to
James Piper 365 acres of land on a branch of the Holston river
.called Wolf Hill Creek ; on tJie same day, he conveyed to Alexander
Breckenridge 360 acres on Wolf Hill Creek, to Samuel Briggs 313
acres on Wolf Hill Creek, alias Castle's Creek, to Joseph Black, 305
acres on Eighteen Mile Creek (this being the name of the small
=*-.cre.ek that flows through Abingdon) and to Andrew Colvill, 334
acres on Wolf Hill Creek. The persons above named were the first
v settlers in the vicinity of Abingdon.
In the spring of the year 1774, the free-holders of Fincastle
county met at the Lead Mines, their courthouse, and elected two
members of the Virginia House of Burgesses to represent Fincastle
county, viz. :
William Christian, Stephen Trigg.
It may not be amiss at this point to state briefly the laws gO'V-
erning the qualifications required of the citizens of Fincastle coun-
ty to vote and hold office, in this, the last year that the Colony
of Virginia adhered to the crown of England. The freeholders of
every county possessed the liberty of electing two of the most able
and fit men, being freeholders and qualified to vote, to represent
their county in all the General Assemblies. The electors or voters
were required to own an estate of freehold for his own life or the
life of another, or other greater estate in at least fifty acres of land,
if no settlement be made upon it, or twenty-five acres with a planta-
tion and house thereon at least twelve feet square, said property be-
ing in the county in which the electors offered to vote. The sheriff
was required to deliver to the minister and reader of every parish in
his county a copy of the writ of election, and, upon the back of
every such writ, he was required to endorse the fact that said elec-
tion would be held at the courthouse in his county upon a day
appointed by him. And the minister or reader was required to
publish the same immediately after divine services, every Sunday
between the receipt of said writ and the day of election, under
heavy penalty for failure to do so. It was further provided
that every freeholder actually residing in the county should per-
sonally appear at the courthouse on the day fixed and give his vote,
upon the penalty of forfeiting two hundred pounds of tobacco, if he
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 159
failed to vote. The sheriff was required to appoint fit persons, and
these persons after being duly sworn, were required to enter the
names of every candidate in a distinct column, and the name of
every freeholder giving his vote, under the name of the person
voted for, all of which was required to be done in the presence of
the candidates or their agents, and upon the close of the polls the
sheriff was ordered to proclaim the names of the successful candi-
dates. And it was further provided, that any person who should
directly or indirectly, except in Ms usual and ordinary course of
hospitality, in his own house, give, present, or allow to any person
or persons, having voice or vote in such elections, any money, meat,
drink, entertainment or provisions, or make any present, gift, re-
ward, or entertainment, or any promise, agreement, obligation, or
engagement, to any person, etc., shall be declared guilty of bribery
and corruption,* and rendered incapable to sit, or vote, or to hold
office."
Thus it will be seen that the laws were very strict in regard to the
manner of holding elections, and it cannot be doubted, that an elec-
tion held under such laws would be honest and would express the
will of the people. Our present law-makers might well learn a
lesson from the example set them by the law-makers of the Colony
of Virginia, under the rule of King George III.
Early in the history of Fincastle county, the House of Burgesses
enacted a law which provided, "that from and after the first day
of December next, the inhabitants of the said county of Fincastle
shall discharge all fees due from them to the secretary and other
officers in said county at the rate of 8s and 4 pence, for every hun-
dredweight of gross tobacco.
The principle asserted by the regulators at the Alamance had
spread among the American colonies, until, at the time mentioned,
it seemed to permeate the whole American body politic, and, on the
other hand', the British Parliament had repealed all the port dnties
imposed at their session in 1767, except the duty of three pence a
pound on tea, which was continued for the purpose of maintaining
the principle contended for by the British Parliament, to- wit: that
they had the right to tax the American Colonists without giving
them representation, and not for the purpose of revenue only.
*8 Hen. S., page 526.
160 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
The American Colonists were opposed' to the principle of taxation
without representation, and they opposed a small tax as bitterly
as they opposed the port duties of 1767. The collection of the tax
was resisted at every point, and, at Boston, the cargoes of tea were
thrown into the sea. Whereupon the British Parliament passed
a bill closing Boston Harbor, upon which information great indig-
nation pervaded the entire colonies. The House of Burgesses of
Virginia observed the first day of the operation of the bill closing
Boston Harbor, as a fast day, and declared : "That any attack made
on one of our sister colonies to compel submission to arbitrary taxes
is an attack ma^e on all British America, and threatened ruin to the
rights of all, unless the united wisdom of the whole be applied."
And they proposed a general Congress to take such action as the
united interests of the American Colonies might require. This
suggestion, made by the House of Burgesses, was accepted by all
the colonies and the first Continental Congress met in Philadelphia,
on the 5th day of September, 1774, just one month and five
clays preceding the battle of Point Pleasant.
The officers and men under command of Lord Dunmore, hearing
of the action of the first Continental Congress, met and adopted
a resolution, which was as follows :
"Eesolved, That as the love of liberty and attachment to the
real Interests and just rights of America outweigh every other
consideration, they would exert every power within them for
the defence of American Liberty and for the support of her just
rights and privileges; not in any precipitate, riotous, or tumultu-
ous manner, but when regularly called forth by the unanimous
voice of our countrymen."
THE EEVOLITTIOlSr.
The period with which we now purpose to deal will be ever
remembered, by reason of the production of one of those master-
pieces of political evolution which moidd the world and fix the
destiny of mankind, an event unsurpassed in the history of the
world; the founding of the American Pepublic. In dealing witli
this subject, we deem it necessary to an intelligent understanding
of the motives and actions of the men of that day, to give, with some
particularity, the story complete, from its inception to its culmina-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 161
tion, recognizing that a story partly told is misleading, and the
true merits of a controversy are oftentimes obscured by a mutilated
statement, or a half-told tale. For ten years preceding the resort
of the American Colonies to extreme measures, a bitterly contested
controversy constantly engaged the attention of the British Gov-
ernment and the American Colonies, and it has been well said by
one of the fathers of our country, that the "Revolution was fin-
ished before the war was commenced." Indeed, it seems to the stu-
dent of our early history at this distance from the time of the
occurrences of which we are now Avriting, that our early fathers in
leaving their homes, the highlands of Scotland', the bogs of Ireland,
the fertile lands of old England, were imbued with exceedingly un-
favorable feelings toward the land of their nativity. They were
devoid of that affection which usually accompanies the wanderer
from his native home, and it is certain that they lost no opportunity
to instil their prejudices and dislikes into the minds of their chil-
dren and neighbors, and to resist the operation and execution of
the laws enacted by the British Parliament and the rules attempted
to be enforced by the Governors of the Colonies. This spirit was
evidenced in old Virginia as early as 16C6, at the time of Bacon's
Rebellion. This spirit, so prevalent among the English colonies in
America, can be attributed to the fact that a large majority of the
early emigrants were driven from their homes by the tyranny of
the English Government, and, after establishing themselves in
this country, their hatred was accentuated by the arbitrary conduct
of the English ministry, in pursuing a contracted policy, the natural
result of which was to abridge the liberties and property rights of
the colonies. A large majority of the early emigrants to the Amer-
ican colonies were inspired by that spirit of liberty that has been
so much cherished in the history of our country. They were be-
lievers in the principles which prevailed at the time of the execu-
tion of Charles the First. Many of them were the followers of
Oliver Cromwell, and detested the arbitrary conduct of the King
and the rulers of England, and it was from this cause that they left
their native country to seek a home in the wilderness, vnth the deter-
mination never to submit to the oppressions of their native land.
Many of the early emigrants found their homes among the high
mountains and the pathless deserts of the new continent, the
nursery of the spirit of freedom. Among the early emigrants to
162 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
this new country were numerous "Dissenters," a class of people
who worsEipped God according to their own reason and conscience,
men who acknowledged no authority but that which had been estab-
lished by their own sanction and consent, and this applied to their
religious principles as well as to their ideas of government. They
did not admit the right of the British government to compel them
either to attend or to support the established church.
They were principally from the middle classes, and neither ad-
mitted nor countenanced any claims to honor or distinction, save
such as arose from the exercise of industry, talent, or virtue. In
their native country they had been tenants, and did not regard
themselves superior to the lowest of their fellow citizens; in their
new homes they were freeholders, and believed themselves equal to
the best, and, naturally, they soon detested that idea which prevailed
in the English government, in accordance with which individuals
pretended to be their natural rulers and superiors.
During the French-Indian war, the British Ministry proposed a
union of the Colonies for the purpose of repelling the French en-
croachments on the western waters; and, pureuant to this proposi-
tion, the Governor and leading members of the provincial assem-
blies convened at Albany, N. Y., in the year 1754. This Assembly
was unanimously of the opinion, that the Colonies were able to
defend themselves from the encroachments of the French without
assistance from the English Government. They proposed "that a
Grand Council should be formed of members to be chosen by the
provincial Assemblies, which Council, together with a governor to
be appointed by the Crown, should be authorized to make general
laws, and, also, to raise money from all the Colonies for their com-
mon defence." This proposition was received by the British Min-
istry with displeasure, and, in answer thereto, the ministry submit-
ted a counter-proposition, which was as follows : "That the Gov-
ernors of all the Colonies, attended by one or two members of their
respective Councils, should, from time to time, concert measures for
the whole of the Colonies, erect posts and raise troops, with a power
to draw upon the British treasury, in the first instance, for the
expense, which expense was to be reimbursed by a tax to be laid on
the Colonies by an act of Parliament."
It will be well to observe that thus early began the contentions
between the British Parliament and the English Colonies ; the Brit-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 163
ish Ministry seeking to lodge the taxing power in the hands of the
British Parliament, a body in which the American Colonies were
not permitted to have representation, whereas, the Colonies insisted
that the taxing power should be vested in their local institutions.
This proposition upon the part of the British Ministry gave great
dissatisfaction to the people of the Colonies, as they objected to
being taxed by a body in which they had no representation, but no
further action was taken in regard to the matter, until the conclu-
sion of the war, in 1763.
Previously to the year 1764, when the British Parliament desired
a contribution from the American Colonies, the object was accom-
plished by a simple requisition upon the legislatures of the several
Colonies for the sum needed and, in every instance, the requisition
had been honored and the money furnished with a willing hand.
But, in tliis year, the British Parliament sought to obtain from
tlie American Colonies by a speedier method the taxes desired.
A measure was proposed in the British Parliament by the Pre-
mier, George Grenville, in the year 1764, having for its object, "the
raising of a revenue in America," the entire proceeds of which were
to go into the exchequer of Great Britain.
We have before mentioned the dissatisfaction produced by the
proposition to have the British Parliament levy a tax upon the
American Colonies, when the entire proceeds of the tax were to be
used for the development and the protection of the Colonies, and
the reader can well imagine the alarm and indignation that pre-
vailed in the American Colonies at the suggestion of the British
Premier, that the British Parliament should lay a tax upon the
American Colonies, the entire proceeds of which were to go into the
exchequer of Great Britain.
Pursuant to the foregoing proposition, Mr. Grenville, on the
lOtli of March, ,1764, reported a resolution imposing certain
""stamp duties" on the colonies, with the request that it shoidd not
be acted upon till the next session of the Parliament. This gave
the agents of the colonies in England an opportunity to transmit
copies of this resolution to the assemblies of the several colonies.
At the time of the receipt of this information the Virginia
House of Burgesses was in session, and immediately appointed a
committee to prepare an address to the King of Great Britain and
to the two houses of the British Parliament. We hare give the
164 Southwest Virginia, 17J,0-17S6.
several addresses in full as prepared by this committee and re-
ported to the Mouse of Burgesses "To the King's most excellent
Majesty."
"Most gracious Sovereign,
"We, your Majesty's dutiful and loyal subjects, the Council and
Burgesses of your ancient C'olony and dominion of Virginia,
now met in General Assembly, beg leave to assure your Majesty of
our fii'm and inviolable attachment to your sacred person and gov-
ernment; and, as your faithful subjects here, have at all times
been zealous to demonstrate this truth by a ready coaupliance
with the royal requisitions during the late war, by which a heavy
oppressive debt of near half a million hath been incurred, so at
this time they implore permission to approach the throne with
humble confidence, and to entreat that your Majesty will be gra-
ciously pleased to protect your people of this Colony in the en-
joyment of their ancient and inestimable right of being gov-
erned by such laws, respecting their internal polity and taxation,
as are derived from their own consent, with the approbation of
their Sovereign or his substitute; a right which, as men, and
descendants of BEITONS, they have ever quietly possessed, since
first, by royal permission and encouragement, they left the mother
kingdom to extend its commerce and dominion.
"Your Majesty's dutiful subjects of Virginia most humbly and
unanimously hope that this invaluable birthright, descended to
them from their ancestors, and in which they have been protected
by your royal predecessors, will not be suffered to receive an injury,
under the reign of your sacred Majesty, already so illustriously
distinguished by your gTacious attention to the liberties of the
people.
"That your Majesty may long live to make nations happy, is
the ardent prayer of your faithful subjects, the Council and Bur-
gesses of Virginia."
The memorial to the House of Lords was as follows :
"To the right honorable the Lord's Spiritual and Temporal, in
Parliament assembled; the Memorial of the Council and Bur-
gresses of Virginia, now met in General Assembly humbly rep-
resents,
"That your memorialists hope an application to your lordships,
the fixed and hereditary guardians of British liberty, will not be
Southivest Virginia, 1746-1786. 165
thought improper at this time, when measures are proposed suh-
versive, as they conceive, of that freedom which all men, especiall}'
those who derive their constitution from Britain, have a right to
enjoy; and they flatter themselves that 3'our lordships will not
look upon them as objects so unworthy your attention as to regard
any impropriety in the form or manner of their application for
your lordship's protection of their just and undoubted right as
Britons.
"It cannot be presumption in your memorialists to call them-
selves by this distinguished name, since they are descended from
Britons who left their native country to extend its territory and
dominion and who, happily for Briton, and as your memorialists
once thought, for themselves too, effected this purpose. As our
ancestors brought with them every right and privilege they could
with justice claim in their mother kingdom, their descendants may
conclude they cannot be deprived of those rights without injustice.
"Your memorialists conceive it to be a fundamental principle
of the British constitution, without which freedom can no where
exist, that the people are not sul^jcct to any taxes but such as are
laid on them by their own consent, or by those who are legally
appointed to represent them ; property must become too precarious
for the genius of a free people, whicli can be taken from them at
the will of others who cannot know M^hat taxes such people can
bear, or the easiest mode of raising them ; and who are not under
that restraint which is the greatest security against a burthensome
taxation, when the representatives themselves must be affected by
every tax imposed on the people.
"Your memorialists are therefore led into an humble confidence
that your lordships will not think any reason sufficient to support
such a power in the British Parliament, where the Colonies can-
not be represented : a power never before constitutionally assumed,
and which, if they have a right to exercise it on any occasion, must
necessarily establish this melancholy truth, that the inhabitants of
the Colonies are the slaves of Britons, from whom they are
descended, and from whom they might expect every indulgence that
the obligations of interest and affection can entitle them to.
"Your memorialists have been invested with the right of taxing
their own people from the first establishment of a regular govern-
ment in the Colony, and requisitions have been constantly made
166 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
to them by their sovereigns on all occasions when the assist-
ance of the Colony was thought necessary to preserve the British
interest in America; from whence they must conclude, they can-
not now be deprived of a ri,uiit they have so long enjoyed and
which they have never forfeited.
"The expenses incurred during the last war, in compliance with
the demands on this C^olony by our late and present most gracious
Sovereigns, have involved us in a debt of near half a million, a
debt not likely to decrease under the continued expense we are at in
providing for the security of the people against the incursions of
our savage neighbors, at a time when the low state of our staple
commodit}', the total want of specie and the late restrictions upon
the trade of the Colonies, render the circumstances of the people
extremely distressful; and wliich, if taxes are accumulated upon
them by the British Parliament, will make them truly deplorable.
"Your memorialisty cannot suggest to themselves any reason
why they should not still be trusted with the property ol their peo-
ple, with whose abilities and the least burthensome mode of taxing
(with great deference to the superior wisdom of Parliament) they
must be best acquainted.
Your memorialists hope they shall not be suspected of being
actuated on this occasion by any principles but those of the purest
loyalty and affection, as they have always endeavored by their con-
duct to demonstrate that they considered their connexion with
Great Britain, the seat of liberty, as their greatest happiness.
"The duty they owe to themselves, and their posterity lays your
memorialists under the necessity of endeavoring to estalilish their
Constitution upon its proper foundation ; and they do most hum-
bly pray your lordships to take this subject into your consideration,
with the attention that is due to^ the well being of the Colonies, on
which the prosperity of Great Britain does, in a great measure,
depend."
• And the remonstrance to the House of Commons was this :
"To the honorable Knights, Citizens and Burgesses of Great Brit-
ain in Parliament assembled :
"The remonstrance of the Council and Burgesses of Virginia.
"It appearing by the printed votes of the House of Commons
of Great Britain, in Parliament assembled, that in a committee
of the whole House, the 17th day of March last, it was resolved, that
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 167
towards defending, protecting and securing the British Colonies
and Plantations in America, it may be proper to charge certain
stamp duties in the said Colonies and Plantations; and it being
apprehended that the same subject, which was then declined, may
be resumed and further pursued in a succeeding session, the Coim-
cil and Burgesses of Virginia, met in the General Assembly, judge
it their indispensable duty, in a respectful manner, but with decent
firmness, to remonstrate against such a measure, that at least a
cession of those rights, which in their opinion must be infringed
by that procedure, may not be inferred from their silence at so
important a crisis.
"They conceive it is essential to British liberty, that laws, impos-
ing taxes on the people, ought not to. be made without the consent of
representatives chosen by themselves; who at the same timje that
they are acquainted with the circumstances of their constituents,
sustain a portion of the burthen laid on them. The privileges
inlierent in the persons who discovered and settled these regions,
could not be renounced nor forfeited by their remO'Val hither, not
as vagabonds or fugitives, but licensed and encouraged by their
Prince and animated with a laudable desire of enlarging the
British dominion and extending its commerce; on the contrary, it
was secured to them and their descendants, with all other rights
and immunities of British subjects, by a Eoyal Charter which
liath been invariably recognized and confirmed by his Majesty and
liis predecessors, in their commissions to the several Governors,
granting a power and prescribing a form of legislation, according to
which, laws for the administration of justice and the welfare and
good government of the Colony have been hitherto enacted by the
Governor, Council and General Assembly, and to them, requisitions
and applications for supplies have been directed by the Crown.
As an instance of the opinion which former Sovereigns entertained
of these rights and privileges, we beg leave to refer to the three
Acts of the General Assembly passed in the thirty-second year of
the reign of King Charles II, one of which is entitled 'An Act for
raising a public revenue for the better support of the government
of his Majesty's Colony of Virginia,' imposing several duties for
that purpose, which, being thought absolutely necessary, were pre-
pared in England and sent over by their then governor, the Lord
Culpeper, to be passed by the General Assembly, with a full power
ICxS Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-17SG.
to give tlie royal assent thereto, and which were accordingly passed,
after several amendments were made to them here; thus tender
was his Majesty of tlu^ rights of his American subjects; and the
remonstrants do not discern by what distinction they can be
deprived of that sacred birthright and most valuable inheritance
by their fellow subjects, nor with what propriety they can be taxed
or affected in their estates, by the Parliament, wherein they are not,
and indeed cannot, constitutionally be represented.
"And if it wore proposed for the Parliament to impose taxes on
the Colonics at all, which the remonstrants take leave to think
would be inconsistent with the fundamental principles of the Con-
stitution, the exercise of that power, at this time, would be ruinous
to Virginia, who exerted herself in the late war, it is feared,
beyond her strength, insomuch that to redeem the money granted
for that exigency, her people are taxed for several years to come :
this, with the larger expenses incurred for defending the frontiers
against the restless Indians who have infested her as much since
the peace as before, is so grievous, that an increase of the burthen
would be intolerable; especially as the people are very greatly dis-
tressed already from the scarcity of circulating cash among them
and from the little value of their staple at the British markets.
"And it is presumed that adding to that load which the Colony
now labors under will not be more oppressive to her people than
destructive of the interest of Great Britain ; for the Plantation
trade, confined as it is to the mother country, hath been a principal
means of multiplying and enriching her inhabitants; and, if not too
much discouraged, may prove an inexhaustible source of treasure
to the nation. For satisfaction on this jwint, let the present state
of the British fleets and trade be compared with what they were
before the settlement of the Colonies ; and let it be considered, that,
whilst property in land may be acquired on very easy terms in the
vast imcultivated territory of North Amei'iea, the Colonists svill
be mostly, if not wholly, employed in agriculture, whereby the
exportation of their comiiindities to Great Britain and ihe con-
sumption of manufactnrers supplied from thence will be daily
increasing. But this most desirable connexion between Great
Britain and her Colonies, supported by such a happy intercourse
of reciprocal benefits as is continually advancing the prosperity
of both, must be interrupted, if the people of the latter, reduced
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 169
to extreme poverty, should be compelled to maniifactiire those arti-
cles they have been hitherto furnished with from the former.
"From these considerations, it is hoped that the Honorable House
of Commons will not prosecute a measure which those who may
suffer under it cannot but look upon as fitter for exiles driven from
their native country, after ignominiously forfeiting her favors and
protection, than for the posterity of Britons, who have at all times
been forward to demonstrate all due reverence to the mother
Kingdom and are so instrumental in promoting her glory and
felicity ; and that British patriots will never consent to the exercise
of any anti-constitutional power, which, even in this remote cor-
ner, may be dangerous in its example to the interior parts of the
British empire, and will certainly be detrimental to its commerce."
The several papers above given breathe a spirit of humility and
dependence that did not correctly voice the sentiments of the Vir-
ginia Colonists, and possibly thereby the British Parliament was
deceived and led to believe that the American Colonies would not
assert their opposition to the tax measures proposed, otherwise
than by protest through their Assemblies.
Most of the Colonies adopted resolutions protesting against the
enactment of such a law ; some offering a specific sum of money in
lieu of the proposed tax, provided it was received as a voluntary
donation. But no one of the Colonies was willing to admit that
the British Parliament had any right to tax them, while they were
denied representation therein.
Mr. Grenville and his friends argued that the Colonies were
already represented in the same manner as a large proportion of the
inhabitants of England who had no vote in the election of mem-
bers of Parliament, and this same argument is often indulged in
by the advocates of a restricted suffrage at the present time. In
answer to this ridiculous argument, the Colonies contended that
"the very essence of representation consists in this; that the
representative is himself placed in a situation analogous to those
whom he represents, so that he shall be himself bound by laws which
he is entrusted to enact and shall be liable to the taxes which he
is authorized to impose."
But the soamd reasoning and the humble petitioning of the
American Colonies did not influence the British Parliament, the
memorials and petitions were not permitted to be read in the House
170 Southwest Virginia-, 1746-1786.
of Coninioiis, and iu the month of March, 17G5, the hill for laying
a stamp duty in .America was called up in the House of Commons,
but little o|)})osition was shown to the measure, and few indeed were
the members who denied the right of Parliament to tax the Colo-
nies.
It may be worthy to note the circumstances attending the
debate upon this measure in the House of Commons. Mr. Charles
Townsend, an advocate of this measure, concluded his speech in
advocacy of the measure in the following words; "And now, will
these Americans, children planted hy our care, nourished, hi/ our
indulgence, till they are grown to a degree of strength and opulence
and protected hy our arms, will they grudge to contribute their
mite to' relieve us from the heavy weight of that burden which we
lie under?" Colonel Barre, one of the most respectable mem-
bers of the House of Commons, with strong feelings of indignation
visible in his countenance and manner, thus eloquently replied ;
"They planted hy your care! No, your oppression planted them
in America. They fled from tyranny to a then uncultivated and
inhospitable country, where they exposed themselves to almost all
the hardships to which human nature is liable, and among others
to the cruelty of a savage foe, the most subtle, and I will take upon
me to say, the most formidable of any people upon the face of
the earth ; and yet, actuated by principles of true English liberty,
they met all hardships with pleasure compared with those they
suffered in their own country from the hands of those that should
have been their friends. They nourished hy your indulgence!
They grew up by your neglect of them. As soon as you began to
care about them, that care was exercised in sending persons to rule
them in one department and another, who were perhaps the deputies
of deputies to some members of this House, sent to spy out their
liberties, to misrepresent their actions and to prey upon them.
Men whose behaviour, on many occasions, has caused the blood of
these sons of liberty to recoil within them, men, who were pro-
moted to the highest seats of justice, some who, to my knowledge,
were glad, by going to a foreign coimtry to escape being brought to
the bar of a court of justice in their own. They protected hy your
arms! They have nobly taken up arms in your defence, have
exerted a valour, amidst their constant and laborious industry, for
the defence of a country whose frontier was drenched in blood.
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 171
while its interior parts yielded all its little savings to yoim*
emolument. And, believe me, remember I this day told you so,
that same spirit of freedom which actuated that people at first
will accompany them still; but prudence forbids me to explain
myself further. God knows I do not at this time speak from any
motives of party heat. What I deliver are the genuine sentiments
of my heart. However superior to me in general knowledge and
experience the respectable body of this House may be, yet, I claim
to know more of America than most of you, having seen and been
conversant in that country. The people, I believe, are as truly
loyal as any subjects the King has, but a people jealous of their
liberties, and who will vindicate them if ever they should be vio-
lated. But the subject is too delicate. I will say no more."
Notwithstanding the opposition made to the passage of this bill,
it passed the House of Commons, and on the 22d day of March,
1765, having met with the unanimous approval of the House of
Lords, it received the royal assent. By the provisions of this bill,
this law was not to go into effect until the first day of November,
1765.
When the intelligence of the passage of this measure reached
Virginia, the indignation and rage of the people knew no bounds.
While no violence was offered, the Virginia House of Burgesses, by
a series of resolutions proposed by Patrick Henry, expressed the
sentiments of the people in a dignified and explicit manner, the
resolutions being as follows;
"Eesolved, That the first adventurers and settlers of this, his
Majesty's Colony and dominion, brought with them and trans-
mitted to their posterity and all others his Majesty's subjects
since inhabiting in this, his Majesty's said Colony, all the privileges,
franchises and immunities that have been at any time held, enjoyed
and possessed by the people of Great Britain.
"Eesolved, That by two Eoyal Charters granted by King James
the First, the Colonists aforesaid are declared entitled to all the
privileges, liberties and immunities of denizens and natural born
subjects, to all intents and purposes, as if they had been abiding
and born within the realm of England.
"Eesolved, That the taxation of the people by themselves, or
by persons chosen by themselves to represent them, who can only
know what taxes the people are able to bear and the easist mode
173 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
of raising tliem and arc equally affected by sucli taxes themselves,
is the distinguishing characteristic of British freedom, and with-
out which the ancient constitution cannot subsist.
"Resolved, That his Majesty's liege people of this most ancient
Colony have uninterruptedly enjoyed the right of being thus gov-
erned by their own assembly in the article of their taxes and inter-
nal police, and the same hath never been forfeited, or in any other
way given up, but hath been constantly recognized by the King and
people of Great Britain.
"Resolved, therefore, That the General Assembly of this Colony
have the sole right and power to lay taxes and impositions upon
the inhabitants of this Colony; and that every attempt to vest
such power in any person or persons whatsoever, other than tho
General Assembly aforesaid, has a manifest tendency to destroy
British as well as American freedom."
The foregoing resolutions passed the House of Burgesses in May,
1765, and formed the first opposition to the. Stamp Act and the
scheme of taxing America by the British Parliament. Heretofore,
it had been humble petitions, now, we have reached the point
where the Colonies were defiantly asserting their rights. Patrick
Henry, at this time, was quite a young man, this being the first
time that he had served his country in the House of Burgesses, and,
while he was inexperienced, he was inspired by that spirit of liberty
which was the common heritage of the early settlers of the Amer-
ican wilderness. "When these resolutions were offered in the House
of Burgesses, many violent debates took place, and, after a great
deal of oppasition, the resolutions were adopted by a majority of,
possibly, one or two votes. During the progress of the debate upon
these resolutions, Patrick Henry gave utterance to the following
words ;
"Caesar," exclaimed the orator, "had his Brutus ; Charles the
First, his Cromwell, nnd George the Third may profit by his ex-
ample."
The passage of these resolutions gave impetus to tlie cause of
American liberty and produced an alarming state of affairs among
the uiore timid and loyal inhal)itants. In Massachusetts the opj)osi-
tion took a different form, and, in the city of Boston, the populace
indulged in every act of violence that could be imagined, in the
exhibition of their dislike of the law and the law officers. The
Southwest Virginia, l7Jf6-1786. 1'<'3
ships in the harhor placed their flags at half mast, the bells
tlironghoiit the town were tolling, the ship masters who bought the
stamps were mistreated and insulted and required to deliver the
stamps to the people, who made a bonfire of them and of the law.
Meetings were held througliout the colonies, protesting against
this act of the British Parliament and asserting the inalienable
right of the American people.
On the second Tuesday in October, 1765, pursuant to a resolu-
tion adopted by the Assembly of Massachusetts, the first Couti-
nental Congress assembled at New York, "to consult as to the
circumstances of the Colonies and to consider the most proper
means of averting the diflficulties under which they labored."
Twenty-eight deputies, representing the States of Massachusetts,
Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware,
Maryland and South Carolina, composed this, the first Continental
Congress held on American soil ; Virginia, New York, North Caro-
lina and Georgia were prevented from sending delegates to this
Congress by the action of their royal Governors, by dissolving their
respective assemblies before action could be taken in the premises.
This Congress adopted a series of resolutions stating the griev-
ances of the Colonies and, in positive terms, asserting the exemp-
tion of the Colonies fro'm all taxes not imposed by their own Legis-
latures. They also addressed a petition to the House of Lords and
to the King and Commons, and on the 25th of October adjourned.
The first day of November, 1765, the date fixed for the Stamp
Act to take efi'ect, arrived, and the day in the city of Boston was
ushered in by the closing of business houses and the tolling of church
bells, and Governor Bernard and Justice Hutchinson, the advocates
of the British Parliament in Massachusetts, were hung in effigy
on Boston Neck, where the effigies were permitted tO' remain awhile,
when they were cut down and torn to pieces, to the great delight
of the people. In many places public notice was given to the
friends of TAberty to attend her funeral, and a large coffin was
prepared, upon which was written the word LIBERTY. This
coffin was attended to tlie grave by an immense concourse of people,
where, after the firing o,f minute-guns, an oration was pro-
nounced, and the word REVIVED added to the former inscription,
amidst the shouts and acclamations of the people. Throughout the
Colonies the stamp papers were forcibly taken from the stamp
174 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
officials and destroyed, and the business of the country proceeded
as if the Stamp law had never been enacted.
Upon the assembling of Parliament on the 14th day of January,
17()(), upon a motion for an address to the King, William Pitt, one
of the greatest of English statesmen, offered the following remarks
upon the state of the country;
"It is a long time, Mr. Speaker," said he, "since I have attended
in Parliament. When the resolutions were taken in this House to
tax America, I was ill in bed. If I could have endured to have
been carried in my bed, so great was the agitation of my mind for
the consequences, I would have solicited some kind hand to have
laid me down on this floor to have borne my testimony against it.
It is my opinion that this Kingdom has no right to lay a tax upon
the Colonies. At the same time, I assert the authority of this
Kingdom to be sovereign and supreme in every circumstance of
government and legislature whatever. Taxation is no part of the
governing or legislative power; the taxes are a voluntary gift and
grant of the Commons alone. The concurrence of the Peers and of
the Crown is necessary only as a form of law. This House repre-
sents the Commons of Great Britain. When in this House we
give and grant, therefore, we give and grant what is our own, btit
can we give and grant the property of the Commons of America'?
It is an absurdity in terms. There is an idea in some, that the
Colonies are virtually represented in this House. I would fain
know hy whomf . The idea of virtual representation is the most
contemptible that ever entered into the head of man; it does not
deserve a serious refutation. The Commons in America, repre-
sented in their several assembles, have invariably exercised this
constitutional right of giving and granting their own money; they
would have been slaves if they had not enjoyed it. At the same
time this Kingdom has ever professed the power of legislative and
commercial control. The Colonies acknowledge your authority in
all things, with the sole exception that you shall not take their
money out of their pockets without their consent. Here would I
draw the line; quam ultra citraque nequit consistere rectum."
This address was replied to by Mr. Grenville in a speech that
voiced the sentiments of that part of the people of England that
wished to tax the Colonies, and, in reply, William Pitt submitted
the following remarks:
Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786. 175
"Sir, a charge is brought aginst gentlemen sitting in this House,
for giving birth to sedition in America. The freedom with which
the}^ have spoken their sentiments against this unhappy act is
imputed to them as a crime, but the imputation shall not dis-
courage me. It is a liberty which I hope no gentleman will be
afraid to exercise ; it is a liberty by which the gentleman who
calumniates it might have profited. . He ought to have desisted from
his project. We are told America is obstinate, America is almost
in open rebellion. Sir, / rejoice that America has resisted; three
millions of people so dead to' all the feelings of liberty as volun-
tarily to submit to be slaves, would have been fit instruments to
make slaves of all the rest ".
I maintain that Parliment has a right to bind, to restrain Amierica.
Oiir legislative power over the Colonies is sovereign and supreme.
The honorable gentlemen tells us he i;nderstands not the difference
between internal and external taxation.; but surely there is a plain
distinction between taxation levied for the purpose of raising a
revenue and duties imposed for the regulation of commierce.
'When,' said the honorable gentleman, 'were the Colonies emanci-
pated f At what time, say T, in answer, 'were they made slaves?'
I speak from accurate knowledge when I say, that the profits to
Great Britain from the trade of the Colonies, through all its
branches, is two millions per annum. This is the fund which car-
ried 5"0u triumphantly through the war; this is the price
America pays you for her protection ; and shall a miserable financier
come with a boast that he can fetch a pepper-com into the
Exchequer at the loss of millions to the nation ? I Imow the valour
of your troops, I know the skill of your officers, I know the force
of this country ; but in such a cause your success would be hazard-
ous. America, if she fell, would fall like the strong man ; she would
embrace the pillars of the state and pull down the Constitution with
her. Is this yoiir boasted peace? not to sheathe the sword in the
scabbard, but to sheathe it in the bowels of your coimtrymen?
The Americans have been wronged, they have been driven to mad-
ness by injustice. Will you punish them for the madness you have
occasioned? No; let this country be the first to resume its
prudence and temper. I will pledge myself for the Colonies, that,
on their part, animosity and resentment will cease. The system
176 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
of policy I would earnestly exhort Great Britain tO' adopt in rela-
tion to America is happily expressed in the words of a favorite
poet :
'Be to her faults a little blind,
Be to her virtues very kind ;
Let all her ways be unconfin'd,
And clap your padlock on her mind.'
Upon the whole, I will beg leave to tell the House in a few
words what is really my opinion. It is. That the Stamp Act he
repealed, ABSOLUTELY, TOTALLY and IMMEDIATELY."
On the 23d day of February, 176G, a bill was introduced in the
House of Commons having for its purpose the repeal of the Stamp
Act, which bill was carried by a vote of 275 for, to 177 against, its
repeal. The joy of the peo])le at the result of this action of the
House of Comanons was great. The opposition to the repeal of
the Stamp Act in the House of Peers was much stronger than in
the House of Commons, and it was not till the 18th day of March,
1766, that the repeal was carried, and then by a majority of only
34. On the 19th day of March, 1766, the King appeared in the
House of Commons and gave his assent, and thereby the war
between the English Colonies and the British Government was
averted for the time being.
' In Virginia, this information was received with great joy by
all classes of people, and the Virginia House of Burgesses
voted a statue to the King. The joy that followed the repeal of
the Stamp Act was of bnt short duration. The Colonies began to
realize that, by the repeal of the Stamp Act, England had virtually
surrendered nothing, as Parliament still maintained the right to
tax the Colonists, and, by the fall of the year 1766, discontent again
pervaded the Colonies. The Virginia House oi Burgesses post-
poned the consideration of the Act providing for a statue for the
King until some succeeding session. When the new Parliament
assembled in the year 1767, they received information that the
Assembly of New York had refused to pass a bill providing for
the support of his Majesty's troops which had been stationed among
the people of that Colony. Whereupon Mr. Grenville, the leader
of the Parliamentary forces favoring the taxation of the American
colonies, introduced a bill the object of which was to restrain the
Assembly and Council of New York from passing any act, until
they had complied with the requisition of the act thus mentioned,
Southwest Virginia, 171,6-1786. 177
which bill was almost immediately passed and became a law. About
the same time a body of British troops arrived in Boston, and
Governor Bernard immediately began to provide for their support
out of the public treasury. Both of the above acts produced a great
deal of discontent in the Colonies, and in the month of June, 1767,
a bill was introduced l^y Charles Townsend in the British Parlia-
ment, imposing duties on glass, painters' colours, tea and paper,
imported into the Colonies. Also, another bill authorizing the
King to appoint a Board of Trade to reside in the Colonies. Also,
a bill establishing a Board of Admiralty in the Colonies to be paid
from the colonial revenue, but to be independent of all colonial
regulations, and another bill fixing the salaries of the Governors
and other officials of the American Colonies. These several bills
passed the House of Commons with but two dissenting votes, and
received the royal assent on the 2d day of July, 1767.
It will be observed that the system of taxation proposed by Mr.
Townsend and adopted by the British Parliament was, beyond
question, a legal exercise of the right of Parliament to regulate the
commerce of the Colonies, and this right had oftentimes, thereto-
fore, been admitted by the American Colonists, but the people of
New York and of Massachusetts were greatly irritated by the
presence of the British soldiery in their respective Colonies, and
acting upon the presumption that this action of the British Parlia-
ment was nothing more than a forerunner of other oppressive meas-
ures against the Colonies, numerous petitions and remonstrances
were addressed to the King and Parliament, but failed to accom-
plish any good result. The merchants and citizens of nearly all
the Colonies assembled in their different towns and bound them-
selves not to purchase goods of any character from the British
manufacturers, while these obnoxious laws continued in force.
The Assembly of Massachusetts Colony addressed a circular letter
to the Legislatures of the other Colonies requesting their assistance
and co-operation, which letter was responded to by all the Colonies,
expressing their willingness to stand with Massachusetts by what
had been done and expressing their readiness to co-operate in what
might further be proposed for the common securitj' and welfare of
the Colonies.
Bernard, the Eoyal Governor of Massachusetts, communicated to
Lord Hillsborough, the Secretary for the Colonies, the action of ihe
178 Southwest Virginia, 174G-178G.
Massachusetts Assembly; whereupon, his lordship directed Gover-
nor Bernard to^ require the Massachusetts Legislature, (in Ms
Majest3''s name, to rescind their action, upon the penalty O'f being
dissolved, which message the Governor immediately communicated
to the Assembly, whereupon, the Assembly voted not to rescind
their action, tlie vote being 17 yeas to 19 nays, and they declared,
"if the votes of the House are to be controlled by the direction of
a minister, we have left us but a vain semblance of liberty." The
Governor, thereupon, dissolved the House according to his threat,
and the Governors of the other Colonies dissolved their respective
Assemblies upon their refusing to rescind their action endorsing
the Massachusetts resolves.
Lord Hillsborough, upon the receipt of this information, wrote
to General Gage, the British Commander at Boston, that at least
one regiment of troop would be sent to Boston to assist in preserving
peace. Upon receipt of this information, a meeting was held by
the people of Boston, and a committee appointed to wait upon
the Governor and request him to call the Assembly together.
This committee waited upon the Governor and presented their
request, which was denied. Thereupon, it was determined to hold
a general convention in the city of Boston, on the 22d of September,
and all the towns in the province of Massachusetts were requested
to send and did send delegates to this Convention.
The Convention met at Faneuil Hall, Boston, and adopted sev-
eral resolutions and adjourned. Soon thereafter, two reginients
of troops landed in Boston and, by direction of the Governor, were
quartered in the two public houses of the city, wliich gave great
umbrage to the people and produced constant difficulties between
the citizens and the soldiers.
The Colony of Massachusetts was in open rebellion against the
British Governor and the Parliament. At a meeting of the British
Parliament in the year 1769, a measure was adopted which was
intended to be a death blow to the liberties of the Colonies. This
measure directed the Governor of Massachusetts to ascertain the
nanues of all persons guilty of treason or misprisions committed
since the 30th day of December, 1767, and transmit this informa-
tion to one of the Secretaries of State, in order that his Majesty
might issue a special commission for inquiring of, hearing and
determining the said offences within the realm of Great Britain.
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 179
Heretofore, the offending Americans had been tried by a jury of
their own countrymen, upon all the charges that were preferred
by the royal government, and, as a general rule, acquitted, but
now the British Parliament proposed to have them arrested and
transported across the seas for trial in England. The Virginia
House of Burgesses assembled a few days after the receipt of this
information and adopted a series of resolutions, "declaring their
exclusive right to tax their constituents and to petition the Sover-
eign, either separately or conjointly with the other Colonies, and
affirming that the seizing of any person residing in the said Colony,
suspected of any crime whatsoever committed therein, and sending
such persons beyond the seas to be tried was highly derogatory
to the rights of British subjects." These resolutions were pre-
sented l)e]iind dosed doors for the purpose^of preventing the royal
Governor fi'om dissolving the Assembly before their adoption. The
example of Virginia was followed by the Assemblies of the several
Colonies.
In the fall of the year 1769, Lord Hillsborough, the British
Secretary for the Colonies, addressed a circular letter to the Gov-
ernors of all the Colonies, informing them that, at the next session
of Parliament, the duty upon glass, paper and painters' colors
would be removed.
The next session of the British Parliament convened on the 9th
day of January, 1770, and, on the 22d 'day of February, the
Marquis of Rockingham introduced the subject of the repeal of
tliese onerous duties, in the following manner. He said, "That
the present unhappy condition of affairs and the universal discon-
tent of the people did not arise from any immediate temporary
cause, biit had grown upon the nation by degrees from t]^e moment
of his Majesty's accession to the throne; that a total change had
then taken place in the old system of English, government and a
new maxim adopted fatal to the liberties of the coimtry, viz., that
the royal prerogative alone was sufficient to support government,
to whatever hands the administration should be committed." "The
operation of this principle," said his lordship, "can be ti-aced
through every act of government during the present reign, in
which his Majesty's secret advisers could be supposed to have any
influence. He recommended, therefore, strongly to their lordships
to fix an early day for taking into consideration the state of the
180 Southwest Virginia, 17 46-17 S6.
country hi all its relations and dependencies, foreign, provincial
and doniestick, for we had been injured in them all. That
consideration, he trusted, would lead their Lordships to advise the
Crown, not only how to correct past errors, but how to establish
a system of government more wise, more permanent, better suited
to the genius of the people and consistent with the spirit of the
Constitution."
Before a vote was reached upon this motion, the Duke of Grafton
resigned the office of first Lord Commissioner of the Treasury and
was succeeded l)y Lord North, who remained at the head of the
administration until the close of the American Revolution.
Among the first acts of Lord North's administration was one
for the repeal of the port duties fixed by the act of 1767, with one
exception, that being the duty on tea, "which the British Ministry
desired to remain in force, as an evidence of the supremacy of the
Parliament." It was argued by tlie friends of the repeal of the
port duties, that to retain the duty on tea would simply continue
the agitation and increase the disturbance in the Colonies without
accomplishing any good results. To such arguments, Jjord North
answered, "Has the repeal of the Stamp Act taught the Americans
obedience? Has our lenity inspired them with moderation?
Can it be proper, while they deny our legal power to
tax them, to acquiesce in tlie argument of illegality and, by the
repeal of the whole law, to give up that power ? No ! the proper
time to exert oiir right to taxation is when the right is refused.
To temporize is to yield, and the autlwrity of the mother country,
if it is now unsupported, will in reality be relinquished for ever.
"A total repeal/' he continued, "cannot he thovght of till America
is PROSTRATE AT OUR FEET."
It seems peculiar that the English ministry should have been so
short sighted as to thus insult the American Colonies, at the same
time that they were making to them great concessions with the
avowed purpose of restoring the Colonies to peace and quietude.
While the British Government lost the benefit of the import duties
by the repeal of the act of 1767, still, by the retention of the duty
on tea, the cause of the discontent in the Colonies remained. The
insult offered to the Colonists by Lord North in his speech, and the
presence of the King's troops in the province of Massachusetts and
New Yo7-k, kept up the agitation in the Colonies, producing mob-
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 181
violence at many places. In the city of Boston a difficulty occurred
between one of the King's soldiers and a citizen of the town, which
resulted in the defeat of the soldier. He obtaining the assistance
of a few of his comrades, the contest between the citizens and the
soldiers became general, and the citizens, assembling in great
numbers, compelled Governor Hutchinson to remove the soldiers
immediately from the town. Similar difficulties occurred in New
York and in Ehode Island. Thus matters continued until the
12th of March, 1773, when Dabney Carr, a member of the House
of Burgesses of Virginia, introduced the following resolutions in
the House of Burgesses; which resolutions were adopted without a
dissenting voice.
"Whereas the minds of his Majesty's faithful subjects in this
Colony have been much disturbed by various rumours and reports
of proceedings, tending to deprive them of their ancient legal and
constitutional rights ;
^And whereas the affairs of this Colony are frequently con-
nected with those of Great Britain, as well as the neighboring
Colonies, which renders a communication of sentiment necessary.
In order, therefore, to remove the uneasiness and to quiet tho
minds of the people, as well as for the other good purposes above
mentioned,
"Be it resolved, that a standing committee of correspondence
and inquiry be appointed, to consist of eleven persons, to-wit:
the honorable Peyton Eandolph, esquire, Eobept C. Nicholas,
Eichard Bland, Eichard H. Lee, Benjamin Harrison, Edmund
Pendleton, Patrick Henry, Dudley Digges, Dabney Carr, Archibald
Cary and Thomas Jefferson, esquires, any six of whom to be a
committee, whose business it shall be to obtain the most early and
authentic intelligence of all such acts and resolutions of the British
Parliament or proceedings of administration as may relate to, or
affect the British Colonies in America; and to keep up and main-
tain a correspondence and communication with our sister Colonies,
respecting these important considerations ; and the result of such
their proceedings, from time to time to lay before this House.
'Resolved, That it be an instruction to the said committee that
they do, without delay, inform themselves particularly of the
principles and authority on which was constituted a court of
enquiry, said to have been lately held in Ehode Island, with
183 Southwest Virgima, 111^6-1786.
powers to transport persons accused of offences committed in
iVmerica to places beyond the seas to be tried.
"Resolved, That the Speaker of this House do transmit to the
Speakers of the different Assemblies of the British Colonies on the
Continent, copies of the said resolutions, and desire that they will
lay them before their respective Assemblies, and request them to
appoint some person or persons of their respective bodies tO' com-
municate, from time to time, with the said committee."
The retention of the duty on tea and the action of the different
Colonies in entering into an agreement neither to buy nor to sell,
nor pay any duty upon teas imported into the Colonies, had been
so rigidly observed that the East India Company suffered great
inconvenience from the accumulation of their stock and the refusal
of the American Colonists to purchase; and, to remedy this state
of affairs, this company proposed to the British Parliament to pay
double the amount of tlie import duties on tea if the Parliament
would repeal the duties, but the object of the Parliament not being
the collection of a revenue, but the subjection of the American
Colonies, the offer of the East India Company remained unac-
cepted, and the oppression of the American Colonies continued
until it was evident that the American people had determined to be
free. After some time an act was passed by the British Parliament
allovidng the East India Company to export their teas to America
free of duty, after which, large quantities of tea were shipped by
the company to Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Charleston.
As soon as the Americans heard of the repeal of the duty on tea
and the shipments made by the East Indian Company, they deter-
mined that the tea should never be disposed of in America. When
the ships bearing this tea arrived at the American ports, they were
compelled to return immediately without unloading their cargo.
In the city of Boston a scene of great disorder prevailed. The
captain of the vessel carrying the tea made an application to the
Governor for the papers necessary to enable him to return to
England without unloading, which request the Governor positively
refused to comply with. Of this action the people were informed,
and, thereupon, a number, disguising themselves as Mohawk
Indians, boarded the ship, took out three hundred and forty-two
chests of tea and emptied their contents into the water. It was
thought that this occurrence would precipitate the war between the
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 183
Colonies and England, but such was not the case. Upon the receipt
of the news of the destruction of the tea, Lord North introduced
a bill for the closing of the port of Boston. The Constitution and
('barter of the province of Massachusetts were taken out of the
hands of the people and placed in the hands of the king, and all
the officers of the Colony were made dependent upon the king.
A bill was also passed levying a fine upon the city of Boston to
compensate the East India Company for the tea destroyed, and
another law was enacted providing that any of the king-'s officers,
charged with the commission of murder in the execution of their
duties in the Colonies, should be brought to England for trial. All
of the foregoing bills had been passed and received the royal assent
by the 20th day of May, 1774.
The consideration of these measures by the House of Commons
produced a long and heated debate, during which Colonel Barre,
who had on a previous occasion ably defended the Colonies, con-
cluded an able and patriotic speech in opposition to these measures
in these words : "Yon have changed your ground. You are becom-
ing the aggressors, and offering the last of human outrages to the
jjpople of America, by subjecting them, in effect, to military execu-
tion. Instead of sending them the olive branch, you have sent them
the naked sword. By the olive branch I mean a repeal of all the
late laivs, fruitless to you and oppressive to them. Ask their aid
in a constitutional manner, and they will give it to the utmost of
their ability. They never yet- refused it, when properly required.
Your journals bear the recorded acknowledgments of the zeal with
which they have contributed to the general necessities of the State.
What madness is it that prompts you to attempt obtaining that hy
force, which you may more certainly procure by requisition. They
may he flattered into anything, but they are too much like your-
selves to he driven. Have some indulgence for your own likeness,
respect their sturdy English virtue, retract your odious exertions
of authority, and remember that the first step towards making them
contribute to your wants is to reconcile them to your government."
At the same time William Pitt, now Lord Chatham, gave the
House of Lords his views upon the bills proposed and the condition
of American affairs, in the following words:
"If, my Lords, we take a transient view of those motives which
induced the ancestors of our fellow subjects in America to leave
184 Southwest Virginia, 17JiG-178G.
tlioir native country, to encounter the innumerable diflSculties of the
unexplored regions of the western world, our astonishment at the
present conduct of their descendants will naturally subside. There
was no corner of the globe to which they would not have fled, rather
than submit to the slavish and tyrannical spirit which prevailed
at that period in their native country ; and viewing them in their
original forlorn and now flourishing state, they may be cited as
illustrious instances to instruct the world what great exertions man-
kind will naturally make, when left to the free exercise ol their
own powers. Notwithstanding my intention to give my hearty
negative to the question now before you, I condemn, my Lords, in
the severest manner, the turbulent and unwarrantable conduct of
of the Americans, in some instances, particularly in the late riots
at Boston, but, my Lords, the mode which has been pursued to
bring them back to a sense ol their duty is so diametrically oppo-
site to every principle of sound policy, as to excite my utmost
astonishment. You have involved the guilty and the innocent in
one common punisliment, and avenge the crime of a few lawless
depredators upon the whole body of the inhabitants. My Lords,
the different provinces of America, in the excess of their gratitude
for the repeal of the Stamp Act. seemed to vie with each otlier in
the expressions of loyalty and duty; but the moment they per-
ceived that your intention to tax them was renewed, under a pre-
tense of serving the East India Company, their resentment got tlie
ascendant of their moderation and hurried them into actions which
their cool reason would abhor. But, my Lords, from the whole
complexion of the late proceedings, I cannot but incline to think,
that the administration has purposely irritated them into these
violent acts, in order to gratify their own malice and revenge.
What else could induce them to dress Taxation, the Father of
American Sedition, in the robes of an East India Director, but to
break in upon that mutual peace and harmony which then so hap-
pily subsisted between the Colonies and the mother county. My
Lords, it has always been my fixed and unalterable opinion, and I
will carry it with me to the grave, that this country had no right
under heaven to tax America. It is contrary tO' all the principles
of justice and civil policy; it is contrary to that essential, unalter-
able right in nature, ingrafted into the British Constitution as a
fundamental law, that what a man has honestly acquired is abso-
Southwest Virginia, 1740-1786. 185
lutely his own, which he may freely give, but which cannot be
taken away from him without his consent. Pass then, my Lords,
instead of these harsh and severe edicts, an amnesty over their
errours; by mea.sures of lenity and affection allure them to their
duty; act the pavt of a generous, forgiving parent. A period may
arrive, when this parent may stand in need of every assistance she
can receive from a grateful and affectionate offspring. The welfare
of this country, my Lords, has ever been my greatest joy, and,
under all the vicissitudes of my life, ha,s afforded me the most
pleasing consolation. Should the all-disposing hand of Providence
prevent me from contributing my poor and feeble aid in the day
of her distress, my prayers shall be ever for her prosperity ; "Length
of days be in her right hand, and in her left hand riches and honor !
May her ways be ways of pleasantness, and all her paths be peace !"
The Legislature of Virginia was in session when the Boston
Port Bill arrived, and their sense of it was imauediately expressed
by the following order : "This House, being deeply impressed with
apprehension of the great dangers to be derived to British America
from the hostile invasion of the city of Boston, in our sister Colony
of Massachusetts Bay, whose commerce and harbour are, on the
1st day of June next, to be stopped by an armed force, deem it
highly necessary that the said 1st day of June next be set apart l)y
the members of this House as a day of fasting, humiliation and
prayer, devoutly to implore the divine interposition for averting the
heavy calamity which threatens destruction to our civil rights and
the evils of civil war; to give us one heart and one mind, firmly to
oppose, by all just and proper means, every injury to American
rights; and that the minds of his Majesty and Parliament may be
inspired from above with wisdom, moderation and justice, to
remove from the loyal people of America all cause of danger, from
a continued pursuit of measures pregnant with their ruin.
^^Ordered, therefore. That the members of this House do attend
at their places at the hour of ten in the forenoon, on the said 1st day
of June next, in order to proceed with the Speaker and the Mace, to
the church in this city, for the purposes aforesaid ; and that the
reverend Mr. Price be appointed to read prayers and to preach a
sermon suitable to the occasion."
Lord Dunmore, the Governor of the Virginia Colony at that
time, immediately upon the receipt of the information as to the
186 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
action taken by the Virginia House of Burgesses, dissolved tlie
House. But the patriotic Virginians were not to be thus deprived
ol their right to speak their sentiments; for on the following day,
eighty-nine members formed an association and adopted the fol-
lowing resolutions :
"We, his Majesty's most duiifid and loyal suhjects, the late repre-
sentatives of the good people of this Colony, having been deprived,
by the sudden interposition of the executive part of this government,
from giving our countrymen the advice we wished to convey to
them in a legislative capacity, find ourselves under the hard neces-
sity of adopting this, tlie only method we have left, of pointing out
to our countrymen, such measures as, in our opinion, are best
fitted to secure our dear rights and liberty from destruction by the
heavy hand of power now lifted against JSTorth America. With
much grief we find that our dutiful applications to Great Britain
for the security of our just, ancient and constitutional rights, have
not only been disregarded, but that a determined system is formed
and pursued for reducing the inhabitants of British America to
slavery, by subjecting them to the payment of taxes imposed with-
out the consent of the people or their representatives; and that,
in pursuit of this system, we find an Act of the British Parliament,
lately passed, for stopping the harbour and the commerce of the
town of Boston, in our sister Colony of Massachusetts Bay, until
the people there submit to the payment of such unconstitutional
taxes; and which Act most violently and arbitrarily deprives them
of their property, in Avharves "erected by private persons, at their
own great and proper expense, which Act is, in our opinion, a most
dangerous attempt to destroy the constitutional liberty and rights
of all North America. It is further our opinion, that as tea, on its
importation to America, is charged with a duty imposed by Par-
liament for the purpose of raising a revenue without the consent
oi the people, it ought not to be used by any person who wishes well
to the constitutional rights and liberties of British America. And
whereas, the India Company have ungenerously attempted to ruin
America, by sending many ships loaded with tea into the Colonies,
thereby intending to fix a pi-ecedent in favour of arbitrary taxation,
we deem it highly proper, and do accordingly recommend it strongly
to our countrymen, not to purchase or use any kind of East India
commodity whatsoever, except salt-petre and spices, until the griev-
Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786. 187
ances of America are redressed. We are further clearly of opinion,
that an attack made upon one of onr sister Colonies, tO' compel
submission to arbitrary taxes, is an attack mad© on all British
America, and threatents ruin to the rights of all, unless the united
wisdom of the whole he applied. And for this purpose it is recom-
mended to the coanmittee of correspondence, that they communi-
cate with their several corresponding committees, on the expedi-
ency of appointing deputies from the several Colonies of British
America, to meet in General Congress, at such a place annually as
shall be thought most convenient; there to deliberate on those gen-
eral measures which the united interest of America may, from time
to timCy- require.
"A tender regard for the interest of our fellow-subjects, the
merchants and manufacturers of Great Britain, prevents us from
going further at this time ; most earnestly hoping that the un-
constitutional principle of taxing the Colonies without their con-
sent will not be persisted in, thereby to compel us against our will,
to avoid all commercial intercourse with Great Britain. Wishing
them and our people free and happy, we are their affectionate
friends, the late representatives of Virginia."
This association was formed on the 27th day of May, 1774, and
Stephen Trigg and William Christian, the representatives O'f Fin-
castle county, in the Virginia House of Burgesses, were members
of this association.
Virginia had not suffered from the acts of the British. Parlia-
ment as had the colonies of New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode
Island, but her statesmen of those days were actuated by princi-
ples that they loved and cherished, and, with a political wisdom
which should be the admiration of all the citizens of Virginia,
they were always ready and willing to resist any encroachment
upon those principles, whether the encroachments were made in
their own home or in the sister colonies.
The 1st day of June, 1774, was observed in most of the colo-
nies as a day of fasting and prayer, and in Virginia all business
was suspended, and the citizens bore a dejected aspect, but were
contemplating a brighter day, when their sorrow would be turned
to joy.
On the 17th day of June, 1774, the Legislature of the Massa-
chusetts Colony adopted a resolution calling a Congress of the rep-
188 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
resentatives of the colonies at Philadelphia on the 5th day of
September, 1774. The royal Governor of Massachusetts imme-
diately dissolved the Legislature as a punishment.
In Virginia the representatives of the several counties met at
Williamsburg on August 1, 1774, and adopted the following reso-
lutions, which fitly expressed the sentiments of the people of Vir-
ginia :
"The unhappy disputes between Great Britain and her Ameri-
can colonies, which began about the third year of the reign of his
present Majesty and since continually increasing, have proceeded
to lengths so dangerous and alarming as to excite just apprehen-
sions in the minds of his Majesty's faithful subjects of the Colony
that they are in danger of being deprived of their natural, an-
cient constitutional and chartered rights, and have cjompelled
them to take the same into their most serious consideration; and
being deprived of their usual and accustomed mode of making
known their grievances, have appointed us, their represen-
tatives, to consider what is proper to be done in this dangerous
crisis of American affairs. It being our opinion, that the united
wisdom of North America should be collected in a general Con-
gress of all the Colonies, we have appointed the following gen-
tlemen as deputies to represent this Colony in the said Congress,
to be held at Philadelphia, on the first Monday in September
next, viz., Peyton Eandolph, Eichard Henry Lee, George Wash-
ington, Patrick Henry, Eichard Bland, Benjamin Harrison and
Edmund Pendleton. — and that they may be the better informed
of our sentiments touching the conduct we wish them to observe
on this important occasion, we desire that they Avill express, in the
first place, our faith and our allegiance to his Majesty King George
the third, our lawful and rightful sovereign; and that we are de-
termined, with our lives and fortunes, to support him in the le-
gal exercise of all his just rights and prerogatives. And, however,
misrepresented, we sincerely approve of a constitutional connexion
with Great Britain, and wish most ardently a return of that inter-
course O'f affection and commercial connexion that formerly united
both countries; which can only be effected by a removal of those
causes of discontent which have of late unhappily divided us.
"It cannot admit of a doubt that British subjects in America
are entitled to the same rights and privileges as their fellow sub-
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 189
jects possess in Britain, and therefore tliat the power as-
sumed by the British Parliament to bind America by their statutes,
in all cases whatsoever, is unconstitutional and the source of these
unhappy differences.
"The end of government would be defeated by the British Par-
liament exercising a power over the lives, the property and the
liberty of American subjects, who are not and, from their local
circumstances, cannot be, there represented. Of this nature we
consider the several Acts of Parliament for raising a revenue in
America, for extending the jurisdiction of the courts of Admiralty,
for seizing American subjects and transporting them to Britain
to be tried for crimes committed in America, and the several late
oppressive Acts respecting the town of Boston and Province of
Massachusetts Bay.
"The original constitution of the American Colonies possessing
their assemblies with the sole right of directing their internal
policy, it is absolutely destructive to the end of their institution
that their legislatures should be suspended, or prevented by hasty
dissolutions, from exercising their legislative powers.
"Wanting the protection of Britain, we have long acquiesced in
their Acts of navigation, restrictive of our commerce, which we
consider as an ample recompense for such protection, but as those
Acts derive their efficacy from that foundation alone, we have
reason to expect they will be restrained, so as to produce the rea-
sonable purposes of Britain and not be injurious to us.
"To obtain redress of these grievances, without which the peo-
ple of America can neither be safe, free, nor happy, they are will-
ing to undergo the great inconvenience that will be derived to them
from stopping all imports whatsoever from Great Britain after
the first day of November next, and also to cease exporting
any commodity whatsoever to the same place, after the 10th day
of August, 1775. The earnest desire we have to make as quick and
full payment as possible of our debts to Great Britain, and to avoid
the heavy injury that would arise tO' this country from an earlier
adoption of the non-importation plan, after the people have al-
ready applied so much of their labor to the perfecting of the pres-
ent crop, by which means they have been prevented from pursuing
other methods of clothing and supporting their families, has ren-
dered it necessary to restrain you in this article of non-exporta-
190 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
tion ; but it is our desire that you cordially co-operate with our
sister Colonies in general Congress, in such other just and proper
methods, as they, or the majority, shall deem necessary for the
accomplishment of these valuable ends. *?
"The proclamation issued by General Gage, in tlie government of
the Province of Massachusetts Bay, declaring it treason for the
inhabitants of that Province to assemble themselves to consider O'f
their grievances and to form associations for their common conduct
on the occasion, and requiring the civil magistrates and officers to
apprehend all such persons to be tried for their supposed offences,
is the most alarming process that ever appeared in a British Gov-
ernment; the said General Gage has thereby assumed and taken
upon himself powers denied by the constitution to our legal Sover-
eign. He not having condescended to disclose by what authority
he exercises such extensive and unlieard of powers, we are at a
loss to determine whether he intends to justify himself as the rep-
representative of the King, or as the Commander in Chief of his
Majesty's forces in America. If he considers himself as acting
in the character of his Majesty's representative, we would remind
him that the statute 20th, Edward III., has expressed and defined
all treasonable O'ffences, and that the Legislature of Great Britain
hath declared that no offence shall be construed to be treason but
such as is pointed out by that statute; and that this was done to
taike out of the hands of tyrannical Kings, and of weak and wicked
Ministers, that deadly weapon which constructive treason had
furnished them with, and which had drawn the blood of the best
and honestest men in the kingdom, and that the King of Great
Britain hath no right by his proclamation to subject his people to
imprisonment, pains, and penalties.
"Tliat if the said General Gage conceives he is empowered to
act in this manner, as the Commander in Chief of his Majesty's
forces in America, this odioais and illegal proclamation must be
considered as a plain and full declaration that this despotick Vice-
roy will be bound by no law, nor regard the constitutional rights
of his Majesty's subjects, wherever they interfere with the plans
he has formed for oppressing the good people of the Massachusetts
Bay; and therefore that the executing, or attempting to execute
such proclamation, will justify resistance and reprisal."
All of the American colonies, with the exception of Georgia,
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 191
joined iu the common cause and sent delegates to the Philadel-
phia Congress.
The second Continental Congress of the American colonies as-
sembled in Philadelphia on September 5, 1774, fifty-two dele-
gates from twelve colonies present. This Congress was organized
by the election of the following officers :
President, Peyton Eandolph, of Virginia.
Secretary, Charles Thompson, of Pennsylvania.
Patrick Henry, of Virginia, was the first member of this Con-
gress to address the chair upon the issues which had brought them
together. This Congress of able men and noble patriots occupied
more than a month's time in serious deliberation before anything
of importance was done. On the 8th of October, 1774 (two days
before the battle at Point Pleasant) they adopted the following
resolutions :
"Resolved, That this Congress do approve of the opposition
MADE BY THE inhabitants of the Massachusetts Bay to the exe-
cution of the late Acts of Parliament; and if the same shall be at-
tempted to be carried into execution by force, in such case all
America ought to support them in their opposition.
"Resolved, That it is the opinion of this body, that the removal
of the people of Boston into the country would be not only ex-
tremely difficult in the execution, but so important in its conse-
quences as to require the utmost deliberation before it is adopted.
But in case the provincial meeting of that Colony shall judge it
absolutely necessary, it is the opinion of this Congress, that all
America ought to contribute towards recompensing them for the
injury they may thereby sustain, and it will be recommended ac-
cordingly.
"Resolved, That this Congress do recommend to the inhabitants
of the Colony of Massachusetts Bay to submit to a suspension of
the administration of justice, when it cannot be procured in a le-
gal and peaceable manner, under the rules of the Charter and the
laws founded thereon, until the effects of onr application for a re-
peal of the Acts, by which their Charter rights are infringed, are
known.
"Resolved, unanimously. That every person or persons whoso-
ever, who shall take, accept, or act under any commission or au-
thority in any wise derived from the Act passed in the late ses-
192 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
sion of Parliament, changing the form of Government and vio-
lating the charter of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, ought to
be held in detestation and abhorrence by all good men and con-
sidered as the wicked tools of that despotism which is preparing to
destroy tliose rights which God, nature and compact have given
to America."
On the 14th, Congress agreed upon the following preamble and
resolutions :
"Whereas, since the close . of the last war, the British Parlia-
ment, claiming a power of right to bind the people of America by
statute, in all cases whatsoever, hath in some Acts expressly im-
posed taxes on them, and on other various pretences, but in fact for
the purpose of raising a revenue, hath imposed rates and duties
payable in these Colonies, established a board of commissioners
with unconstitutional powers and extended the jurisdiction of
Courts of Admiralty, not only for collecting the said duties, but
for the trial of causes merely arising within the body of a county.
And whereas, in consequence of other statutes, judges, who before
held only estates at will in their offices, have been made dependent
on the CroAvn alone for their salaries, and standing armies kept in
time of peace. And it has lately been resolved in Parliament, that
by force of a statute made in the 35th Henry VIII, colonists may
be transported to England and tried there upon accusations for
treasons and misprisions, or concealment of treasons, committed in
the Colonies; and, by a late statute, such trials have been directed
in cases therein mentioned.
"And whereas, in the late session of Parliament, three statutes
were made, one entitled 'an Act to discontinue in siich manner
and for such time as are therein mentioned, the landing and dis-
charging, lading or shipping of goods, wares and merchandise, at
the town and within the harbour of Boston, in the Province of
Massachusetts Bay, in North America,' another entitled 'an Act
for the better regulating the government of the Province of Massa-
chiisetts Bay, in New England,' and another entitled 'an Act for
the impartial administration of justice, in the cases of persons
questioned for any act done by them in the execution of the law,
or for the suppression of riots and tumults, in the Province of
Massachusetts Bay, in New England,' and another statute was
then made 'for making more effectual provision for the govern-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 193
ment of the Province of Quebec, &c./ all of which statutes are
impolitick, unjust and cruel as well as unconstitutional, and miost
dangerous and destructive of American rights.
"And whereas, Assemblies have been frequently dissolved, con-
trary to the rights of the people, when they attempted to deliberate
on grievances, and their dutiful, humble, loyal, and reasonable pe-
titions to tlie cro'wn for redress have been repeatedly treated with
contempt by his Majesty's Ministers of State.
"The good people of the several colonies of New Hampshire,
Massachusetts Bay, Ehode Island and Providence Plantations,
Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New Castle,
Kent and Sussex on Delaware, Maryland and Virginia, North
Carolina and South Carolina, justly alarmed at these arbitrary
proceedings of Parliament and the Administration, have severally
elected, constituted and ajjpointed deputies, to meet and sit in
general Congress in the City of Philadelphia, in order to obtain
such establishment as tliat their religion, laws and liberties may
not be subverted : Whereupon, the deputies so appointed being now
assembled in a full and free representation of these Colonies, tak-
ing into their most serious consideration the best means of attain-
ing the ends aforesaid, do in the first place, as Englishmen, their
ancestors, in like cases have usually done, for asserting and vindi-
cating their rights and liberties, DECLARE ;
"That the inhabitants of the English Colonies in North America,
by the immutable laws of nature, the principles of the English
Constitution and the several charters of compacts, have the follow-
ing RIGHTS.
"Resolved, nemine contradicenie, 1st. That they are entitled to
life, liberty and property; and they have never ceded to any
foreign power whatever, a right to dispose of either without their
consent.
"Resolved, 71. c. 3nd. That our ancestors, who first settled these
Colonies, were at the time of their emigration from the mother
country, entitled to all the rights, liberties and immunities of free
and natural born subjects within the realms of England.
"Resolved, n. c. 3rd. That by such emigration they by no means
forfeited, surrendered, or lost any of those rights, but that they
.were, and their descendants now are, entitled to tlie exercise and
194 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
enjoyment of all sncli of them, as their local and other circum-
stances enable them to exercise and enjoy.
"Resolved, n. c. 4. That the foundation of English liberty and
all free government is a right in the people to participate in their
legislative coimcil ; and as the ' English Colonists are not repre-
sented, and from their local and other circumstances cannot pro-
]ierly be represented in the British Parliament, they are entitled
to a free and exclusive power of legislation in their several Pro-
vincial Ijegislatures, where their right of representation alone can
be pr(>served, in all cases of taxation and internal policy, subject
only to the negative of their Sovereign, in such manner as has
heretofore been accustomed ; but from the necessity of the case
and a regard to the mutual interests of both countries, we cheer-
fully consent to the operation of such acts of the British Parlia-
ment as are bona fide, restrained to the regulation of our external
commerce, for the purpose of securing the commercial advantages
of the whole empire to the mother country, and the commercial
])enefits of its respective members, excluding every idea of taxation,
internal or external, for raising a revenue on the subjects in
America, without their consent.
"Eesolved, n. c. 5. That the respective Colonies are entitled to
the common law of England, and more especially to the great and
inestimable privilege of being tried by their peers of the vicinage
according to the course ol that law.
"Resolved, n. c. 6. That they are entitled to the benefit of such
of the English statutes as existed at the time of their colonization,
and which they have, by experience, respectively found to be appli-
cable to their several local and other circumstances.
"Resolved, n. r. 7. That these, his Majesty's Colonies, are like-
wise entitled to all tlie immunities and privileges granted and con-
firmed to them by royal charters, or secured by their several codes
of Provincial laws.
"Resolved, 7i. c. 8. That they have a right peacably to assemble,
consider of their grievances, and petition the King; and that all
prosecutions, prohibitory proclamations, and commitments for the
same are illegal.
"Resolved, n. c. 9. That the keeping a standing army in any
of these Colonies in times of peace, without the consent of the
Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-17S0. 195
Tjegislaturo of that Colony in which snch army is kept, is against
tlie law.
"Eesolved, n. c. 10. It is indispensahly necessary to good gov-
ernment, and rendered essential l)y the English constitution, that
the constituent branches of the Tjegislature be independent of each
other; that, therefore, the exercise of legislative power in several
Colonies by a Council a})pointed, during pleasure, by the Crown
is unconstitutional, dangerous and destructive of the freedom of
American legislation.
All and each of which the aforesaid deputies in behalf of them-
selves and their constituents do claim, demand, and insist upon,
as their indubitable rights and liberties; which cannot be legally
taken from them, altered or abridged by any power whatsoever,
without their own consent, by their representatives in their several
Provincial Legislatures."
And upon the 30th day of October, ITT-i, they agreed upon the fol-
lowing articles of association, to which each member present sub-
scribed his name.
"First, That from and after the first day of December next,
we will not import into British America from Great Britain and
Ireland, any goods, wares, or merchandize whatsoever, or from any
other place, any such goods, wares or marchandise, as shall have
been exported from Great Britain or Ireland, nor will we, after that
day import any East India tea from any part of the world; nor any
molasses, syrups, paneles, coffee or pimento, from the British
plantations, or from Dominica ; nor wines from Madeira, or the
Western Islands ; nor foreign indigo.
"Second, That we will neither import, nor purchase any slave
imported after the first day of Deceml)er next; after which time
we will wholly discontinue the slave trade, and will neither be con-
cerned in it ourselves nor will we hire our vessels, nor sell our com-
modities or manufactures to those who are concerned in it.
"Third, As a non-consum])tion agreement strictly adhered to
will 1)0 an effectual security for the observation of non-importa-
tion, we, as above, solemnly agree and associate, that, from this
day, we will not purchase or use any tea imported on account of
the East India Company, or any on which a duty hath been or
sliall he paid, and from and after the first day of March next, we
will not purchase or use any East India tea whatever, nor will we.
19G Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
nor shall any person for or imdor us, purchase or use, any of those
goods, wares or merchandize we have agreed not to import, which
we shall know or have cause to suspect, were imported after the
first day of December, except such as come under the rules and
directions of the tenth article hereinafter mentioned.
"Fourth, The earnest desire we have not to injure our fellow-
subjects in Great Britain, Ireland or the West Indies, induces us
to suspend non-exportation, until the tenth day of September
1775, at which time, if the said Acts and parts of Acts of the
British Parliament, hereinafter mentioned, are not repealed, we
will not, directly or indirectly, export any merchandize or com-
modity whatsoever, to Great Britain, Ireland or the West Indies,
except via Europe.
"Fifth, Such as are merchants and use the British and Irish
trade, will give orders, as soon as possible, to their factors, agents
and correspondents in Great Britain and Ireland, not to ship any
goods to them, on any pretence whatever, as they cannot be received
in America; and if any merchant residing in Great Britain or
Ireland shall, directly or indirectly, ship any goods, wares or mer-
chandize, for America, in order to break the said non-importation
agreement, or in any manner contravene the same, on such
unworthy conduct being well attested, it ought to be made publick ;
a7id on the same being so done, we will not from thenceforth have
any commercial connexion with such merchant.
"Sixth, That such as are owners of vessels will give positive
orders to their captains, or masters, not to receive on board their
vessels any goods prohibited by the said non-importation agree-
ment, on pain of immediate dismission from their service.
"Seventh, We will use our utmost endeavors to improve the
breed of sheep and increase their number to the greatest extent;
and to that end we will kill them as sparingly as may be, especially
those of the most profitable kind; nor will we export any to the
West Indies or elsewhere ; and those of us who are or may become
overstocked with, or can conveniently spare any sheep, will dispose
of them to our neighbors, especially to the poorer sort, on moderate
terms.
"Eighth, That we will in our several stations encourage fru-
gality, economy and industry, and promote agriculture, arts and
the manufactures of this country, especially that of wool, and will
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 197
discountenance and discourage every species of extravagance and
dissipation, especially all horse-racing, and all kinds of gaming,
cock-fighting, exhibitions of shows, plays and other expensive diver-
sions and entertainments. iVnd on the death of any relation oi
friend, none of us, or any of our families, will go into any
further mourning dress than a black crape or ribbon on the arm
or hat for the gentleman, and a black ribbon or necklace for the
ladies, and we will discontinue the giving of gloves and scarfs at
funerals.
"Ninth, That such as are vendors of goods or merchandize will
not take advantage of the scarcity of goods that may be occasioned
by this association, but will sell the same at the rates we have
been respectively accustomed to do, for twelve months last past.
And if any vendor of goods or merchandize shall sell such goods
on higher terms, or shall in any manner, or by any device what-
soever, violate or depart from this agreement, no person ought, nor
will any of us deal with any such person, or his, or her factor or
agent at any time thereafter for any commodity whatever.
"Tenth, In case any merchant, trader, or other persons shall
import any goods or merchandize, after the first day of December,
and before the first day of February next, the same ought, forth-
with, at the election of the owner, to be either reshipped or deliv-
ered up to the committee of the county or town wherein they shall
be imported, to be stored at the risk of the importer, until the non-
importation agreement shall cease, or be sold under direction of
the committee aforesaid ; and in the last mentioned case, the owner
or owners of such goods shall be reimbursed out of the sales the
first cost and charges, the profit, if any, to be applied towards the
relieving and employing such poor inhabitants of the town of
Boston as are immediately sufferers by the Boston Port Bill; and
a particular account of all goods so returned, stored, or sold, to be
inserted in the publick papers; and if any goods or merchandizes
shall be imported after the said fi.rst day of February, the same ought
forthwith, to be sent back again, without breaking any of the
packages thereof.
"Eleventh, That a committee be chosen in every county, city,
and town, by those who are qualified to vote for representatives in
Legislature, whose business it shall be, attentively to observe the
conduct of all persons touching the association; and when it shall
198 Southtvest Virginia. 17J,(]-17S(i.
1)1* made to aj)})C'ai" to the satisfaction of a majority of such com-
mittee, that any person within the limits of their appointment
has violated this association, tliat such majority do fortlnvitli cause
tl)e truth of the case to he ])uhlishe(! in the (iazette, to the end that
all such t'ocs to the rights of British Auiei'ica may he ])ul)licklv
known and universally contemned as the enemies of Amei-ican
liherty; and thenceforth we will res])ectively hreak olf all dealings
with him or her.
"Twelfth, That the Committee of Correspondenci' in the i'esj)ec-
tive Colonies do frequently inspect the entries of their custom
houses, and inform each other from time to time, of the true state
thereof, and of every other material circumstance that may occur
relative to this association.
"Thirteenth, That all manufactures of this country he sold at
reasonable prices, so that no undue advantages W taken of a future
scarcity of goods.
"Fourteenth, And we do' further agree and resolve, that we will
have no trade, commerce, dealings or intercourse whateM'i- with
any Colony or Province in North America, which shall not accede
to, or which shall hereafter violate this association, hut will hold
them as unworthy of the rights of freemen and as inimical to the
liberties of their country.
"And we do solemnly bind ourselves and our constituents, under
the ties aforesaid, to adhere to this association until such parts
of the several Acts of Parliament passed since the close of the last
war as imposed or continue diities on tea, wine, molasses, syrups,
paneles, coffee, sugar, pimento, indigo, foreign ]")aper. glass and
painters' colors imported into America, and extend the powers
of the Admiraltv courts beyond their ancient limits, deprive the
American subjects of trial by jury, authorize the judge's C(>rtificate
to indemnify the prosecutor fi-om damages, that he might other-
wise be liable to, from a trial by his peers, require oppressive secu-
rity from a claimant of ships or goods seized before he shall be
allowed to defend his property, are repealed. And until that part
of the Act of the 13 Geo. 3, ch. 24. entitled 'an Act for the better
securing his Majesty's dock-yards, magazines, ships, ammunition
and stores,' by which any persons charged with committing any
of tlie offences therein described, in America, may be tried in any
shire or county within the realm, is repealed — and until the four
Southwest Virginia, 171,6-1786. 199
Acts 2:)assed in the last, session of Parliament, viz., that for stopping
tlie i)ort and blocking np the harbonr of Boston — that for alter-
ing the Charter and Government of the Massachnsetts Bay — and
that which is entitled, ''An Act for the better administration of
justice, &c." — and that for "extending the limits of Quebec, &c.,"
ai'e rejx^aled. And we recommend it to the Provincial Conven-
tions, and to the committee in tlie respective Colonies, to establish
such furtlier regulations as they may think proper, for carrying into
execution this association."
After the adoption of the foregoing resolutions and articles of
association, the Congress drew up a petition to the king, a memo-
rial tO' tlie people of England and an address to the people of the
C^olonies, and another to the French Colonists of Quebec, Georgia
and Nova Scotia. Tliis Congress adjourned on the 26th day of
October, 1774, after having decided to hold another Congress at the
same place on the lOth day of May, 1775, if their present grievances
continued. The proceedings of this Congress have enlisted the
admiration of the world for more than one hundred and twenty-
five years, and the work of the fifty-two men composing this Con-
gress will live while a Eepul)lican form of Government and free
institutions exist.
After the adjournment of this Congress, the Colonies were in
that condition which precedes the coming of a storm,. The people
were willing to foi-give and forget, provided their petitions were
listened to and their wrongs corrected ; otherwise they were ready
to give their lives and property in defence of their liberty.
It was now time for the English statesmen to recognize, in the
resistance of the Colonies, that spirit of freedom which has ever
marked the actions of the Anglo-Saxon race.
At a meeting of the British Parliament on the 30th day of
January, 1775, Lord Dartmouth, Secretary of State for the Colo-
nies, laid before the House of Peers all the papers relative to the
American Colonies. As soon as all papers were read, William Pitt,
the undying friend ot the American Colonies, arose and moved that
an address be presented to the King, requesting him to direct Gen-
eral Gage to move his Majesty's forces from the town of Boston.
He said : "America could not be reconciled, she ought not to be
reconciled to this country, till the troops of Britain are removed
from the Continent. Besistance to your acts was necessary, and
200 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
therefore ju^t; and your vain declarations of the omnipotence of
Parliament, and your imperious doctrines of the necessity of sub-
mission, will be equally impotent to convince or enslave America.
You may, no doubt, destroy their cities, you may cut them off
from the superfluities, perhaps the conveniences, of life; but
my Lords, they will still despise your power, for they have yet
I'emaining their woods and their liberty. He said that the spirit
which now animates America was the same that led to the revolu-
tion in England, and that the friends of liberty on both sides of
the Atlantic had but one common cause. "In this great cause,"
he continued, "they are immovably allied; it is the alliance of
God and Nature, immutable, eternal, fixed as the firmament of
heaven." His Lordship admitted the right of Parliament to con-
trol the complicated machinery of commerce and navigation, but
denied its authority over the property of the people of the Colonies ;
"property is private, individual, absolute, the touch of another
annihilates it." He besought the House to rest upon that distinc-
tion, to allow the Americans to maintain their principles of taxa-
tion, and to confine the exercise of parliamentary authority to the
regulation of commerce. Of the Continental Congress the noble
Earl spoke in a strain of the highest eulogy. "History, my Lords,"
said he, "has been my favorite study, and in the celebrated writings
of antiquity have I often admired the patriotism of Greece and
Eome ; but, my Lords, I must declare and avow, that in the master-
states of the world, I know not the people or the Senate, who in
such a complication of difficult circumstances can stand in prefer-
ence to the Delegates of America, assembled in General Congress
at Philadelphia. I trust it is obvious to your Lordships, that all
attempts to impose servitude upon such men, to establish despotism
over such a mighty continental nation, must he vain, must he futile."
The speaker went on to say, that ministerial manoeuvres
would never be able to resist such a union as that of America, that
the hour of danger was not to be averted by the tricks of office, that
matters bad now gone so far that even re])ealing the obnoxious
Acts would not restore the lost confidence of America, unless
his Majesty's armed force was withdrawn from the Continent.
The jSToble Lord pledged himself, that they would one day find
themselves compelled to undo alL their oppressive acts. He advised
them, therefore, to enter at once into that course, of their own
Southwest Virginia, nJt6-1786. ' 201
accord, which they must be ultimately forced to adopt. "To con-
clude, my Ivords," said lie, "if the Ministers thus persevere in mis-
advising and misleading the King, I will not say that they can
alienate the affections of his subjects from the Crown; but, 1
affiriv, they will make the Crown not worth his wearing, I will
not say that the King is betrayed, but I will prononnce that the
Kingdom is undone."
The motion of Lord Chatham was rejected by a large majority,
and the British Ministry declared their purpose never to abandon
a single right until the American Colonies were whipped into
obedience. The same day that William Pitt delivered the pre-
ceding address in the House of Lords, the backwoodsmen of Fin-
castle county met, pursuant to the resolves of the Continental Con-
gress, at the Lead Mines, their county seat, and took action in the
premises ; of which the following is a correct account :
"In obedience to the resolves of the Continental Congress, a
meeting of the Freeholders of Fincastlc County, in Virginia, was
held on the 20th day of January, 1775, who, after approving of the
Association framed by that august liody in behalf of all the Colo-
nies, and subscribing thereto, proceeded to the election of a Com-
mittee, to see the same carried punctually into execution, when the
following gentlemen were nominated : the Eeverend Charles Curn-
mings. Colonel William Preston, Colonel William Christian, Cap-
tain Stephen Trigg, Major Arthur Campbell, Major William Inglis,
Captain Walter Crockett, Captain John Montgomery, Captain
James McGavocl-, Captain William Campbell, Captain Thomas
Madison, Captain Daniel Sviith, Captain William Russell, Captain
Evan Shelby and Lieutenant William Edmondson.. After the elec-
tion the committee made choice of Colonel William Christian
for their chairman, and appointed Mr. David Campbell to be clerk."
The following address was then unanimously agreed to by the
people of the county, and is as follows :
To the Honorable PEYTO^t RANDOLPH, Esquire, RICH-
AED HENRY LEE, GEORGE WASHINGTON, PATRICK
HENRY, Junior. RICHARD BLAND, BENJAMIN HARRI-
SON, and EDMUND PENDLETON, Esquires, the Delegates
from this Colony, who attended the Continental Congress held at
PHILADELPHIA :
Gentlemen,— Had it not been for our remote situation and
202 ^^oufhircsi Virginia, 17J,()-17S6.
the ludian M'nr wliieli we were bitoly engaged in to chastise those
cruel and savage people for the many nuirders and depredations
they have committed amongst us, now happily terminated under
the auspices of our present worthy Governor, His Excellency the
Right Honorable the Earl of Durwiore, we should before this time
have made know^n to you our thankfulness for the very important
services you have rendered to yowx country, in conjunction with
(he worthy Delegates from tlie other Provinces. Your noble efforts
for reconciling the motlier country and the Colonies, on rational
and constitutional principles and yonr pacifick, steady and uniform
conduct in that arduous work entitle you to the esteem of all
British America, and will immortalize you in the annals of your
country. We heartily concur in your resolutions, and shall, in
every instance, strictly and invariably adhere tliereto.
We assure you, gentlemen, and all our countrymen, that we are
a people whose hearts overflow witli love and duty to our lawful
Sovereign, George the Third, whose illustrious House for several
successive reigns have been the guardians of the civil and religious
rights and liberties of British subjects, as settled at the glorious
Eevolution; that we are willing to risk our lives in the service of his
Majesty for the support of the Protestant religion and the rights and
liberties of his subjects, as they have been estal:)lished by compact,
law and ancient chartei's. We are heartily grieved at the dif-
ferences which now subsist between the parent state and the Colo-
nies, and most ardently wish to see harmony restored on an equi-
table basis and by the most lenient measures that can be devised
by the heart of man. Many of us and our forefathers left our
native land, considering it as a kingdom subjected to inordinate
power and greatly abridged of its liberties; we crossed the Atlantic,
and ex])lored this then uncultivated wilderness Iwrdering on many
nations of savages and surrounded by mountains almost inacces-
sible to any but those very savages, who have incessantly been com-
mitting l)arbarities and depredations on us since our first seating
the country. These fatigues and dangers we patiently encoun-
tered, supported by the pleasing hope of enjoying those rights and
liberties which had been granted to Virginians, and were denied
us in our native country, and of transmitting them inviolate to
our posterity; but even to these remote regions the hand of unlim-
ited and unconstitutional power hath pursued us, to strip us of
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6. 203
that liberty and property with which God, nature and the rights
of himianity liave vested lis. We are ready and willing to coutri-
biite all in our power for the support of his Majesty's government,
if applied to constitutionally, and when the grants are made by our
own Eepresentatives, but cannot think of submitting our liljerty
or property to the power of a venal British Parliament, or to the
will of a corrupt jVIinisti'y. We by no means desire to^ shake off our
duty or allegiance to our lawful sovereign, but, on the contrary,
shall ever glory in being the loyal subjects of a Protestant prince,
descended from such illustrious progenitors, so- long as we can
enjoy the free exercise of our religion as Protestants, and our
liberties and properties as British Subjects.
But if no pacifick measures shall be proposed or ado])ted Ijy Great
Britain, and our enemies will attempt tO' dragoon us out of those
inestimable privileges, which we are entitled to as subjects, and
to redTice us to a state of slavery, we declare that we are deliberately
and resolutely determined never to surrender them to any power
upon earth but at the expense of our lives.
These are our real, though unpolished, sentiments of lil)erty and
loyalty, and in them we are resolved to live and die.
We are, gentlemen, with the most perfect esteem and regard,
your most obedient servants.
The meeting of the freehjDlders of Fincastle county, on the 20th
of Janiiary, 1775, in answer to the resolves of the Continental Con-
gress was not the first meeting held for this purpose in the Colony,
Init it was, as far as we have any record, the first meeting in which
the freeholders declared that they were deliberately and resolutely
determined never to surrender their inestimable privileges to any
power upon earth but at the expense of their lives. The senti-
ments of this meeting were definitely stated by the Committee of
Safety when they declared that the freeholders of Fincastle county
did not desire to shake off their allegiance to their lawful sovereign
as long as they could enjoy the free exercise of their religion as
Protestants and their liberties and properties as British subjects.
The Committee of Safety, appointed by the freeholders of Fin-
castle county, was composed of fifteen men, any one of whom, by
reason of his intelligence and patriotism, was competent to draft
the address be'fore given,
'.^he meml)ers of that committee living at that time on lands
204 Southwest Virginia,, 1746-1786.
afterwards Avithin tlie limit? of the county of Washington, were
;-even in niiinber, as follows:
IJeverend Charles Ciimmings, Major Arthur Campbell,
Captain William Campbell, Captain Daniel Smith,
Captain William I'ussell, Captain Evan Shelby,
Lieutenant William Edmiston. i
Early in the year 1775, the British Parliament passed a bill
restraining the trade of Virginia and that of a number of the other
colonies.
Several efforts were made by members of this Parliament to
have measures adopted that would have a tendency to bring the
Colonies and Great Britain together, but all to no purpose. In
the Virginia House of Burgesses, Patrick Henry introduced a num-
ber of resohitions for arming and disciplining the militia of the
(*olonies, and the delegates to the former Congress held in Phil-
adelphia were re-elected, along witli Thomas Jefferson, to^ serve
in the next Congress which met at Philadelphia in May, 1775.
In the month of April, hostilities began between General Gage,
commanding the British forces at Boston, and the troops of the
Massachusetts Colony, and the first blood of the Eevolution was
shed at Lexington, Massachusetts, on the 17th day of April, 1775.
In a few days this news spread, and the entire Colony was in arms.
The first blow had been struck by the King's troops, and now the
Colonies took up their arms in self-defence.
In Virginia, Governor Dunmore, upon a plea that an insurrec-
tion existed in a neighboring count)% removed the powder stored in
the public magazine at Williamsburg, and placed it on board of a
ship by a small body of marines, on the 9th of April, 1775. This
action of the Governor provoked a great deal of discontent, and,
in answer to a request from the officials of the city of Williamsburg,
he promised to restore the powder whenever wanted, but declined
to do so at that time, for the reason that he had heard that the
people were armed, and that he did not think it prudent to put.
powder in their hands.
This promise of the Governor did not satisfy the people, and,
arming themselves, they began to assemble and march through, the
streets of Williamsburg, whereupon, Governor Dunmore sent them
a message in which he stated that if they interfered with any of
the King's officers he would declare freedom to their slaves and
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 205
lav Williamsburg in ashes. This information being communicated
to the sm-i-oimding country and the news from Massachusetts hav-
ing reached Virginia, the people flew to arms in all directions.
Patrick Henry placed no confidence in the promise of the Governor
and resolved upon making an effort to recover the powder.
He organized a company in his own county, and, with this com-
pany, began his march to Williamsburg. Patrick Henry was very
popular with the people of the Colony and upon their hearing of his
determination, fully five thousand men tendered him their services.
The Governor was greatly alarmed by this occurrence and fled from
the capitol and boarded a man-of-war. Apprehending the conse-
(luences of this act of Patrick Henrv's, he directed the Eeceiver-
General of the Colony to meet Mr. Henry and pay him in full for
the powdei" that had been carried off, which he did. Thereupon,
Henry and his followers dispersed to their homes. Two days after
this occurrence, the Governor proclaimed Patrick Henry an out-
law. Upon the ir)th day of July, 1775, the Committee of Safety
for Fincastle county assembled at the Lead Mines, ^d adopted the
following resolutions in approbation of the course pursued by Pat-
lick Henry. S i ' I
At a committee held for Fincastle County, July 15th, 1775,
William Christian, chairman. The committee, taking into their
consideratioB the clandestine removal of the gunpowder from the
magazine o^this Colony by order of our Governor, are clearly and
unanimously of opinion that his Lordship's conduct reflects much
dishonor on himself, and he very justly deserves the censure so
universally bestowed upon him.
Eesolved, That the spirited and meritorious conduct O'f Pat-
rick Henry, Esq., and the rest of the gentlemen volunteers at-
tending him on the occasion of the removal of the gunpowder
out of the magazine in Williamsburg, very justly merits the very
hearty approbation of this committee, for which we return them
our thanks, with an assurance that we will, at the risk of our own
lives and fortunes, support and justify them with regard to the
reprisal they made.*
Eesolved, That the council of this Colony in advising and
co-operating with Lord Dunmore in issuing the proclamation of
the 3d of May last, charging the people of this Colony with an
*Amer. Arch., Vol. II., pp. 16-20, 16-21.
20() Soiilhircst Virginia, l'7Jt6-1786.
ungovernahlc spirit and licentious 2:)ractices, is contrary to many
known inattcM's of fact, and l)nt too jnstly shows to us that those
who oiialit to be mediators and guardians of our liberties are
become the abject tools of a detested administration.
Eesolved, That it is the ojiinion of this committee that the
late sanguinary attempt and pre])arations of the King's troops, in
the C'olony of Narragansett Bay, are truly alarming and irritating,
and loudly call upon all, even the most distant and interiour parts
of the Colonies, to prepare and be ready for the extreme event, by
a fixed resolution and a firm and manly resolve to avert ministerial
cruelty, in defence of our reasonable rights and liberties.
A perusal of these resolutions clearly show the spirit that ani-
mated the people of Fincastle county. The third Continental Con-
gress asseudjled at Philadeli)hia on the loth day of May, 1775, and
elected the following oificers :
l*residcnt, Peyton Randolph, Virginia;
Secretary, -Charles Thompson, of Pennsylvania.
Among the first measures proposed and adopted by this Con-
gress was one looking to the placing of the Colonies in a defensive
position and, on the 7th day of June, 1775, the Congress passed
a resolution fixing the 30th day of July, 1775, as a day to be
observed by the twelve Colonies in humiliation, fasting and prayer.
About this time. General Gage, commander of the British forces
at Boston, issued a proclamation in the King's name^ offering a
jiardon to all of the people who would lay down their arms, except
John Hancock and Samii^l Adams.
At this time, Peyton Randolph, President of the Continental
Congress, resigned his position as President of the Congress, and
thereii]K)n John Hancock was elected president — this election
being in answer to General Gage's proclamation. On the 15th of
June, 1775, tlie Continental Congress, by a unanimous vote, elected
as Commander-in-Chief of all the continental forces George
Washington, of Virginia, and elected the following Major-Gen-
erals: Artemus Ward. Philip Schuyler and Charles Lee, and Ho-
ratio Gates, as Adjutant-General.
On the 17th of June, 1775, the battle of Breed's Hill was
fought, in which l)attle the British suffered a loss of eleven hundred
men, of whdin two hundred and twenty-six were killed, eighty-nine
of the niiiiiher ollicers. '^I'lie American loss was four hundred and
Southwest Virginia, 17J,0-17S0. ^07
fifty-three killed, wounded and missing. The Continental Con-
gress, in this month, ordered twelve rifle companies to l)e raised
in Virginia, ^laryland and Pennsylvania, and directed the issuing
of two million dollars in continental currency, for the redemption
of \\liich they pledged the ])roperty of the twelve Colonies. Gen-
eral Washington, immediately upon the receipt of his commission,
proceeded to Massachusetts, where he took charge of the continental
troops, and, l)y the middle of August, the rifle companies ordered
to he raised in Virginia, reached Camhridge, Massachusetts, in '
time to take part in the capture of Boston.
While we have no documentary evidence of the fact, there can
be no douht that a nuniher of the riflemen from Fincastle county
accompanied the troops from Virginia. In the meantime, on the
()th day of July, 1775, the Congress of the United Colonies adojited
a memorial setting forth the causes that led to, and the necessity
of, their taking up arms.
On the 24th day of Jul}', 1775, the ("olonial Convention of Vir-
ginia met at ^^'illiamsbu^g and appointed a Committee of Safety,
and passed an act for the raising of two regiments to be placed
under the command of Patrick Henry, who was made commander
of all tlie forces raised and to l)e raised in defence of the Colony.
The two regiments were speedily raised, and assembled at Wil-
liamsburg.
The Committee of Safety for Fincastle county, in answer to the
resolutions of the Virginia Convention, immediately dispatched a
company of choice riflemen from Fincastle county, under the com-
mand of Captain William Campbell, this company being among the
first to arrive at Williamsburg.
On the 3d day of Septemljer of this year, a Britisli ship-of-war
was driven ashore near Hampton, Virginia, during a storm, and,
on the morning of the 4th, the people set fire to and destroyed it.
The captain of the ship threatened to burn the town and actually
tried to do so, but the Virginia Committee of Safety dispatched
Colonel Woodford, with three companies of riflemen, to the assist-
ance of the people of Hampton. Of the three companies thus dis-
patched, one was the company of Fincastle troops under Captain
William Campbell.*
When the British captain began his attack upon the town he
*Amer. Arch., Vol. — , p. 296.
208 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
was so warmly received by Colonel Woodford and his men, that he
took to flight after the loss of a number of men. Thus it will
be seen that troops from Fincastle county took part in the first
engagement of the Eevolutionai-y war, on Virginia soil, in which
blood was slied. Upon the receipt of this information. Lord Dun-
more issued a proclamation, proclaiming freedom to all the slaves
who would join his standard. He thus gathered a considerable
number of volunteers, of whom four hundred were slaves. Colonel
Woodford and his company returned to Williamsburg. Lord Dun-
more with his forces began a series of depredations upon the people
living along the sea-coast, and the Virginia Committee of Safety
again dispatched Colonel Woodford at the head of eight hundred
men to drive him from his position at the Great Bridge. Colonel
Woodford had not been long in the vicinity of the Great Bridge,
when Lord Dunmore dispatched Captain Leslie, with the regular
troops and slaves, to attack the troops under Colonel Woodford,
and, as the result of this attempt, every man of the British
troops was killed, wounded or captured ; whereupon. Governor Dun-
more and his troops went aboard their ships, leaving Colonel Wood-
ford and the Colonial troops in complete control of the position
formerly occupied by the Governor.
The Colonial troops that assembled at Williamsburg formed
two battalions, and the first battalion, to which the troops from
Fincastle were attached , was officered as followed :
Colonel, Patrick Henry.
Lieutenant-Colonel, William Christian, of Fincastle county.
Major, Frank Eppes.
Lord Dunmore, after his defeat at the Great Bridge, placed all
his white followers on board the ships and left his negro allies
to shift for themselves. After some time his provisions began to
grow scarce, when he sent a request to the citizens of Norfolk for
supplies, which request was denied, and on the 1st day of January,
1776, he began to bombard the town of Norfolk, with four ships,
and, under cover of the fire from these ships, a company of sailors
landed and set fire to the town, which soon was a heap of ashes;
an uncalled for act upon the part of the British forces.
The British Parliament at its session in 1776, passed an act pro-
hibiting all trade and intercourse with the thirteen American
Colo'nies, and, about the same time, the King of England nego-
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 209
tiated treaties witli some of tJie petty princes of Germany for the
use of a number of Hessian troops in the campaign against the
American Colonies. When information of this act of the British
Parliament reached General Washington, he decided to drive
the British from Boston and proceeded to do so on the 2d of March,
and, on the 4th day of ]\Iarch, General Thomas, with a detachment
of the American troops, took charge of Dorchester Heights over-
looking Boston harlwr. In a few days thereafter. General Howe,
with nine thousand British troops, evacuated Boston without a
fight, and General Washington, at the head of the continental army,
took possession on the 17th day of March, 177C.
On the 6th day of May, 177C, the first constitutional conven-
tion assembled in Virginia, at Williamsburg, pursuant to the direc-
tions of the Committee of Safety, under an ordinance of the con-
vention of 1775, which directed that, in view of the fact tliat the
usual meeting of the General Assembly in a constitutional way had
been altogether obstructed, it had become indispensably necessary
for the oppressed people of this country, at a crisis so alarming,
to adopt such other mode of consulting and providing for the gen-
eral safety as may seem most conducive to that great end. The
members of this convention were elected in the same manner in
which the members of the House of Burgesses had been previously
elected, and the representatives in this convention from Fincastle
county, were :
Arthur Campbell,
W^illiam Russell, ^
both citizens of that part of Fincastle county afterwards included
in the subseqiiently formed county of Washington.
It is hard to understand, except upon the idea that the people
living upon the waters of the Holston and Clinch exceeded in
number the people living on the waters of the New river in Fin-
castle county, how both members of this Convention should have
been residents of the western part of Fincastle county.
Some may say that this was done by consent, but such was not
the fact, for the elections in those days were as hotly contested
as any held in more recent times. It is worthy to be remembered,
that in these early days every freeholder was required to vote under
the penalty of two hundred pounds of tobacco for a failure, and
every freeholder was required to attend and vote on the day
210 South iccsrVinjinla, 17J,G-17S0.
a])p()inted, at the Lead Mines, the county seat of Fincastle county.
Tlie Virginia convention of 1776 was one of the most important
comentions ever lield in tlie State, whether we consider the char-
acter of the memhers, or the work done by them. The Virginia
Colony at tliis time was in open revolt, and Lord Dunmore, the
Governor, was an exile from the State.
Tlic King by liis proclamation had declared the citizens of the
(_!olony rebels and enemies, and now the })eo2jle by their representa-
tives proceeded in an orderly manner to establish a government
for themselves.
The constitution and bill of rights adopted by this convention
clearly defined the fundamental principles of all free government,
and the Declaration of Independence, enunciated at this time, was,
beyond (piestion, the forerunner of the Great Declaration of Inde-
pendence adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4th, 1770.
The Bill of Eights adopted by this convention, is as follows:
"1st. Whereas, George the Tliird, King of Great Britain
and Ireland and Elector of Hanover, heretofore intrusted with the
exercise of the kingly office in this government, hath endeavored
to pei-vert the same into a detestable and insupportable tyranny,
by putting his negative on laws the most wholesome and necessary
for the publick good ;
By denying his governoui's permission to pass laws of imme-
diate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation
for his assent, and, when so suspended, neglecting to attend to
them for many years;
By refusing to pass certain other laws, unless the persons to be
benefitted by them would relinf[uish the inestimable right of repre-
sentation in the legislatures;
By dissolving legislative assem.blies repeatedly and continually,
for 0])))osing with manly firmness his invasions of the rights of
the people;
When dissolved, by refusing to call others for a long space of
time, thereljy leaving the political system without any legislative
head ;
By endeavoring to prevent the population of our country, and,
for that ])nT]-)ose, obstructing the laws for the naturalization of
foreigners ;
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 211
By keeping among us in times of peace, standing armies and
ships of war;
By affecting to render tlie military independent of, and superior
to the civil power;
By coml)ining with others to subject us to a foreign jurisdiction,
giving his assent to their pretended acts of legislation ;
For quartei-ing large bodies of armed troops among us ;
For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world ;
For imposing taxes on us without our consent;
For depriving us of the benefits of trial by jury;
For transporting us beyond seas to be tried for pretended of-
fences ;
For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves
invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever ;
By plundering our seas, ravaging our coasts, burning our towm:.,
and destroying the lives of our people ;
By inciting insurrections of our fellow-subjects, with the al-
lurements of forfeiture and confiscation;
By prompting our negroes to rise in arms among us, those very
negroes, whom, by an inhuman use of his negative, he hath refused
us permission to exclude by law ;
By endeavoring to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers " the
merciless Indian savages, whose known rule of warfare is an un-
distinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions of exist-
ence;
By transporting, at this time, a large army of foreign mer-
cenaries, to complete the works of death, desolation and tyranny al-
ready begun with circumstances of cruelty and perfidy unworthy
the head of a civilized nation;
By answering our repeated petitions for redress with a repeti-
tion of injuries ;
And, finally, by abandoning the helm of government, and de-
claring us out of his allegiance and protection.
By which several acts of misrule, the government of this coun-
try, as formerly exercised under the Crown of Great Britain, is
TOTALLY DISSOLVED.*
The result of this action by the Convention was the formation
*9 Hen. Stat., page 112.
212 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
of a stable and efficient government for the State, and the organi-
zation of the militia of the commonwealth.
This Constitution was proclaimed on the 29th day of June, 1776,
on which day the Committee of Safety, designated by the con-
vention of 1775, relinquished their authority, and Patrick Henry
was -elected the first Governor of the Commonwealth. At the same
time the Privy Council, Treasurer, Attorney General, and the
other state officers were elected by the convention. This conven-
tion, by a resolution, adopted a design for a seal for the new com-
monwealth. The design adopted was as follows :
"To be engraved on the Great Seal, Virtus, the genius of the
Commonwealth, dressed like an Amazon, resting on a spear with
one hand and holding a sword with the other hand and treading
on Tyranny, represented by a man prostrate, a crown fallen from
his head, a broken chain in his left hand and a scourge in his
right. In the exergon the word "Virginia" over the head of Vir-
tus, and underneath the words, ^'^Sic semper tyrannis." On the
reverse a groupe, Libertas, with her wand and pileus. On the other
side of her Ceres, with the cornucopia in one hand and an ear of
wheat in the other. On the other side Eternitas, with globe and
phoenix. In the exergon tliese words : Deus IsTobis Hasc Otia Fecit."
This declaration of the Virginia convention is said to have been
the first declaration of independence recorded in the world's his-
tory. The American people, until this time, had not seriously con-
templated a complete separation from England, but now that the
British Parliament had refused to listen to their petition and was
waging an active war against them, Eichard Henry Lee, a repre-
sentative from Virginia in the Continental Congress at Phila-
delphia, in the month of May, gave notice that on a day named
he would move the Congress to adopt a Declaration of Independ-
ence.
Early in this same month the Continental Congress had adopted
a resolution for the purpose of ascertaining the sentiment of the
American colonies on the subject of the independence of America.
The motion of Mr. Lee was postponed from day to day, until the
first day of July, two days after the adoption of the Virginia Con-
stitution and Bill of Eights, when the Continental Congress re-
solved itself into a committee of the whole, and began the con-
sideration of the report of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benja-
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 213
inin Franklin, Eoger Sherman, and E. E. Livingston, the com-
mittee who had been appointed on the 11th of Jime to prepare
a Declaration of Independence.
It is worthy of note that this committee, when appointed,
agreed that each member should draw up a Declaration of Inde-
pendence according to his own ideas, with the understanding that
the one that best conformed to the wishes of the committee as a
whole should be adopted as the report of the committee. It is
stated that Mr. Jefferson's Declaration, being the first read, was
imanimously adopted by the committee without debate, the other
members refusing to submit their papers for consideration.
The Continental Congress, after three days of heated discussion,
adopted the report of the committee, which report has since been
known as the Declaration of Independence, and is as follows :
When in the course of human events it becomes necessary for
one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected
them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth
the separate and ecpial station to which the laws of nature and
nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of man-
kind requires that they should declare the causes which impel
them to such separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident ; that all men are created
equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain un-
alienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pur-
suit of happiness ; that to secure these rights, governments are
instituted among men, deriving their just powers from tlic consent
of the governed, that whenever any form of government becomes
destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or
abolish it, and to institute a new government, laying its founda-
tion on such principles and organizing its power in such form as
to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness.
Prudence, indeed, would dictate that governments long established
should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accord-
ingly all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed
to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by
abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed; but when a
long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same
object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism.
214 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
it is their right, it is their duty to throw off such government, and
to provide now guards for their future security.
Such has been tlie patient sufferance of these colonies, and such
is now the necessity wliich constrains tliem to alter their former
systems of government. The history of the present King of Great
Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all hav-
ing in direct object the establishment cf an absolute tyranny over
these States. To prove this let facts be submitted to a candid
world.
He has refused his assent to laws the most wholesome and neces-
sary for the public good.
He has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and
pressing importance, unless suspended in their operations till his
assent should be obtained ; and when so suspended he has utterly
neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of
large districts of people, imless those people would relinquish the
rights of representation in the legislature — a right inestimable to
them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, un-
comfortable and distant from the depository of their public
records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance
with his measures.
He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly for opposing,
with manly firmness, his invasion of the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to -
cause others to be elected, whereby the legislative powers, incapa-
ble of annihilation, have returned to the people at large for their
exercise, the State remaining in the meantime exposed to all the
dangers of invasion from without and convulsions within.
He has endeavored to prevent the population of these States;
for that purpose obstructing the laws for naturalization of foTcign-
ers, refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither,
and raising the conditions of new aj^propriations of lands.
He has obstructed the administration of justice by refusing his
assent to laws for establishing judiciary powers.
He has made judges dependent on his will alone for the tenure
of their offices and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither
Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786. 215
swarms of officers, to harrass our people and eat out their sub-
stance.
He has kept among ns in times of peace standing armies with-
out the consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the military independent of and su-
perior to the civil power.
He has combined with otliers to subject us to a jurisdiction
foreign to our constitution and unacknowledged by our laws,
giving his assent to their pretended acts of legislation.
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us,
For protecting them by a mock trial, from punishment, for any
murders which they should commit on the inhabitants of these
States,
For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world.
For imposing taxes on us without our consent,
For depriving us in many cases of the benefit of trial by jury,
FoT transporting us beyond seas, to be tried for pretended
offences,
For abolishing the free system of English laws in a neighboring
Province, establisliing therein an arbitrary government and enlarg-
ing its boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit
instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these
Colonies,
For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws
and altering fundamentally the powers of our gO'Vernments.
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves
invested with power to legislature for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his
protection and waging war against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns,
and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is, at this time, transporting large armies of foreign mer-
cenaries, to complete the work of death, desolation and tyranny,
already begun with circumstances of cruelty and perfidy scarcely
paralleled in the most barbarous ages and totally unworthy the
head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow-citizens, taken captive on the
high seas, to bear arms against their country, to become the execu-
216 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
tioners of their friends and brethren, or to fall themselves by their
hands.
He has excited domestick insurrections amongst us, and has
endeavored to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers the merci-
less Indian savages, whose known rule of warfare is an undistin-
guished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
In every stage of these oppressions, we have petitioned for redress
in the most humble terms; our repeated petitions have been
answered only by repeated injur3^ A Prince whose character is
thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant is unfit to be
the ruler of a free people.
Nor have we been wanting in attention to our British brethren.
We have warned them from time to time, of attempts, made by their
Legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us; we
have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and
settlement here; we have appealed to their native justice and mag-
nanimity; and we have conjured them, by the ties of our common
kindred, to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably
interrupt our connections and correspondence. They, too, have
been deaf to the voice of justice and consanguinity. We must there-
fore acquiesce in the necessity which denounces our separation,
and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war,
in peace friends.
We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of
America in General Congress assembled, appealing to the Supreme
Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the
name and by the authority of the good people of these Colonies,
solemnly publish and declare, that these United Colonies are, and
of right ought to be, free and independent States; that they
are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown.; and that
all political connections between them and the State of Great
Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved ; and that, as free and
independent States, they have full power to le\7 war, conclude
peace, contract alliances, establish commerce and to do all other acts
and things which independent States may of right do. And for
the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protec-
tion of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our
lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.
It has been said that this Declaration of Independence was the
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 217
most sublime exhibition that man has ever made to man. The
members composing the Congress were, in their intelligence and
patriotism, the giants of our race, and the object of that Congress
was the protection of our race.
This Declaration of Independence was proclaimed at Philadel-
phia on the 8th day of July, 1776, and on the 9th it was read
to each brigade of the Continental army. This declaration was
received by the people at all points with the greatest enthusiasm.
A part of the policy adopted by the British Ministry for the
reduction of the American Colonies was the enlisting of the
Indians in the service of the British Government. We have now
reached that point where the history of Southwest Virginia is
closely connected with the operations of the Indians in behalf of
the British Government. Numerous agents of the Eoyal Govern-
ment were sent to the different Indian tribes living along the
waters of the western frontiers, and they were so fai successful in
their efforts to incite the Indian tribes to war, that, by the spring
of 1776, the Creeks, Cherokees, Choctaws and Chickasaws were
induced to take up arms in behalf of their British allies. The
Cherokee Indians, who were the nearest and most accessible tribe
to the white settlers, were more numerous than most of the other
Indian tribes, and they were the first to take up arms at the instance
of the British agents.
If the British government had any friends among the back-
woodsmen of Fincastle county, this action was of such a character
as to alienate the affection and respect of every respectable man.
In speaking of the success of the British agents in this matter,
a distinguished author has said : "Their success and the constant
ravages of the Indians maddened the American frontiersmen upon
whom the blow fell, and changed their resentment against the
British king into a deadly and lasting hatred, which their sons and
grandsons inherited.
Indian warfare was of such peculiar atrocity that the employ-
ment of Indians as allies forbade any further hope of reconciliation.
They saw their homes destroyed, their wives outraged, their chil-
dren captured, their friends butchered and tortured wholesale by
Indians armed with British weapons, bribed by British gold and
obeying the orders of British agents and commanders."*
?Winning of the West, Part II., p. 76.
318 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
About this time Colonel Arthur Campbell, of Fincastle county,
in writing of this action of the British Government, in arming the
Indian tribes, expressed himself as follows : "This infernal malig-
nity of a professed Christian prince was reserved to be exhibited to
the world in the reign of George III."
Alexander Cameron, the British agent among the Cherokee
Indians, lost dlo time in calling together the chiefs and warriors of
this tribe of Indians, to inform them of the wishes of his govern-
ment. When Cameron disclosed to the Indians his plans, they
were greatly astonished, and would not, for some time, believe the
statement of Cameron, that one part of the white people wished to
wage war against their brothers, for a civil war was unknown
between Indians speaking the same language, but he finally suc-
ceeded in enlisting the Indians by promising them presents in
clothing and by telling them that they could plunder and rob the
settlers, and by inducing them to believe that all the lands on the
western waters would be reserved to them by the British govern-
ment as their hunting grounds. This tribe of Indians had been
acting for some time in a manner that clearly indicated that they
were determined upon hostilities.
In the spring of 1775, Andrew Greer, had gone to the Cherokee
towns to purchase furs. While there, he had observed the conduct
of two white traders, and was convinced that they intended to do
him some injury, If possible. When he started from the Indian
towns for his home, he left the main trading path and came up the
Nolichucky trace and escaped injury, but, at the same time,. two
men by the name of Boyd and Doggett, who had been sent to the
Indian towns by the Virginia authorities, were met on the trace
that Greer had left, at Boyd's creek, by Indians, and were killed
by them and their bodies hidden. The Virginia settlement had
long been at peace with the Indians, but they were sufficiently
acquainted with their character to know, that, having once tasted
blood, their disposition was to indulge to excess, and now they knew
they must prepare for a long and bloody war with a tribe of Indians
that exceeded them in numbers. T"hey at once proceeded to put
their frontier settlements in a defensive attitude. A fort was built
at Watauga, to which Avas given the name of Fort Lee, the old fort*
at Long Island was repaired and called Fort Patrick Henry.
*Fort Robinson.
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786. 219
Another fort was erected about seven miles east from Long Island,
at Amos Eaton's, on the trace leading to Fort Chiswell. A fort was
erected shortly before this time at Eye Cove, about fifty miles from
the North Fork of Clinch, by a man by the name of Isaac Crismen,
who was, afterwards, with two members of his family, murdered by
the Indians.
Information of the invasion intended by the Indians was for-
warded to the Committee of Safety of Fincastle county by Isaac
Thomas, an Indian trader, at the instance of Nancy Ward, a noted
Indian woman and a relative of several of the principal chiefs.
The frontier settlement, at this day, was in Carter's Valley, the
settlers obtaining their supplies from the settlement at Wolf Hill
..-.^^(now Abingdon).
The action of the Virginia Committee of Safety, requiring a
test oath of all the citizens of the Commonwealth, had driven many
sympathizers of the British Government to this settlement in Car-
ter's Valley, where they hoped to escape the consequences of their
refusal to subscribe to the oath, but information of their presence
was obtained by John Carter, a Virginian, who communicated the
information he had obtained to the settlers near Wolf Hill. These
settlers were great Whigs, and, upon receiving this information, a
number of them assembled and went to Brown's settlement in Car-
ter's Valley, and after having assembled the people, John Coulter,
a member of the county court of this county, administered to them
an oath to be faithful to the common cause. Early in May, the
settlers in Carter's Valley and all the families below the North
Fork of the Holston, in view of the threatened Indian invasion,
left their homes and returned to the settlements. To add to the
alarm of the frontier settlers, a letter was delivered at the house
of Charles Eobertson, on the 18th day of May, 1776, under circum-
stances that were exceedingly suspicious; which letter accompanied
by the affidavit of Nathan Eeed, was as f oIIom^s : "Wattaga
This day, Nathan Eeed came before me, one of the justices of Wat-
taga, and made oath on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God,
that a stranger came up to Charles Eobertson's gate yesterday even-
ing — who he was he did not know — and delivered a letter of which
this is a true copy. Sworn before me the 19th of May, 1776.
Attest, James Smith. John Carter."
"Gentlemen: — Some time ago, Mr. Cameron and myself wrote
220 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
you a letter by Mr. Thomas, and enclosed a talk we had with the
Indians resjwcting the purchase which is reported you lately m-J.dc-
of them on the rivers Wattaga, Nolichucky. We are since informed
that you are under great apprenhension of the Indians doing mis-
cirief immediately. But it is not the desire of his Majesty to =iet
bis friends and allies, the Indians, on his liege subjects: therefore
whoever you are, that are willing to join his Majesty's forces as
soon as they arrive at the Cherokee nation, by repairing to the
King's standard, shall find protection for themselves and their
families and be free from all danger whatever; yet, that his
Majesty's oflficers may be certain which of you are willing to take
up arms in his Majesty's just right, I have thought fit to recom-
mend it to you and every one that is desirous of preventing in-
evitable ruin to themselves and families, immediately to subscribe
a written paper acknowledging their allegiance to his Majesty
King George, and that they are ready and willing, whenever called
on, to appear in arms in defence of the British right in America ;
which paper, as soon as it is signed and sent to me safe by hand,
should any of the inhabitants be desirous of knowing how they are
to be free from every kind of insult and danger, inform them that
his Majesty will immediately land an army in West Florida, march
them through the Creek to the Chickasaw nation, where five hun-
dred warriors from each nation are to join them, and then come
by Chota, who have promised their assistance, and then to take pos-
session of the frontiers of North Carolina and Virginia, at the
same time that his Majesty's forces make a diversion on the sea
coast of those Provinces. If any of the inhabitants have any beef,
cattle, flour, pork or horses to spare, they shall have a good price
for them by applying to us, as soon as his Majesty's troops are em-
bodied. I am yours, &c.,
"Henry Stuart.'"
Henry Stuart was the Deputy Superintendent of Indian Affairs
for the British Government, and in this capacity he wrote this let-
ter. This letter did not accomplish its purpose, and only had the
effect of exciting the settlers to more vigorous efforts to resist the
plans of the agents of the British crown. On the 8th of June Jar-
rett Williams, an Indian trader, returned to the Virginia settle-
ment from the Cherokee towns and gave further information as to
the intention of the Indians, which information was embodied in
Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786. 221
0'-
an affidavit given before Anthony Bledsoe, a justice of the peace of
Fincastle county. The affidavit was as follows :
"Fincastle, ss. — The deposition of Jarret Williams taken before
me, Anthony Bledsoe, a justice of the peace for the county afore-
said, being first sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God,
deposeth and saith : That he left the Cherokee nation on Monday
night, the 8th inst. (July) ;
"That the part of the nation called the Over-Hills were then
preparing to go to war against the frontiers of Virginia, having
purchased to the amount of 1,000 skins or thereabouts, for mocka-
sons. They were also beating flour for a march, and making other
warlike preparations. Their number, from' calculation made by
the Eaven Warrior, amoimts to about six hundred warriors; and,
according to the deponent's idea, he thinks we may expect a gen-
eral attack any hour. They propose to take away negroes and
horses, and to kill all kinds of sheep, cattle, &c. ; also to de-
stroy all corn, burn houses, &c. And he also heard that the
Valley towns were, a part of them, set off; but that they had
sent a runner to stop them till all were ready to start. He
further relates that Alexander Cameron informed them that he
had concluded to send Captain Nathaniel Guist, William Paulin,
Isaac Williams and the deponent with the Indians, till they
came near to jSTolichucky, then the Indians were to stop and Guest
and the other whites above mentioned were to go to see if there
were any King's men among the inhabitants; and if they found
any they were to take them off to the Indians or have a white sig-
nal in their hands, or otherwise to distinguish them. When this
was done they were to fall on the inhabitants and kill and drive
all they possibly could.
"That on Saturday, the 6tli inst., in the night, he heard two
prisoners were brought in about midnight, but the deponent saw
only one. That the within Williams saw only one scalp brought
by a party of Indians, with a prisoner; but, from accounts, they
had five scalps. He also says he heard the prisoner examined by
Cameron, thought he gave a very imperfect account, being very
much cast down. He further says that the Cherokees had received
the war-belt from the Shawnese, Mingo, Taawah and Delaware
nations, to strike the white people. That fifteen of the said na-
tions were in the Cherokee towns, and that few of the Cherokees
222 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
? •
went in company with the Shawnese, &c. That they all intended
to strike the settlers in Kentucky; and that the Cherokees gave
the Shawnese four scalps of white men, which they had carried
away with them. The said Shawnese and Mingoes informed the
Cherokees that they were then at peace with every other nation ;
that the French were to supply them with ammunition, and that
they wanted the Cherokees to join them to strike the white peo-
ple on the frontiers, which the Cherokees have agreed to.
"And the deponent further saith that, before he left the nation,
a number of the Cherokees of the Lower Towns were gone to fall
on the frontiers of South Carolina and Georgia ; and further saith
not. Jarrett Williams/''
Signed before Anthony Bledsoe.
The settlers on the waters of tlie Holston and Clinch were greatly
aroused by the information received, and the militia was or-
ganized and armed for the purpose of resisting the contemplated
expedition planned by Cameron, the British agent. The reader
must remember that all the settlements as low down as Carter's
Valley, and including the settlement at Watauga, were governed
by Virginia laws at this time, and expected and received protec-
tion from the authorities of Fincastle county in Virginia.
Upon the receipt of this information the Watauga committee
sent an express to Colonel William Preston, the county lieutenant
of Fincastle county, detailing to him their situation and requesting
the assistance of the authorities and supplies of lead and powder.
Colonel Preston replied to this letter on June 3d as follows :
"Gentlemen, — Your letter of the 30th ult. with the deposition of
Mr. Bryan, came to hand this evening by your messenger. The
news is really alarming, with regard to the disposition of the In-
dians, who are doubtless advised to break with the white people,
by the enemies to American liberty who reside among them. But
T cannot conceive that you have anything to fear from the pre-
tended invasion by British troops, by the route they mention.
This must, in my opinion, be a scheme purposely calculated to in-
timidate the inhabitants, either to abandon their plantations or
turn enemies to their country, neither of which I hope it will be
able to effect.
"Our Convention, on the 14th of May, ordered 500 poimds of gun-
powder to each of the counties of Fincastle, Botetourt, Augusta, and
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 223
West Augusta, , and double that quantity of
lead They likewise ordered 100 men to be forthwith
raised in Fincastle, to be stationed where our committee directs for
the protection of the frontier I sent the several letters
and depositions you furnished me, from which it is reasonable to
belie\e that when all these shall have been examined vigorous meas-
ures will be adopted for our protection.
"I have already advertised our committee to meet at Fort Chis-
well on Tuesday the 11th instant, and have directed the candidates
for commissions in the new companies to exert themselves in engag-
ing the number of men required until then. I much expect we shall
have further news from Williamsburg by the time the committee
meets. I have written toi Colonel Calloway the second time for 200
pounds of lead, which I hope he will deliver the bearer. This re-
ply will, I hope, be some relief to j'our distressed settlement, and, as
I said before, should more be wantecf I am convinced you may be
supplied. I am fully convinced that the expense will be repaid
you by the Convention of Virginia or North Carolina on a fair rep-
resentation of the case being laid before them, whichsoever of them
takes your settlement under protection, as there is not the least
reason that any one part of the colony should be at any extraor-
dinary expense in the defence of the whole, and you may be as-
sured you cannot be overstocked with that necessary article, for
should it please Providence that the impending storm should blow
over, and there would be no occasion to use the ammunition in the
general defense, then it might be sold out to individuals, and the
expense of the whole be reimbursed to those who so generously con-
tributed towards the purchase.
"I am, with the most sincere wishes for the safety of your settle-
ment, your most obedient and very humble servant,
"Wm. Pkeston."
The information brought by Thomas to the settlement was to the
effect that seven hundred warriors were to attack the white settle-
ments in two divisions of three hundred and fifty each, led by
Dragging Canoe and Oconostota. The one commanded by Ocono-
stota was to attack the Watauga settlements, while the other, com-
manded by Dragging Canoe, was to attack and break up the settle-
ments between the North and South fork of the Holston river.
224 Southivest Virginia, 17Jt6-1786.
Battle of Long Island Flats.
Upon the receipt of this news a few of the militia hastily as-
sembled and proceeded to Amos Eaton's, the frontier hoiise, about
fifteen miles in advance of tlie settlement, and began to build a
kind of stockade fort with fence-rails, and after some time a
breast-work was completed suflicient to repel a considerable number.
Thereupon expresses were sent to 'J'hompson's Fort, now on the
Ihiff farm, in the upper end of this county; to Edmiston's Fort,
now near Lodi, Virginia; to Cocke's Fort, on Spring Creek; to
Shelby's Fort, on Holston river, and to the settlements"**near Wolf
Hills, and on the following morning about one hundred and seventy
men reported at Eaton's Fort under the command of :
James Thompson, James Shelby,
\ William Buchanan, John Campbell,
William Cocke, Thomas Madison.
On the 19th day of July, 17 76, the scouts returned to Eaton's
Fort and reported that a great number of Indians were making
into the settlements.
Upon the receipt of tliis information it was debated as to the
prudent course to pursue, to await the coming of the Indians in
the fort or to march out and meet them in the woods and fight them
wherever they could be found. Capt. William Cocke argued that
the Indians would not attack them in the fort, but would pass
by and assail the settlements, killing and butchering and carrying
off the property, and proposed to march out and meet the enemy.
The proposition made by Captain Cocke prevailed, and the entire
company, consisting of one hundred and seventy men, marched
from the fort in tlie direction of Long Island, which was about
seven miles distant. This company marched in two divisions, with
flankers on each side and scouts before, and had proceeded not more
than five miles when they discovered about twenty Indians meet-
ing them, upon whom they fired. The Indians returned the fire,
whcT-eupon the white men rushed upon them and put them to flight.
Ten bundles and a good deal of plunder were captured by the white
men, and it was thought that some of the Indians were wounded.
The ground where this skirmish took place was not very advantage-
ous for a pursuit, and the men -were with great difficulty restrained
from pursuing the Indians. A council was held, and it was decided
Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786. 225
to return, as the officers had good reason to believe that a large
part}^ of Indians were not a great way off. They accordingly re-
turned, and had not marched more than a mile when they heard a
noise like distant thunder, and looking around they saw the whole
Indian force running upon them at full speed, whereupon they
made a hasty retreat to an eminence, where they rallied, and Cap-
tain Thompson, the officer in command, ordered that the right line
form for battle to the right and the left line to the left, and to face
. the enemy.
In attempting to obey the orders of Captain Thompson, the head
of the right line bore too much along the road leading in the direc-
tion of the station, and Lieutenant Eobert Davis, perceiving that
the Indians were trying to outflank them, took a part of the line
and formed them as quickly as possible on the right, across the flat
to the ridge, preventing the Indians from accomplishing their pur-
]jose. The officers and many of the men exhibited in this battle a
heroism almost unexampled, ^^'hen the Indians began their attack,
it was with great fury, those in front halloing, "The Unacas are run-
ning. Come on and scalp them." The Indian attack was made
upon the centre and the left flank of the whites at the same time,
and as a result the troops were thrown into great confusion, and it
was found almost impossible to form the troops in the face of the
Indian attacks. Whereupon Capt. James Shelby, stepping to the
front, ordered the several companies to go to the rear and reform
their ranks, while he, accompanied by Lieut. Wm. Moore, Robert
Edmiston, John Morrison and John Findlay, kept the Indians at
bay.
Gilmore, in his ''.Rear Guard of the Revolution," makes the state-,
ment that Edmiston, in a hand-to-hand fight, slew three or four
Indians, Morrison as many more, and that Moore became engaged
in a desperate struggle with a herculean Indian chieftain, and, as
if by general consent, the Indians paused to await its issue. This
delay, no doubt, saved much loss of life among the one hundred and
seventy. It lasted for some minutes, but ended by Moore sinking
his tomahawk into the brain of the Indian. The whites, in the
meantime, had formed their line of battle about a quarter of a mile
long and began to pour a destructive fire into the Cherokees from
cover whenever possible. The Indians, having witnessed the end
of the conflict between Moore and their chieftain, made a rapid
22G Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
advance upon Shelby and his companions, who, about this time,
began to fall back to their line. Whereupon the Indians made a
furious asssault upon Robert Edmiston, wlio held a position in the
centre of the line, during which assault it was afterwards charged
that Edmiston used profane language, upon which charge he was
tried by the Ebbing Spring Presb3i;erian congregation. The en-
gagement lasted from one-half to three-quarters of an hour, when
the Indians disappeared as if by magic, leaving the wliite men
masters of the situation. Thirteen dead Indians were found on the
ground, and many more might have been found if search had been
made for them, for many trails of blood were seen where the dead
had been carried off or the wounded escaped. It is wonderful to
record the fact that no white man was killed in this battle and only
four slightly wounded. The names of the white men wounded in
this battle are, so far as I can ascertain, Joshua Jones and John
Findlay.
We here give a report of this engagement made by the captains in
command to Col. William Preston, the county lieutenant of Fin-
castle county:
"On the 19th our scouts returned and informed us that they had
discovered where a great number of Indians were making into the
settlements, upon which alarm the few men stationed at Eaton's
completed a breast-work sufficiently strong, with the assistance of
what men were there, to have repelled a considerable number ; sent
expresses to the different stations and collected all the forces in
one body, and the moTning after about one hundred aaid seventy
turned out in search of the enemy. We marched in two divisions,
with flankers on each side and scouts before. Our scouts discov-
ered upwards of twenty meeting us, and fired on them. They re-
turned the fire, but our men rushed on them with such violence that
they were obliged to make a precipitate retreat. We took ten bundles
and a good deal of plunder, and had great reason to think some of
them were wounded. This small skirmish happened on ground
very disadvantageous for our men to pursue, though it was with
the greatest difficulty our officers could restrain their men. A coun-
cil was held, and it was thought advisable to return, as we imagined
there was a large party not far off. We accordingly returned, and
had not marched more than a mile when a number, not inferior to
ours, attacked us in the rear. Our men sustained the attack with
Southwest Virginia, 17 46-17 S6. 337
great bravery and intrepidity, immediately forming a line. The
Indians endeavored to surround us, but were prevented by the un-
common fortitude and vigilance of Capt. James Shelby, who took
possession of an eminence that prevented their design. Our line of
battle extended about a quarter of a mile. We killed about thir-
teen on the spot, whom we found, and we have the greatest reason
to believe that we could have found a great many more had we had
time to search for them. There were streams of blood every way,
and it was generally thought tJiere was never so much execution
done in so short a time on the frontiers. Never did troops fight with
greater calmness than ours did. The Indians attacked us with the
greatest fury imaginable, and made the most vigorous efforts to sur-
round us. Our spies really deserve the greatest applause. We took
a great deal of plunder and many guns, and had only four men
greatly wounded. The rest of the troops are in high spirits and
eager for another engagement. We have the greatest reason to be-
lieve they are pouring in great numbers on us, and beg the assistance
of our friends.
. "James Thompson, "John Campbell,
"James Shelby, "William Cocke,
"William Buchanan, "Thomas Madison."
Several incidents are related as having taken place before and
during this battle that we here give as they have l)een preserved,
without vouching for the truth thereof. Benjamin Sharp, in a
letter published in the American Pioneer, gives an incident as oc-
curring during the battle. He says : "An Alexander Moore, a strong,
athletic, active man, by some means, got into close contact with an
Indian of nearly his own size and strength. My brother-in-law, Wil-
liam King, seeing Moore's situation, ran up to his relief, but the
Indian adroitly kept Moore in such a position that King could not
shoot him without hurting Moore. The Indian had a large knife
suspended at his belt, for the possession of which they both struggled,
Ijut at length Moore succeeded and plunged it into the Indian's
l)owels. He then broke his hold and sprang off of Moore, and King
shot him through the head."
Several historians make the statement that William Cocke, one
of the captains upon this expedition, was charged with cowardice
by a number of the militia immediately after a coimcil of the
238 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
officers, had decided to return to Fort Eaton instead of pursuing the
twenty Indians first discovered, and that Captain Cocke, soon after
the return march had begun for Eaton's Fort, halted the line and
delivered a speech in defence of his reputation. We cannot imagine
the reason why the charge should have been made, but from an ex-
amination of the records of the Virginia Privy Council it appears
that on December 9, 1776, the following order was entered:
"It appearing from the deposition of Thomas Madison, Esq.,
tliat there are grounds to suspect Capt. William Cocke of cowardice
in a late action with the Indians, it is therefore ordered that the
said Captain Cocke be forthwith suspended; that the Governor be
requested to write to the county lieutenant of Fincastle directing
]iim to hold a court of inquiry touching the conduct of said Captain
Cocke, and to transmit to this board a copy of the same."
I cannot ascertain what disposition was made of this charge
against Captain Cocke, but I am compelled to believe that he was
acquitted, for he was afterwards elected to the General Assembly of
-^A'irginia from Washington county, and in a few years thereafter
became one of the first United States senators from the State of
Tennessee.
The result of this victory was not only the destruction of a num-
ber of the Indian warriors and the wounding of tlieir savage chief,
Dragging Canoe, but it inspired the settlers with confidence in them-
selves and a contempt of danger from the Indians. It is said that
ever afterwards the inquiry among the white settlers when in search
of the Indians was not "how many of them are there," but "where
are they to be found ?" On the same day that the battle was fought
at the Long Island Flats another body of Indians attacked Fort
Lee at Watauga, in which fort were Capt. James Eobertson and
forty others. But the Indians were repulsed with some loss by the
fire from the fort, but for three weeks skulked around the fort,
during which time a man and a boy, who had ventured to leave the
fort, were assailed by the Indians and captured, and the man scalped
on the spot. The boy, who was a brother of Lieut. Wm. Moore,
was reserved for a worse fate, he being afterwards burned at the
stake by the Indians. Mrs. Wm. Bean, who lived on Boone's creek,
was captured by the Indians, but was subsequently released through
the influence of Nancy Ward.
^ Colonel Eussell, who was located at Fort Patrick Henry, was
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 229
ordered to go, with five companies of militia, to the relief of Fort
Lee, but he was so slow that Col. Evan Shelby raised a company of
about one hundred men in the vicinity of Wolf Hills and proceeded
to Watauga, where he found the inhabitants in their fort and the
Indians gone.
After the battle at Long Island Flats the Virginia militia re-
turned to the fort and the men dispersed to their several homes to
take care of their families and property. In the meantime all the
frontier settlements were breaking up and the settlers fleeing from
every quarter. The main road or trace was crowded with people
moving with the greatest haste to escape the invading Indians. At
the farm of Capt. Joseph Black, where Abingdon now stands, be-
tween four and five hundred people collected together to build a
fort.
The erection of Black^s Fort was begun on the 30th day of July,
1776, the same day that the battle of Long Island Flats was fought,
and the news of the victory of the settlers in that battle was received
the next day.. Upon the receipt of this news all business was sus-
pended, while the Eev. Charles Cummings offered up a prayer
of thanksgiving, in which all the people heartily joined. The defeat
of the Indians, at the Long Island did not end the trouble of the
settlers on the Holston. About the time that the battle was fought
a party of Indians came up the Clinch river burning all the prop-
erty and killing and scalping all the settlers that they could find.
Dividing themselves into small bodies, they invaded the settlements
from the lower end of what is now the present county of Sullivan,
in Tennessee, to the Seven Mile Ford, in Virginia. About the 24th
of July, 1776, Capt. James Montgomery, who had settled on the
south fork of Holston river, about eight miles from Black's Fort,
came to the fort, he and two other families having decided to defend
their own homes. He came in quest of intelligence, and was
earnestly besought by the people of the fort to bring in the families,
to which he agreed, and men and horses were sent to assist him.
This company soon returned toi the fort with the families and some
of their property, and went back to bring in the rest of the prop-
erty when, to their surprise, they found the houses plundered and in
flames. The company thereupon hastily retreated to the fort, and
spies were sent out to locate the Indians if possible, but no dis-
coveries were made for some days, when at length the spies came in
330 Southiuest Virginia, 1746-1786.
one night and reported that they had discovered a fire on the bank
of the river above Montgomery's which they supposed to be the
Indian camp.*
Upon receipt of this informaiion an express was sent to Bryan's
Fort requesting their men to meet the men from Black's Fort at a
certain place that night. The two companies met according to
agreement, and the spies conducted them to the spot where they
had seen the fire, when the Indians were surrounded from the river
below to the river above them, with strict injunctions to ,the men to
preserve a profound silence till the report of the captain's gun
should give the signal for a general discharge; and in this position
they waited for daylight. At the dawn of day, when tlie Indians
arose and began to stir about the camp, the crack of the captain's
rifle was followed by a well-directed fire from every quarter. The
Indians fled across the river, exposed all the way to the fire of the
whites. Eleven Indians lay dead at and around the camp, and the
number that fell and sank in the river is not known. The men
crossed the river and found numerous trails of blood, one of which
they followed to where an Indian had crept into a hollow log, wliom
they drew out by his feet, and, according to his request, shot him in
the head. As a result of this slaughter of Indians the settlers at
Black's Fort were greatly rejoiced, and the eleven Indian scalps
were attached to a long pole and fixed as a trophy over the fort
gates, f Several days thereafter tliree companies prepared to go out
from the fort to visit their plantations and on other missions. The
first company to leave the fort was composed of John Sharp, his t\vr,
sons, and two sons-in-law. They went early and were tmmolested.
The second company to leave the fort on that day was composed oP
Arthur Blackburn, William Casey and his sister Nancy, who was
about sixteen years of age, Eobert Harold and several others, and
about the same time a third company left the fort to' visit the hoii.-e
of Rev. Charles Cummings to bring his books and some of his prop-
erty into the fort. Both of these parties were attacked by the
Indians at the same time within hearing of the fort, where an inde-
scribable scene of disorder took place, the women and children
screaming, wives clinging to their husbands, mothers to their sons
*This oamp was on the Mahaffey farm.
fBenj. Sharp letter, published in American Pioneer. He was an occupant
of the fort at the time.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 231
and sisters to their brothers, to prevent them from going ont of the
fort.
However, a number of them left the fort and ran to the rescue
of the companies as fast as possible, but before they arrived upon
the scene the Indians had done their work and gone. Of the second
company to leave the fort Arthur Blackburn was shot, tomahawked,
and scalped, but was found alive, broaight in, and recovered from
his wounds. Along with this same company was William Casey
and his sister Nancy, a beautiful little girl about sixteen years of
age. As Casey was running for his life to the fort he discovered
the Indians in hot pursuit of his sister, and seeing Eobert Harold,
another young man, close by, he called to him to come and help him
save Nancy. Harold obeyed, and, although there were from four
to seven Indians in pursuit, these young men rushed between them
and the girl, and by dexterously managing to fire alternately, still
keeping one gun loaded when tlie other was discharged, they kept
the Indians at bay till they gave up the pursuit and the girl was
brought in safe. The author of this account says, "Such acts of gen-
erous bravery ought at all times be held as examples to our youth."
The third company was composed of the Rev. Charles Cum-
mings, his servant Job, William Creswell, the driver, James Piper
and one other; and when they had reached a point called Piper's
Hill, they were attacked by a band of Indians, and at the first fire
William Creswell, who had taken part in the battle of Long Island
Flats, was killed and two of the other men were wounded, James
Piper having his finger shot off, but the Rev. Charles Cummings,
with the remaining man, and his servant Job, held the Indians
at bay until he obtained help from Black's Fort, when he brought
off the wounded men in safety. William Creswell was buried near
the Presbyterian church, now Sinking Spring Cemetery, where his
grave may be seen at this day marked by a rude tombstone. An
exact reproduction of the inscription thereon is here given :
William Creswell
entered this place
July, 1776.
It has been stated that this is the oldest known grave in this sec-
tion, but such is not the fact. Poston's graveyard is situated on a
high knob in close proximity to the falls of the north fork of Holston
232 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
river, in this county, and in the graveyard is found a grave marked
by a iimestone rock upon which is inscribed, "Mary Boyd, died Feby.
17, 1773, aged 3 years. Alexander Boyd's child." Tradition says
that this death occurred by the capsizing of Boyd's boat in passing
over the falls, Boyd at the time emigrating to the extreme frontiers.
From the period that Mr. Cummings commenced preaching in
the Holston settlements up to the time of this attack the men never
went to church without being armed and taking their families with
them. On Sabbath morning during most of this period it was the
custom of Mr. Cummings to dress himself neatly, put on his shot
pouch, shoulder his rifle, mount his horse and ride off to church,
where he met his gallant and intelligent congregation, each man
with his rifle in his hand. The minister would then enter the
church, walk gravely through the crowd, ascend the pulpit, deposit
his rifle in a corner of it, lay off his shot pouch, and commence the
solemn services of the day.*
The Eev. Charles Cummings was what would be termed in
our day " a fighting parson." Immediately after the occurrence*
above stated Mr. Cummings and about one hundred of his parishion-
ers, under the command of Evan Shelby, hurried to the relief of
the Watauga settlers who were besieged by the Indians in Fort Lee,
and he accompanied Col. William Christian on his expedition against
the Cherokee Indians in the fall of this year, preaching at different
points in East Tennessee to settlers and soldiers whenever the oppor-
tunity offered itself, he being the first minister of the gospel to de-
liver the message of peace in the boundaries of the present State
of Tennessee. In the year 1776 the ground now occupied by Martha
Washington College and Stonewall Jackson Institute was a dense
chinquapin thicket, and the lands between the thicket and Black's
Fort were cultivated in flax. During the summer of the year
1776 two men and three women were pulling flax near the fort
with Frederick Mongle stationed as sentinel to give the alarm
should the Indians make their appearance. The Indians, who had
hidden themselves in the bushes above referred to, quietly ap-
proached and wounded and scalped Mr. Mongle, but the other
persons reached the fort in safety by dodging from tree to tree.
The men from the fort came at once to the rescue, and, attacking
Governor David Campbell's MSS.
Southwest Virginia, 174-6-1786. 333
the Indians, drove . them off. Mr. Mongle soon died from his
wounds, and his relatives claim that his grave, and not William
Creswell's, was the first made in Sinking Spring Cemetery. But
this contention cannot be correct, for Mongle was not killed until
several weeks after the death of William Creswell.
During the summer several murders were committed by the
Indians. Two men, who had gone out to bring up their horses,
were killed almost in sight of a neighboring fort, and of the two men
who went with an express from Fort Black one was killed and the
other made his escape.
As a result of the trouble with the Indians Col. Wm. Chris-
tian, Capt. Wm. Campbell, and Capt. Wm. Eussell returned to
their homes from the regular continental army to assist in the
defence of their homes from the combined attacks of the British
and Indians. The Governor of Virginia at this time directed Col.
AVm. Fleming, of Botetourt county, to dispatch a body of the
militia of that county to the frontiers of Fincastle county for the
protection of the inhabitants, and pursuant to this order Capt.
Thomas Eowland was dispatched with his^company to the fron-
tiers. The following is a complete list of Captain Eowland's com-
pany:
Capt. Thomas Eowland, William Kyles,
Henry Cartmill, Martin McFattin,
Martin Baker, James Esprey,
John Wood, Samuel McFarrin,
Thomas Bowyer, George Eutledge,
James Leatherdale, William Calbert,
John Crawford, Edward Carbin,
David WaUace, Samuel M'Eoberts,
James Bryant, Thomas Peage,
William Bryant, Stephen Holston,
Eobert Feely, William Henry,
Elijah Vinsant, George Givens,
John Moor, James Cloyd,
Thomas Eagnew, Isaac Lawrence,
Isaac Eichardson, William Wills,
James Nicholas, James McQuown,
William Crawford, James Eobinson,
234 Sbuthtvest Virginia, 1746-1786.
James Alcorn, William Kichey,
George Tlutchinson Joseph Kyles,
(B-otetourt parish), Samuel McChire,
Rev. Adam Smyth, pastor, Patrick Lockliait,
William Astin, John Mills,
W^illiam Leatherdale, Henry Smith,
Eobert Woods, James Gaunt,
Edward Guilford, Joseph Carrol,
Joseph Bryant, John Jones,
William McFarrin, Henry Walker,
Jacob Kimberland, John Burks,
Robert Birdswell, Thomas Arbuekle,
Thomas Howell, David Lawrence,
\ Samuel Blair, Patrick Lawrence,
David Harbinson, John Frager,
Jonathan Wood, William Ross.
Joseph Titus,
This expedition accomplished nothing of value. This muster
roll is given as a matter of information to the many descendants
of these men who are now living in this county.
In the year 1776, at the time of the battle of Long Island Flats,
a man by the name of Lewis, with his wife and seven children,
lived in the bounds of the present county of Scott. He was
informed by Captain John Redd, that the Indians had declared war
and were on the warpath, and was advised to move into the settle-
ments, but he swore that he was in no danger, the Indians would
never find him, but, soon thereafter, the Indians visited his home
and killed and scalped Lewis, his wife and seven children. Among
the extreme settlers who left their homes and returned to the set-
tlements, was a man by the name of Ambrose Fletcher, whose fam-
ily consisted of himself, his wife and two children. Fletcher had
settled at Martin's Fort in Powell's Valley, and fled from that
point to Blackmore's Foxt, on Cove creek, now in Scott county, ?
Virginia. He and his family remained in Blackmore's Fort for
a few days, wben, the fort becoming very much crowded, Fletcher
built a small cabin, about thirty or forty yards back of the fort,
and moved into it. Sliortly afterwards, Fletcher left his home to
go to a canebrake to get his horse, and, on returning, he found his
wife and two children tomahawked and scalped.
Southwest Virginia, 17Ji6-1786. 235
At this time the following forts were to be found on the waters
of the Holston and Clinch, so far as I can ascertain :
Thompson's Fort, located on the farm now owned by Huff Bros.
Edmiston's Fort, located on Snodgrass's farm at Lodi, Va.
Bryan's Fort, located at Kendrick's Mill.
Black's Fort, located at Abingdon, Virginia.
Cocke's Fort, located on Clyce Farm on Spring creek.
Bledsoe's Fort, located .
Shelby's Fort, located Bristol.
Eaton's Fort, located seven miles east of Long Island.
Fort Patrick Henry, located at Long Island.
Fort Lee, located, at Watauga.
Gillespie's Fort, located .
Womack's Fort, located, near Bluff City, Tennessee.
Martin's Fort, located in Powell's Valley.
Priest's Fort, located in Powell's Valley.
Mumps' Fort, located in Powell's Valley.
Rye Cove Fort, located .
Blackmore's Fort, located Cove creek.
Glade Hollow Fort, located in Russell county.
Hamlin's Fort, located near Castle's Woods.
Elk Garden Fort, located Russell county.
Fort Bowen, located at Maiden Spring.
Wynne's Fort, located Tazewell county, Wynne's branch.
Crab Orchard Fort, located Tazewell county.
At the same time that the Virginia settlements were suffering
from the invasion of the Indians, North Carolina, South Carolina
and Georgia, were experiencing like invasions. These four fron-
tier colonies decided to invade the Indian country and bring
them to their senses, by destroying their towns and chastising their
warriors. The Cherokee Indians occupied that vast country north
of the upper settlements in Georgia and west of the settlements in
North and South Carolina and Southwest Virginia. Their coun-
try was divided into three sections, and the number -of the warriors
in each was as follows:
Middle Settlements and Valleys 878
In Lower Towns 356
In Over-Hill Towns 757
Total 1,991
236 Southwest Virginia, nJf6-n86.
The Georgia militia, under tlie command of Colonel McBury and
Major Jack, invaded the Indian settlements on the Tugalo river,
routed the Indians and destroj^ed all their towns. The militia: of
South Carolina, being about 1150 men, under the command of
General Williamson, in the early days of August, marched into
the Indian settlements and met and defeated, at Oconoree, Alex-
ander Cameron, who was in command of a large body of Indians
and white men. They burned a number of Indian towns and
returned to their homes. The militia of the State of North Caro-
lina, numbering about 2,000 men, under the command of General
Eutherford, marched into the middle settlements and valleys,
about the same time. Upon the approach of this army, the Indians
fled. Their towns were burned, to the number of thirty or forty,
and these troops returned to North Carolina. While the troops of
the States of Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina were
invading the middle settlements and lower towns of the Cherokees,
the Virginia authorities were making every preparation to invade
the over-hill towns.
On the 22d of July, 1776, the Virginia Council received a letter
from President Eutledge, of South Carolina, informing them that
hostilities had been commenced by the Cherokee Indians, and that
Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina had agreed to set
on foot an expedition against the lower towns and middle settle-
ments at once, and requesting the cooperation of Virginia, asking
that she carry war into the upper or over-hill t/owns. Thereupon,
the council directed Colonel Charles Lewis to march immediately,
with his battalion of minute men, to the frontiers. Upon the
receipt of this order Colonel Lewis immediately marched his bat-
talion of troops to the vicinity of New river in Fincastle county,
where it was ascertained that a number of his men were unfit for
an Indian expedition ; whereupon, he was directed to discharge all
such and to recruit others in their stead.
On the first day of August, 1776, the Virginia Council ordered
that a commission issue appointing William Christian, Esq., colonel
of the first battalion and commander-in-chief of all the forces
raised for nse in the expedition against the Cherokee Indians. It
was decided to send two battalions of troops upon this expedition,
which were officered as follows:
Commander-in-chief, William Christian.
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
287
Colonel, first battalion, William Christian.
Major, first battalion, Evan Shelby.
Surgeon, first battalion, Joseph Starke.
Colonel, second l^attalion, Charles Lewis.
Surgeon, second battalion, George Hart.
Captain James Thompson and his company formed the life
guard of Colonel Christian, the commander-in-chief, upon this
expedition.
The folloAving captains, with their companies, accampanied thia
expedition against tlie (Jheiokee Indians, so far as 1 can ascertain:
Captain John Campbell,
Captain William Russell,
Captain Eobert Boggs,
Captain John Sevier,
Captain James Thompson,
Captain Isaac Bledsoe,
Captain John Momtgomery,
Captain Daniel Smith,
Captain Aaron Lewis,
Captain Jacob Womack,
Captain William Cocke,
Captain Benjamin Gray,
Captain William Preston,
Captain Thomas Madison.
Captain Thomas Madison was appointed commissary and pay-
master upon this expedition.
But little is known of the participants in this expedition. I have,
therefore, gathered the names of the privates who took part in. this
expedition, as far as I can obtain them. Their names are as
follows :
llobert, Campbell,
Thomas Hobbs, wounded.
Thomas Berry, wounded.
Christopher Watson,
Matthew Allison,
John Finley,
Andrew Wallace,
Humphrey Higgins,
James Sawyers,
William Crawford,
James Buford,
Joshua Eenfro,
William Hogart,
Ephraim Dunlap,
Michael Ocheltree,
Benjamin Thomas,
John Wood,
Eobert Finley,
William WiUs,
Jacob Gardner,
Samuel Ewing,
George Caldwell,
Jacob Early,
James Berry,
Henley Moore,
Jacob Anderson,
John Adair,
James Robinson,
238
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
William Hicks,
David Getgood,
Samuel Gay,
Isaac Eiddle,
David Smith,
Edward Eoss,
Gideon Farris,
Jesse Womack,
John Furnham,
William Frogg,
William Milnm,
Lance Woodward,
Francis Katherine,
Daniel Henderson,
Amos Eaton,
David Ro'unceval,
Samuel Douglas, wounded
Duncan, killed;
George Berry, wounded;
John Reburn,
Abraham Crabtree,
David McKenzie,
Christopher Irwin,
John Cochran,
James Young,
William Meade,
David Wallace,
Stephen Holston,
Patrick Murphy,
Isbon Talbert,
James Campbell,
: Matthew Scott,
Thomas Logwood,
Robert Preston,
Robert Campbell,
Jacob Cogor,
Daniel Kidd,
John Goff,
Cuthbert Jones,
Samuel Campbell,
William Markland,
Joseph McCormick,
James McCockle,
Joseph Russell,
Jonathan Martin, -
Gideon Morris,
William Ingram,
Robert Stewart,
James Berry,
Daniel Smith,
William Haynes,
John McClanahan,
John Phelps,
Abraham McClanahan,
James Arnold,
Hanrist Carlock,
Andrew Little,
Thomas Berry,
John Latham,
William Ramsay,
James Bradley,
Lambert Lame,
John Rice,
Joab Springer,
Onsbey Carney,
John Crane,
Benjamin Drake,
Benjamin Rice,
David Irwin,
George Miller,
Thomas Ramsay,
Thomas Fowler,
Thomas Smith,
George Coon,
William Rice,
Isaac Rounceval,
James M'Farland,
William Ross,
Southwest Virginia^ 1746-1786.
339
Philip Love,
David English,
James Tuttle,
Meredy Eeins,
Michael Gleaves,
Christian Shiiltz,
Samuel Ingram,
James Newell,
William Bennett,
Tittleton Brooks,
Michael Eowland,
William Mitchell,
William Eice,
Philip Williams,
James Harris,
Arthur Onsbey,
William Nettles,
John Harris, Jr.,
William Lane,
David Hunter,
Michael Ohair,
John Walker,
Ebenezer Meads,
Samuel Campbell,
Francis Hamilton,
^ James Daugherty,
Frederick Fraily,
William Edmiston,
David Carson,
James M'Cain,
James Steel,
Eobert Gambell,
Daniel M'Cormack,
Jonathan Jennings,
George Parker,
William Peoples,
Valentine Little,
Samuel Fair,
Alexander Butler,
William Brown,
Tjeonard Helm,
James Greer,
Samuel Ewin,
Eichard Thomas,
Eobert Stephenson,
Eobert M'Elheney,
Isaac Thomas,
John Craig,
Adam Brausteter,
Michael Dougherty,
James M'Carthy,
William Henson,
Charles Eice,
Jesse Henson,
Jonathan Mulhey,
Moses Winters,
John Harris, Sr.,
James Beets,
John M'Farland,
Nicholas Edwards,
James Kelley,
James Eichardson,
James Hamilton,
George Newland,
James Williams,
Henry Whitner,
Henry Eichardson,
John Muldrough,
Michael Francisco,
James Mason,
Solomon Kendrick,
William White,
Charles Cocke,
John Craig,
Eobert McNutt,
Jacob Steams,
John Simpson,
Thomas Price,
240
Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
Peter Haff,
Henry Rice,
William Lane,
Philip Mulhey, Sr.,
I^ewis Crane,
Isaac Lindsay,-
Samuel Martin,
James M'Clern,
James Smith,
Lewis Whitner,
William Calvert,
Samuel Eason,
James M'Donald,
Samuel Montgomery,
William Carr,
John Gibson,
James Walker,
Philip Mulhey, Jr., >
Andrew Cowan,
John Adair,
James Cameron,
George Scott, •
Joseph Perrin
Nicholas Edwards,
John Hounshel,
Adam Brausteter,
James Doran,
George Caldwell,
Jeremiah Rush,
Robert Hardwicke,
Joseph M'Reynolds,
Benjamin Logan,
Robert Cowden,
Andrew Irwin,
John Gordon,
Thomas Goldsby,
Peter Tnrney,
Anthony Bledsoe,
John Walker,
Evan Williams,
Edward Piggett,
Jacob Vance.
On the 26th day of July, 1776, the Honorable Cornelius Har-
nett, president of the Council of Safety of North Carolina, informed
the Virginia Council that the Cherokees entertained the design of
cutting off the persons employed at the Lead Mines, whereupon, the
Council ordered William Preston, the county lieutenant of Fincastlo
county, to raise, at once, a stockade fort for the defence of said
mines and to garrison the same with a force of twenty-five men.
On the first day of August, 1776, the Virginia Council gave the
following instructions to William Christian, commander-in-chief,
and Colonel Charles Lewis, in command of the second battalion,
of the forces in the expedition against the Cherokees.
"When your battalion and the battalion under Colonel Charles
Lewis are completed, you are to march with them and the forces
under the command of Colonel Russell, and such others as may join
you from Carolina, into the Cherokee country, if these forces shall
be judged sufficient for the purpose of severely chastising that cruel
and perfidious nation, which you are to do in a manner most likely
to put a stop to' future insults and ravages and that may redound
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 241
most to the honor of American arms. If the Indians should be
reduced to the necessity of suing for peace, you must take care to
demand of them a sufficient number of their chiefs and warriors as
hostages, for the performance of the conditions you may require of
them. You must insist on their delivering up all prisoners who
may choose to leave them and on their giving up to justice all per-
sons amongst them who have been concerned in bringing on the
present war, particularly Stuart, Cameron and Gist, and all others
whO' have committed murder or robberies on our frontiers. You
may require any other terms which the situation of affairs may
point out and you may judge necessary for the safety and honor of
the Commonwealth. You must endeavor to communicate with the
commanding officer of the Carolina forces and cooperate with him,
making the attack as near the time of his as may be.
You are from time to time to write His Excellency the Governor,
giving him a full account of your operations, and requiring his
further instructions. Instructions to Colonel Charles Lewis of the
second battalion of minute men: You are to order the captains
under your command to march their companies to their respective
counties, then to discharge such of their men as are not properly
qualified to serve on an expedition against the Indians, and to raise
with all possible dispatch in their stead the best recruits that can
be found for the service, and, having so completed their companies,
to repair to the Big Island on Holston river in Fincastle county, the
place of general rendezvous."
And, on the 6th day of August, 1776, the Virginia Council
directed tlie keeper of the magazine to forward to Colonel William
Christian 1,000 poimds of powder, two flints to be used on this
expedition.
It required some time to organize and equip the forces intended
to proceed against the Cherokee Indians, which work was carried
on with the greatest possible expedition, until the first week in Sep-
tember.
FINCASTLE COUNTY OEGANIZED UNDER THE STATE
CONSTITUTION.
The first county court of Fincastle county, under the Constitution
of the Commonwealth of Virginia, assembled at the Lead Mines,
(now in Wythe county), on September 3, 1776, at which time the
242 Southwest Virginia, 174G-1786.
following members of the county court and officers of Fincastle
county qualified by taking the oatli prescribed by an ordinance of
the Virginia Convention, which oath was administered by James
McGavock and Arthur Campbell.
MEMBEES OF TPIE COUNTY COUET:
William Preston, Arthur Campbell,
James McGavock, John Montgomery,
James McCorkle.
Sheriff, William Preston, appointed by the court.
Deputy Sheriff, William Sayers,
Deputy Clerk, Stephen Trigg,
County-Lieutenant, William Preston.
Attorney-at-Law, Harry Innes.
But little business of importance was transacted at this term of
the court, so far as the records that have been preserved show.
Thus began the first organized government under the Constitu-
tion of Virginia, in Fincastle county.
In the month of September, 1776, that portion of the troops under
the command of Colonel William Eussell began their march to the
Great Island of the Holston, at which time Anthony Bledsoe entered
two wagons in the public service, to convey the baggage and pro-
vision of the troops. This circumstance is mentioned, for the rea-
son that this was the first time, as far as can be ascertained, that
a wagon was taken by tlie white man, as low down as the Long
Island in Holston.
When Colonel Eussell reached the Long Island, he thought it
necessary to erect a fort in a field on the land of John Latham, on
Long Island, which fort was speedily erected and every preparation
made for the coming of the troops under command of Colonel Chris-
tian. A company of militia was enrolled at Black's Fort (now
Abingdon), and taken into the pay of the government, to guard
the new fort, called Fort Patrick Henry, at Long Island, and to
guard the provision and baggage wagons going to and returning
from that fort. By the first day of October, Colonel Christian, with
his entire army of 2,000 men, including about 400 men from North
Carolina under command of Colonel Joseph Williams, Colonel Love
and Major Winston, arrived at Long Island. When the army had
proceeded about six miles beyond Long Island, Colonel Christian
Southwest Virginia, 174G-1780. 243
halted his unny and offered a reward of one hundred pounds to
an}' pei'son or persons who woukl proceed to the Cherokee towns and
bring liini a prisoner, in order to obtain intelligence of the motions
of the enemy; whereupon, 8amnel Ewing, John Blankenship and
James jMcCall undertook the business, and in a few days entered
the town of To(pio, after crossing the Tennessee river, where they
met an Indian man on horseback, whom they permitted to escape,
lest it might occasion a discovery. They next visited the house of a
Iving's man by the name of LowTy, where they were refused admit-
tance. They then proceeded to the house of one Davis^ from whom
tliey ol)tained intelligence of the designs of the enemy, when they
I'eturned to the army and gave a true account of the situation of
affairs in the Indian country, according to their information, and
they were paid by the General Assembly of Virginia the one hun-
dred pounds, pursuant to the agreement of Colonel Christian.
Upon the receipt of this information. Colonel Christian and his
army proceeded, in a very cautious manner, on their march to the
Tennessee, always encamping, at night, behind brea.stworks, to pre-
vent a surprise.
Colonel John Sevier commanded, upon this expedition, a com-
])any of horse, the rest of tlie army being infantry. Sixteen spies
were sent in advance of the army to the crossing of the French
Broad ri^er, a point where the Indians said the white men should
never cro^ss. After being several days out, Alexander Harlin came
into camp and told Colonel Christian that 3,000 Indian warriors
were awaiting his arrival at the crossing of the French Broad. Col-
onel Christian permitted him to go through the camp and to observe
the strengtli of his army, when he was dismissed by Colonel Chris-
tian, with direction tO' inform the Indians of his determination to
cross, not only the French Broad, but the Tennessee river, before he
returned. The army continued its march through the wilderness,
under direction of Isaac Thomas, the noted Indian trader and friend
of Nancy Ward, as pilot. When they approached the crossing of
the French Broad river, a king's man by the name of Fallin
approached the camp with a flag of truce, to which Colonel Christian
paid no attention, permitting Fallin to pass through the camp unmo-
lested, that he might observe the strength of Christian's army. It is
said that the Indians had gathered on the opposite side of this cross-
ing determined to defend its passage to the last extremity, when a
244 Southiuest Virginia, 17J,6-178G.
white man by the name of Starr, in the absence of Fallin, persuaded
the Indians that it was folly to resist the invasion of the whites.
In an earnest harangue, he told them it was folly to contend with
the white man. That the Great Spirit intended he should over-
run and occupy all the low lands which should be cultivated. To
the red man he had given the hills and forests, where he might sub-
sist on game without tilling the soil, which was work fit only for
woiuen. To struggle with the white man was, therefore, to fight
with destiny. The only safety for the Indians lay in a speedy retreat
to their mountain fastnesses."*
From some cause the Indians disbanded and dispersed without
offering any resistance to the white men. Colonel Christian and
his army crossed tJie river and pressed rapidly forward to the Chero-
kee towns along the Little Tennessee and Telico, every one of whicli
was destroyed, except Chota, the home of Nancy Ward, the beloved
woman of the Indian tribe and the friend of the white man; and
Colonel Christian destroyed all grain, cattle and other provisions
found in the nation. When Colonel Christian had destroyed the
towns and property of the Indians and had chastised them as far
as it was possible to do so, he sent out a number of men with flags
of truce, and requested a talk with the Chiefs. A number of them
came in immediately and proposed peace. Colonel Christian told
them he was willing to grant them peace, but not until the tribe was
fully represented, and, thereupon. Colonel Christian fixed a day for
the concluding of peace in' the following May, at Long Island in
Holston river, and, in the meantime, hostilities were to cease except
as to two to\\Tis on the Tennessee river, where young Moore, who
had been captured at Watauga, had been burned at the stake ; which
proposition was accepted. Colonel John Sevier, thereupon, visited
the towns in question and left the same in ashes.
Colonel Christian finding nothing further to engage his attention,
returned with his army to the liOng Island in Holston river. This
campaign lasted three months, and but a single white man was
killed. This w^as a man whose name was Duncan, a soldier under
Captain Jacob Womack. He was killed in an engagement with the
Indians. This man left a wife (she was a cripple), and five small
children, to whom the General Assembly of Virginia, on June Ifi,
1777, allowed the sum of twenty pounds for their present relief and
*Rear Guard of the Revolution, p. 126.
Southivest Virginia, 17^6-1786. 245
the further sum of five pounds per annum, for the period of five
years, with directions to Anthony Bledsoe and William Cocke, to lay
out and expend the same for the support and maintenance of Eliza-
beth Duncan and her children. Several white men were slightly
wounded by the Indians and by accident, upon this expedition,
among the number being Samuel Douglas, Thomas Berry and
George Berry, Jr.
Upon the return of the army to the Long Island of the Holston,
Colonel Christian reorganized the same, and, for the protection of
the frontiers, left six hundred men at the island under the command
of Colonel Evan Shelby and Major Anthony Bledsoe.
The General Assembly of Virginia directed the Governor and
Council to take such measures for the preservation and disposition
of the horses and provision belonging to the government and in use
upon this expedition as should appear to be most proper and con-
ducive to the interest of the country. And, by the same act, the
Governor and Council were directed to give instructions to the com-
manding officer of the army destined against the Cherokees, to
take such steps, at the end of the campaign, as were thonght neces-
sary for the future safety and protection of the southwestern fron-
tier of this State. Whereupon the Governor and Council of Virginia
directed Captain Thomas Madison tO' take the necessary steps to col-
lect all the cattle and horses on hand upon the return of the army
from this expedition, and to take care of them, whereupon Captain
Madison employed:
William Carmack, John Delaney,
Stephen Eichards, TMatthew Dean,
John Fulkerson, Cornelius Carmack,
Andrew Greer, Joseph Greer,
John Nash, Samuel Looney,
Peter Looney, William McBroom,
John Cox, John Carmack,
Jonathan Drake, Ezekiel Smith,
Henry Hickey, Isaac Drake,
Hugh Blair, Benjamin Drake,
to herd and take care of the country cattle, from the 13th day of
November, 1776, to the 11th day of June, 1777. And Colonel
Christian, pursuant to the directions of the Governor and Council,
stationed the six hundred men as above detailed at Long Island,
246 Southwest Virginia, 1740-1786.
and directed Captaioi Joseph Martin tO' proceed to the Eye Gove
Fort, about fifty miles from North Fork of the Clinch river, with
eighty men. The rest of the army were mnstered out of service.
Captain Martin immiHliately l)egan the march to the Rye Cove.
Upon this march he had to pass through a very dangerous gap,
called Little IMocca^in, where the trail went through a very nar-
row and deep gorge of the mountain and where the Indians had
killed a great many white people. When Captain Martin began
the march through the gap, he had his men in fine order and
strung out in smgle file. Just as the head of the column
emerged from the narrow defile, the whole column was fired upon
by Indians from the top of the ridge, where they were strung out
in a line as long as Captain Martin's. As soon as the Indians
fired, they ran off, having failed to kill any of Martin's men
But one man, James Bunch, a member of Martin's company,
had five balls shot through his flesh, whereby he was rendered
incapable of getting a livelihood hy labor, and was allowed by
the General Assembly of Virginia thirty pounds for his pres-
ent relief and half pay as a soldier for three years.
The Indians liaving all fled, Captain Martin proceeded to Eye
Cove, where he remained until the first of May, 1777, when he
was ordered back to the Long Island, where he remained until
the treaty of peace was concluded between the Indians and the
whites on July the first.
In December of the year 1776, the commanding officer at
Fort Patrick Henry dispatched Samuel Newell and another per-
son tO' the Cherokee town for the Indian chief, the Eaven of
Chote. Upon their return trip they were accompanied by the
Indian chief.
A short time thereafter, in the month pf January, 1777,
Samuel Newell was again ordered to tlie Indian town, Chote,
Avith letters in regard to a family that liad been murdered near
Fort Patrick Henry. AVhile on, his way to the town of Toquo,
he was tomahawked l)y the Indians and scalped, and soon there-
after died in the town of Chote. His horse, gun, saddle and
bridle, saddle-bags and clotlies were carried off by the Indians,
who murdered him.
A number of the citizens of Fincastle county potitioned the
General Assembly of Virginia for compensation for pasturage
Southwest Virginia, 1746-178G. 347
taken and the provisions nsed by Colonel Oliristian upon this
expedition, among the number so petitioning being
Amos Eaton, John Latham,
James Kincannon Evan Shelby,
David Getgood, ±\hel Eichardson,
John Beatie, James McGavock,
AVilliam Sayers, James Aylett,
Ephraim Dunlop, Robert Barnett,
William Cocke,
The General Assembly of Virginia at its fall sassion in 1776,
allowed Isaac Thomas, the faithful friend of the white settlers,
one hundred pounds as a reward for the services he had rendered
the settlers by giving them information of the intended incur-
sions of the Indians, and paid him for the stock and property
lost at the time of the outbreak ol the Indian war.
The Governor and Council of Virginia directed that for the
purpose of concluding a treaty of peace between the Indians and
the Commonwealth of Virginia a convention should be held at
tlie Long Island of Holston, in the month of May, 1777, and
appointed Colonel William Christian, Colonel William' Preston
and Major Evan Shelby to act as the Virginia commissioners at
said convention. The Governor and Council of ISTorth Carolina
appointed Waightstill x\very, Joseph Winston and Eobert
Lanier, commissioners upon the part of North Carolina at said
convention. The commissioners of the two States met the Indian
chiefs, who had been assembled through the efforts of Nathaniel
Gist, at the Long Island in May, 1777, and drafted a treaty,
which treaty was submitted to the Goivernor and Oouncil of
Virginia on May 28, 1777, at which time the Council entered
the following orders :
"Having referred to the Governor of this board to direct a
treaty l>egun with the Cherokee Indians in such manner as they
think best,
"Eesolved, That the Governor be desired to confer with the
C*herokee chiefs and warriors, from time to time during their
said meeting, on the subject of all disputes now subsisting
between them and this State, and in regard to the treaty of peace
now under consideration, and if he receive any proposals to
248 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
make a good and proper answer to them, preparatory to com-
pletion, the conference to be held at the Great Island on twO'
days next month, and this board will attend at such conference
as may be appointed, and that Dr. Walker and Colonel Christian
1)0 desired to provide from the public store, or, in their place,
proper presents to be made to the Indians now here and consider
what is necessary to provide for the Indians at the next meeting
at the Great Island.
"Adjourned at 10 o'clock.
- ''Jolm Page, Tho. Walker,
"Dudley Diggs, Nathaniel Harrison,
"John Blair, David Jamison,
"Bartho Dandridge.
"Colonel William Christian, one of the commissioners ap-
pointed on behalf of this State to form a treaty of peace with
the Cherokee Indians, having attended this board with the pro-
ceedings of himself and the other commissioners at a treaty held
at the Great Island, in consequence of their former instructions,
upon considering the same the board entirely appro^ved thereof,
and think it necessary that the same should be laid before the
General Assembly, which the Governor is desired to do, and Col-
onel William Christian having also iniormed the board that
several of the chiefs and warrioTS of said nation of Indians will
accompany him to Williamsburg, resolved that they be received
and treated in the most friendly manner and furnished with all
necessaries until the General Assembly shall give further direc-
tions in the matter."
This treaty was not concluded until the first day of July, 1777.
By this treaty a new boundary line was established between the
settlers and the Indians. The boundaries as fixed by this treaty
extended as far down as the mouth of Cloud's creek. This treaty
was signed by all the Indian chiefs except Dragging Canoe, who
was woimded at the battle of Long Island Flats. He said "that he
would hold fast to the talks of Cameron the British agent and
continue the war as before." While the treaty was being nego-
tiated two men were murdered on the Clinch river by Dragging
Canoe and some of his men, and conduct of this character was
continued for many years on the part of Dragging Canoe and the
Chickamauga Indians.
Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786. 249
While this treaty was being negotiated a great many Indians,
with their squaws and children, had collected and were quartered
in the island, surrounded by a guard to prevent improper inter-
course with the whites, but, notwithstanding this precaut^ion,
some abandoned fellow shot across the river and killed an Indian.
This produced great confusion; the Indians thought they were
betrayed and prepared to fly, and it was with much exertion that
the officers and commissioners pacified and convinced them that
such was not the fact. Afterwards, when the Council met, the
Raven opened the conference on the part of his people by a speech
in which he reverted to the case of the murdered Indian. He
said, "lest that unhappy affair should disturb the harmony and
sincerity that ought to exist at that time between the white and
red brethren, each party ought to view it as having happened so
long ago, that if, when the Indian was buried, an acorn had been
thrown into his grave, it would have sprouted and grown and
become a lofty spreading oak, sufficiently large for them to sit
under its shade and hold their talk.
This speech was thought by many to be equal to anything in
the celebrated speech of Logan.
From the fall of 1775 to the close of the Eevolutionary war,
the settlers in this part of Virginia were compelled to occupy
their forts from early spring until late in the fall, as their settle-
ments were constantly visited by bands of Cherokee and Shaw-
nese Indians sent upon them by the British agents, but the settle-
ments enjoyed perfect freedom from the Indians from the first
appearance of winter until the return of spring. During this
interval of time the Indians were deterred from making raids
into the settlements, by the great danger of detection in conse-
quence of the nakedness of the trees, by the danger of being
traced by their tracks in the snow, and by the suffering pro-
duced by exposure to cold while traveling and lying in wait. The
settlers took advantage of this immunity from attacks by the
Indians, cleared their lands, built their houses and made everv
possible preparation for their crops during the coming season.
During the summer of 1776, elections were held throughout
the Commonwealth for members of the House of Delegates and
the Senate under the new Constitution. At this election the fol-
lowing persons were elected members of the House of Delegates
850 So'ulliwcfit Virginia, ] 746-] 786.
From Fincat^tle county : Arthur Campbell and William Eussell.
And the member of the Senate from Botetourt and Fincastle,
I hat being the Tenth Senatorial District, was Colonel William
Christian.
By an ordinance of the convention of 1775, adopted July 15,
1775, the Western District ^9.f Virginia, of which Fincastle county
'vas a part, was required^ to furnish sixty-eight expert .riflemen
for the regidar service.
And by an Act of the Asseml^ly of Virginia adopted in Octo-
l)er, 1776, a requisitioii of seventy-four men was made upon tlie
:uithorities of Fincastle county to be officered by a captain a})-
[)ointed by the Governor.
A First Lieutenant,
A Second Lieutenant,
and an Ensign.
The officers of the company organized in Fincastle county for
the continental service in the year 177{) cannot be ascertained,
save in one instance. «
John Buchanan was lieutenant of this company at its organ-
ization, and was a lieutenant in the Seventh Eegiment in the fall
of the same year, and remained in the service until killed in the
year 1777.
At a meeting of the General Asseml)ly of Virginia, in the fall
of the year 1770, a petition from the inhal)itants of the western
parts of Fincastle county was presented to the House and read ;
setting forth that they 1)ecame adventurers in that ])art of the
county in the year 1774, and were obliged by the incursions of
the Indians to abandon their settlements, after having discovered
and explored the coiintry ; that others afterwards became adven-
turers and claimed the lands liy warrants from Lord Dunmore,
under the royal proclamation of 17(53, and a company of men
from ISToTth Carolina purchased, or pretended to purchase, from
tlie Cherokee Indians, all the lands from the soaithernmost waters
of Cum'berland river to the banks of the Louisa river, including
the lands in Powell's Valley, by virtue of which purchase they
styled themselves the absolute proprietoi-s of the new independent
Trans3dvania ; that officers, both civil and military, are appointed,
writs of election issued, assemblies convened, a land office opened,
and lands sold at an exorl)itant price, and a system of policy
Southtvest Virginia, 17J^6-17S6. 251
introduced, not agreeing with that lately adopted b}' the late
United Colonies, and that they have the greatest reason tO' ques-
tion the validity of the purchase aforesaid; that they consider
themselves and the said lands to be in the State of Virginia,
whose legislature they acknowledge, and to which State they con-
ceive they justly belong; that having assembled together after
due notice, they elected two members to represent them in this
House, and hope they may be received as their delegates; that
they are ready and willing, to the utmost of their abilities, to
assist in the support of the present laudable cause, by contri])ut-
ing their quota of men and moneys, and that in order to pre-
serve goO'd order, tliey had, as was done in West Augusta, elected
a committee consisting of twenty-one members, and cheerfully
submitted the case to the House. This petition of the inhabi-
tants of that part of Fincastle county, now included within the
State of Kentucky, was accompanied by petitions from nearly
all the settlers on the Holston and Clinch rivers, and was pre-
sented to the General Assembly on the eighth day of October,
1776, and the General Assembly on Friday, October 11, 1776,
adopted the folloMdng resolutions :
"Eesolved, That the inhabitants of the western part of Fincas-
tle county not being allowed by the law a distinct representation
in the General Assembly, the delegates chosen to represent them
in this House cannot be admitted. At the same time the com-
mittee are of opinion, that the said inha])itants ought to be
formed into a distinct county, in order to entitle them to sucli
representation and other l)enefits ot government."
The petition for the division of Fincastle county was referred /
to a committee of which Carter Braxton was chairman, whicli '
committee, through its chairman, on Tuesday, October 15, 1776,
presented a bill foT the division of the county of Fincastle into
two distinct counties, which bill was read the first time and
ordered to be read the second time. On Wednesday, October 16,
1776, this bill was read a second time and was committed to
Thomas Jefferson and the members from Augusta and Botetourt
counties, and on October 17, 1776, Mr. Jefferson, from the com-
mittee to whom the bill for dividing the county of Fincastle into
two distinct counties was committed, reported that the com-
mittee had gone through the bill and made several amendments
252 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
thereto, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in
at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice read and
agreed to and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
And, on Wednesday, October 30, 177G, this bill was ordered to be
committed to Mr. Jefferson, Mr. SimnLS, Mr. Bullitt and the
members from Fincastle, Augusta and Botetourt counties, and on
November 19, 177G, Mr. Mason and the members from Frederick,
Hampshire and Bedford counties were added to the committee,
to whom the bill for dividing the county of Fincastle into two
distinct counties was committed. And on Monday, November
26, 1776, the bill for dividing the county of Fincastle into three
distinct counties was read a third time, and it was:
"Eesolved, That the said bill do pass, and that the title be, an
Act for dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct coun-
ties, and the parish of Botetourt intO' four distinct parishes, and
Mr. Arthur Campbell was appointed to carry the same to the
Senate for their concurrence.
In the Senate, several amendments were proposed to the bill
passed by the House, which amendments, being communicated
to the House, were disagreed to', whereupon, the Senate com-
municated with the House, through Mr. Ellzey, as follows :
"Mr. Speaker :
"The Senate do insist on the amendments by them proposed
to the bill entitled. An Act for Dividing the County of Fincastle
into three distinct coamties, and the parish of Botetourt into four
distinct parishes. And upon the amendments being again read,
it was, by the House of Delegates,
"Resolved, That this House do recede from their disagree-
ment to the said amendments proposed by the Senate, which
action of the House having been communicated to the Senate, the
Senate insisted on the amendments proposed to the bill by them,
whereupon, the Virginia House of Delegates, on December 6,
1776,
"Resolved, That this House do insist on the disagreement to
said amendments, and that Mr. Campbell do acquaint the Sen-
ate therewith."
Which resolution being communicated to the Senate, the Act
i for the dividing of the county of Fincastle into three distinct
counties, and the parish of Botetourt into four distinct parishes,
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786. 353
was adopted, the Senate having receded from the amendments
proposed by them.
This act provided that from and after the 31st day of Decem-
ber, 1776, the connty of Pincastle shall be divided into three
distinct counties, to be known by the names of Montgomery,
Washington and Kentucky.
Thus ends tJie history of Fincastle county, in so far as the
history of that county forms a part of the history of Washing-
ton county.
254 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
CHAPTEE VII.
WASHINGTOX COUNTY, 1 777-1 78G.
The Act of the General Assembl}^ of A^irginia dividing the
county of Fincastle into three distinct counties, to-wit: Mont-
gomer}', Washington, and Kentucky, was adopted by the General
Assembly of Virginia on the 6th day of December, 1770, and pro-
vided that from and after the last day of December, 177G, the
said county of Fincastle should be divided into three counties.
And this Act defines the bounds of Washington county as follows,
viz. : "That all that part of said county of Fincastle included in
the lines beginning at the Cumberland mountains where the line
of Kentucky county intersects the North Carolina (now Tennes-
see) line; thence east along the said Carolina line to the top of
Iron mountain; tJience along the same easterly to the source or
the South Fork of the Holston river; thence northwardly alone
the highest part of the highlands, ridges and mountains that di-
vide the waters of the Tennessee from those of the Great Ka-
nawha to the most easterly source of Clinch river; thence west-
wardly along the top of the mountain that divides the waters of the
Clinch river from those of the Great Kanawha and Sandy Creek
to the line of Kentucky county, and thence along the same
to the beginning, shall be one other distinct county and called and
known by the name of Washington.*
"The eastern boundary of Washington county as thus defined was
altered by Act of the General Assembly of Virginia at its session
in the month of IMay, 1777, as follows: Beginning at a ford on
Holston river, next above Captain John Campbell's, at the Eoyal
Oak, and rimning from thence a due south course to the dividing
line between the States of Virginia and North Carolina ; and
from the ford aforesaid to the westerly end of Morris' Knob, about
three miles above Maiden Spring on Clinch, and from thence, by
a line to be drawn due north, until it shall intersect the waters of
the Great Sandy river."
The Act estal)lishing the county of Washington directed tlmt the
*Hening statutes, 1776.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 255
justices named in the commissions of the peace for the said
county shouki meet at Black's Fort, in said county, on the last
Tuesday in January, 1777, which day in each month was desig-
nated l)v said Act as County Court day, and a majority of the
justices .-_;o commissioned were authorized to designate tJie place
for holding said court and to elect a clerk for said court.
The power to appoint the first sheriff of the county was vested
in the (loA'ernor.
The territory included within the county of Washington as
thus established is now embraced in the following counties :
Washington, Tazewell,
Russell, Lee,
Scott, Buchanan,
Smyth, Dickenson,
Wise,
a territory sufficient in extent and wealth to constitute a great
State.
Governor Patrick Henry, on the 21st day of December, 1776, is-
sued a commission of the peace and dedimus for Washington
county appointing the following persons as justices of the peace
for said county :
Arthur Campbell, William Edmiston,
Evan Shelby, Joseph Martin,
James Dysart, John Campbell,
John Anderson, Alexander Buchanan,
John Coulter, John Kinkead,
William Campbell, James Montgomery,
Daniel Smith, John Snoddy,
George Blackburn and Thomas Mastin,
and on the same day he issued his commission appointing the fol-
lowing officers f-or the said county :
Sheriff — James Dysart,
County Lieutenant — Arthur Campbell,
Colonel — Evan Shelby,
Lieutenant-Colonel — William Campbell,
IMajor — Daniel Smith.
The first court of said county assembled at Black's Fort (now
Abingdon) on the last Tuesday in January, 1777, being the 28th
256 Southwest Yirgima, 1746-1786.
(lay of that month, pursuant to the Act of the Assembly establish-
ing the county, on which day William Campbell and Joseph Mar-
tin, two of the justices commissioned by the Governor, adminis-
tered the oath of a justice of the peace and of a justice of tlie
County Court in Chancery to Arthur Campbell, the first justice
named in said commission, and he afterwards administered the
aforesaid oaths to :
William Campbell, William Edmiston,
John Campbell, Joseph Martin,
John Kinkead, John Anderson,^
James Montgomery, John Snoddy,
and George Blackburn.
The court thus assembled, constituting a majority of the jus-
tices commissioned by the Governor, proceeded to the election o'
a clerk, when David Campbell was elected clerk.
At the time Washington county was established by law Colo-
nel Arthur Campbell and Colonel William Eussell represented
Fincastle county in the House of Delegates, and Colonel William
Christian represented the district in the Senate of Virgiinia.
Colonel Campbell andj Colonel Eussell resided in that portion of
Fincastle county afterwards included in the bounds of W^ashington
county. Colonel Russell and Colonel Christian had served with
General Washington in the Continental Armyf while Colonel
Arthur Campbell had been a member of the Convention that
adopted the Constitution establishing the Co^mmonwealth of A^ir-
ginia, which Convention elected General George Washington a
member of the Continental Congress which assembled in Philadcl-
\)hm in 1776. It is not definitely known who suggested the name
of Washington for the new county; and while the question is 'n
doubt, still it is reasonable to suppose that Colonel Arthur Camp-
bell was the author of the idea, as it appears from the proceedings*
of the House of Delegates that he was designated by the House to
convey the information to the Senate of Virginia that the House
had passed the Act establishing the county.
But without regard to who suggested the name for the new
county it is a fact that this is the first locality in the United States
that was honored with the name of the "Father of Our Country."
The Act establishing the new county was agreed to by the general
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 257
Assembly of Virginia on December 6, 1776, and the county gov- .
ernment was organized on January 28, 1777.
Tennessee and N^orth Carolina historians insist that Washington
county, Tennessee, was the first locality in the Union to receive
the name of Washington, but, by an examination of the North
Carolina records, it will be ascertained that Wasliington district?,
North Carolina (now Tennessee), was not mentioned until April,
1777, and the county of Washington, North. Carolina (now Ten-
nessee), was not established by the G-eneral Assembly of Nortli
Carolina until November, 1777.
Black's Fort, the locality of the meeting of the first court of
Washington county, was erected in the year 1776 on the lands of
Captain Joseph Black, on the west bank or near the west banl:
of what was then known as Eighteen Miles Creek, alias Castle's
Creek, by the settlers living in the vicinity, and about five hun-
dred other settlers who hg,d fled from their homes west of Abing-
don iipon the outbreak of the Indian War in 1776. It was one
of those rude structures which the pioneers were accustomed
to make for defence against the Indians, consisting of a few
log cabins surrounded by a stockade. The locality of this fort was
about twenty-five yards south of the Norfolk and Western rail-
road, in the Knob road, and near the brick cottage, the property
of Charles F. Palmer.
In the fall of the year 1879, Captain Frank S. Findlay, while
excavating for a place for a turbine wheel near this place, discov-
ered a portion of an old wall constructed of rock and logs some five
or six feet below the surface, and in the wall was found an arrow
made from the heart of a white oak, with a sharp iron spike af-
fixed. This wall was a part, of the old fort, and it is not improb-
able that this arrow was sped there by an Indian. In the year 1796
a mill dam was erected about fifty yards south of this old wall.*
The first court of Washington county was in session two days,
January 28th-29th. The first day of the term was occupied in
qualifying the members of the court, the election of a clerk, the
qualifications of militia officers, as above given, and the granting
of letters of administration in several cases. Upon the second day
of the term the first matter of importance that received the atten-
tion of the court was the appointment of William Campbell, Wil-
*Black's Mill Dam.
258 Southwest Vinjinia, 17Jff>-17SG.
liain Edmiston, John Anderson and George Blaekhnrn as com-
missioners to hire wagons to luring up the county salt allowed
by the Governor and Council, and to receive and distribute the
same agreeably to said order of Council.
Some ]x^o])k', in speaking of this order of the County Court,
have expressed surprise that such an order should have been en-
tered by the court of a county in which was located great beds of
salt, and, further, tliat the Governor and Council thus allotted
salt to this county.
At the time this order was entered salt was a rare article and
exceedingly valualile, and was not known to exist in this country.
So difficult was it to supply the demands for salt that in the year
177G the General Assembly of A^irginia enacted the following law :
"Resolved that the Governor, with the advice of the Privy Coun-
cil, be empowered tO' purchase, on account of the public and at a
generous price, all the salt that may be imported into this coun-
try in the course of the next six months, and that he be authorized
to issue his warrant on the treasurer to pay for the same: that
such salt when purchased be immediately stored in some convenient
and secure parts of the country, and distributed by order of the
Governor, with the advice of the Council, amongst the inhabi-
tants of the different counties, im such proportion as their exi-
gencies and the quantity procured may admit, regard being prin-
cipally had to such counties as are farthest removed from salt
water; and that the receivers of the salt do pay into the hands
of such persons as may be appointed for that purpose, at the time
of the delivery, so much per Inishel, as the Governor, with the advice
of the Council, may judge reasonable ; the money when received ^o
be paid with all convenient dispatch into the treasur}^ for reim-
bursing the publick."
It was pursuant to the order of the Governor and Council, acting
upon the authority of this act, that the commissioners were
appointed. On the second day the court proceeded to appoint a
number of officers to take a list of tithables and of the quantity of
taxable lands in the county.
The following commissioners were appointed by tlie court to
do this work in the localities mentioned, to-wit:
Joseph Martin, on north side Clinch mountain, high as Glade
Hollow. John Kinkead, Glade Hollow to head of Clinch. John
Washington County, 1777-1870. 25D
Campbell, head of Holston to Stalnaker's direct across. William
Edmiston, Stalnaker's to Black's Fort, direct across. James Mont-
gomery, Black's Fort to Major Bledsoe's. John Anderson, from
Major Bledsoe's as low as there are settlers. At the same time
the court appointed the following constables : Rawley Duncan,
from Castle's Woods to lowest settlement. James Wharton, Castle's
Woods to Glade Hollow. James Laughlin, Glade Hollow, to upper
settlement Elk Garden. William Lean, head of Holston to Seven-
Mile Ford. Robert Brown, Seven-Mile Ford to Eleven-Mile Creek.
Christopher Acklin, Eleven-Mile Creek to Ford of Beaver Creek.
John Fain, Eleven-Mile Creek to Sinking Creek. James Steel,
Ford Beaver Creek to Amos Eaton's. At the same time the fol-
lowing surveyors of roads were appointed : Alexander Wylie, from
county line to Charles Hayes. John Hays, from Charles Hays' to
Mill Creek. Jacob Anderson,^ from Mill Creek to Seven-Mile Ford.
Aaron Lewis, Seven-Mile Ford to Big Spring. Andrew Kincan-
non from Big Spring to James Kincannon's. James Bryan, from
James Kincannon's to Joseph Black's. Andrew Colvill, from
Joseph Black's to Ford Beaver Creek. Benjamin Gray, Ford Bea-
ver Creek to Steel's Creek. David Steel, from Steel's Creek to
the meeting house. Amos Eaton, from meeting house to Fort
Patrick Henry. Thomas Berry, Watauga Road, James Bryan's to
James Montgomery's. William Young, Captain Montgomery's to
Isaac Riddle's. John Cox, Isaac Riddle's to Ford of Holston.
The names as above given and the localities assigned to each are
important in this, that they definitely indicate the established
roads in the county at the beginning of our local government, and
define, with reasonable certainty, the extent of the settlements at
that time. Many readers will be surprised to know that the Vir-
ginia authorities appointed officials and exercised jurisdiction over
the country (now Tennessee), as low down as Fort Patrick Henry,
thirty miles below Bristol. The explanation is that our people
supposed the Holston river to be the dividing line between the two
States, Virginia and North Carolina. At this time and for several
years thereafter, Virginia exercised jurisdiction, collected taxes
and gave protection to the settlers as low down as Carter's Valley
in Tennessee.
On the second day of the court, Isaac Shelby, Robert Craig, John
Dunkin and John Adair, were recommended to the Governor as
260 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
proper persons to be added to the Commission of the Peace for the
connty, and they were commissioned accordingly. On the same
day the court recommended to Edmnnd Eandolph, Attorney for
the Commonwealth, Ephraim Dunlop, as a proper person to act
as Deputy Attorney for the Commonwealth in this connty, and he
was commissioned accordingly, and became the first practising
attorney for the Commonwealth in this connty.
On the same day the conrt ordered that the house adjoining that
whicli tlie court is held in, be a prison, and that the sheriff be
empowered to employ some person to put it in the best repair he
can."
The statement has been made by a very worthy citizen of Wash-
ington county of former days,* "that the first court of this connty
assembled in a grove on the hillside south of Greenway's store, but
in view of the above order of the court, this statement is inaccu-
rate, as the court was held within the stockade of Black's Fort, and
the house designated as a prison was within the same stockade.
At the time in question, the courts of the country undertook to
regulate the private affairs of the citizens to a much greater extent
than at the present time, which can be accoimted for by the fact
that our people had just shaken off the heavy hand of monarchy
and established, for the first time, constitutional government.
As an example of the extent to which the private concerns of the
people were then regulated by government, the court of this county,
on the second day of its term, fixed the price of liquors as follows :
Eum, 16s. per gallon ; Eye whiskey, 8s. ; corn whiskey, 4s. ; a bowl of
rum toddy, with loaf sugar, 2s., with brown sugar Is.
And at the March term, 1779, it fixed the price of a warm din-
ner at 15s.; cold dinner, 9s.; for a good breakfast, 12s.; oats or
corn at 4s. per gallon; good lodging with clean sheets, 2s. Stab-
blidge, with hay or fodder, 2s., and good pasturage the same.
After the transaction of considerable business, on the afternoon
of the 29th day of January, 1777, the first court of the county
adjourned, to court in course, which was the last Tuesday in Feb-
ruary, being the 25th day of that month, on which day the court
assembled at Black's Fort, with several members present. The first
business of importance transacted was the qualification of Luke
Bowyer to practice as an attorney in this court, and, thereupon.
*Charle3 B.. Coale.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 261
the court proceeded to the examination of Edward Bond, on suspi-
cion of his having murdered Thomas Jones. The court heard the
evidence and acquitted the prisoner. On the following day the
court proceeded to the examination of the same Edward Bond,
upon suspicion of his having stolen a small bay mare of the value
of fifteen pounds, and upon a hearing of the evidence against him,
he was held for trial at the General Court, at the capitol in the
city of Williamsburg."
The student of our early history must be impressed with thi^5
fact, that our forefathers would give to the prisoner charged with
murder the benefit of every reasonable doubt, while, on the other
band, they would give the prisoner charged with horse-stealing, the
maximum punishment prescribed by law, if there existed against
him a strong suspicion.
On the 26th day of February, 1777, the court proceeded to recom-
mend to the Governor of Virginia the militia officers for Wash-
ington county, which officers were duly commissioned and were
as follows:
Captains :
William Edmiston, John Campbell, Royal Oak;
Joseph Martin, John Shelby, Sr. ;
James Montgomery, Eobert Buchanan, Sr,,
Aaron Lewis, John Duncan,
Gilbert Christian, James Shelby,
James Dysart, Thomas Mastin,
John Campbell, John Kinkead,
V John Anderson, William Bowen,
George Adams, Eobert Craig,
Andrew Colvill, James Eobertson, Watauga.
Ijieutenants of Militia :
David Beattie, James Maxwell,
Samuel Hays, John Snoddy,
David Ward, John Coulter,
Thomas Price, Eoger Topp,
George Freeland, John Anderson,
James Fulkerson, George Maxwell,
John Berry, William Blackburn,
Charles Campbell, Andrew Kincannon,
262 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
Lieutenants of Militia — Con.
John Frazier, C!harles Allison,
Alexander Wylie, Joseph Black.
Ensigns of Militia:
Thomas Whitten, Eees Bowen,
Solomon Litton, Henry Dickenson,
Abraham McClelland, William Eosebrough,
John Loony, Josiah Eamsey,
James Elliott, William Young,
John Davis, William Casey,
John Wilson, John Lowry,
James Shaw, William ISTeal,
James Crabtree, Arthur Bowen,
Eobert Davis, Alexander Barnett.
Colonel Arthur Campbell, immediately upon his qualification as
county lieutenant of Washington coointy, proceeded to organize the
militia of the county, and place the same upon such footing as they
would be able to repel any attack that might be made upon the set-
tlers on the frontiers, the most exposed part of which was in Car-
ter's Valley and the Watauga settlement in the vicinity of Eliza-
bethton, Tennessee.
On the 31st day of March, 1777, he requested James Eobertson,
a captain in the militia of this county, residing at Watauga to fur-
nish him with a list of the settlers at Watauga, that he might loiow
their strength and give such orders as were necessary for their pro-
tection. Captain Eobertson furnished the list, whereupon Colonel
Campbell, in view of the danger in which the settlements stood,
directed Eobertson to assemble the settlers in one or two places,
and he recommended Eice's and Patterson's Mills as the most pro-
per ones. "Let yoair company be at Eice's," said he, "and Captain
Gilbert Christian may come to Patterson's Mill."
There was to have been a complete suspension of hostilities
between the Cherokee Indians and the white settlers, from the
return of Colonel Christian, in the fall of 1776, until the month
of May, 1777, the time set for the negotiation of a treaty at Long
Island. Notwithstanding the fact that the Indians had agreed to
a suspension of hostilities, and that there were four hundred
soldiers stationed at Long Island, under the command of Colonel
Washington County, 1777-1870. 263
Evan Shelby and Major Anthony Bledsoe, numerous hostilities
were committed by the Indians. Several murders were committed
on the frontiers, and on the 10th of April, 1777, James Calvatt was
shot and scali3ed. The Indians who killed Calvatt were pursued
by Captain James Eobertson and nine men, who killed one Indian
and retook ten horses, but, upon his return from the pursuit of the
Indians, he and his men were attacked by a party of Creeks and
Cherokees, who wounded two of his men and forced him to retreat.
At the same time two men were killed on Clinch river, and it
developed that the Indians had numerous parties out murdering
and plundering whenever possible. The Indians put the blame of
this trouble upon Dragging Canoe, the Indian chief, who, upon
receiving a wound at the battle of Long Island Flats, on July 20,
1776, had retired to the Chickamauga country and refused to
talk of peace.
In the spring of the year 1777, pursuant to the provisions of the
Constitution of the Commonwealtli of Virginia, an election was held
for members of the G-eneral Assembly from Washington county,
at which election Arthur Campbell and William Edmiston were
opposed by Anthony Bledsoe and William Cocke.
The qualification of electors voting at said election was as fol-
lows: "Every free white man, who, at the time of the election,
shall have been for one year preceding, in possession of twenty-
five acres of land with a house and plantation thereon, or one hun-
dred acres of land without a house and plantation thereon, and
having right for an estate for life, at least, in the said land, in
his O'Wn right or in the right of his wife, was entitled to a vote."
This election was hotly contested and resulted in favor of
Anthony Bledsoe and William Cocke, two gentlemen who after-
wards became distinguished in the history of Tennessee, William
Cocke being one of the two United States Senatoi-s elected to repre-
sent the State of Tennessee, at the date of its formation, in the
Senate of the United States.
Colonel Arthur Campbell and Captain William Edmiston, on the
20th day of May, 1777, filed a petition with the House of Dele-
gates of Virginia, setting forth that the petitioners, with Anthony
Bledsoe and William Cocke, were candidates at the last election of
delegates for the county of Washington; that on the close of the
poll it appeared that the greatest number of votes taken were in
264 Southwest Virginia, 174G-17SG.
favor of Anthony Bledsoe and William Cocke, owing, as they con-
ceive, to many votes being given in by persons who reside in North
Carolina and by others not entitled to vote ; that they apprehend the
said Bledsoe is incapable of sitting as a member of the legislature,
he having a military command which excluded him by the consti-
tution; tliat the said Cocke is not possessed of such landed prop-
erty in the county as is required by law, not to mention some
instances of bribery and corruption practised contrary to the spirit
of the present government; that these matters give dissatisfaction
to what they believe to be a majority of the legal electors in the
said county; and submitting themselves to such determination as
shall be thought reasonable and just. Thus our county was hon-
ored by a contested election in the dawn of its history, which must
have excited a good deal of feeling among the pioneers of the Hols-
ton and the Clinch.
During the same session of the General Assembly, Mr. Banister,
chairman of the Committee on Privileges and Elections, reported
toi the legislature that the committee had agreed upon a report and
had comie to several resolutions thereupon, which they had directed
him to report to the House. Having read the report in his
place, he afterwards delivered it in at the clerk's table, where
the same was read and was as foHoweth — viz. :
"As to the first charge contained in the said petition against the
sitting members, as not having a greater number of legal votes than
the petitioners, it appears to your committee, from a certificate of
tlie sheriff of the county of Washington, that upon the close of the
poll, the number of the voters stood as follows — to-wit:
For Mr. Anthony Bledsoe 297
For Mr. William Cocke ?: 294
For Mr. Arthur Campbell 211
For Mr. William Edmiston 144
It also appears to your committee by a line run by Colonel John
Donaldson between this State and North Carolina, as far as the
Holston river, that should it be continued in the same latitude to
where it would intersect the north fork of Holston river, a consider-
able number of those who voted for the sitting members would be
left in North Carolina, and if allowed the right of suffrage in
the said county of Washington, would give them the greatest num-
ber of legal votes.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 265
It farther appears to your committee, from the information of
Thomas Walker, Esq., that from the most accurate observations he
has been able to make, the Great Island on the Holston river lies
in this State, and that, shonld a direct line rnn from where the
said Donaldson's terminated to the said island, the greater number
of voters living in the bend of Holston river would be taken into
the county of Washington, and that such' line would in many places
intersect the river.
It appears to your committee from the information of Colonel
William Christian that he brought a writ of ejectment in the
County Court of Fincastle for a tract of land lying near the Hol-
ston river, between the Great Island and the termination of Don-
aldson's line ; that the person who was in possession of the land and
defended the suit, pleaded to the jurisdiction of the court, which
was overruled and he obtained a judgment.
It farther appears to your committee, from the testimony of
James Thompson, that he acted as sheriff in the county formerly
Fincastle in the years 1774 and 1775, during which time he col-
lected levies and taxes from those people who reside on the north
side of the Holston river as low down as within about six miles of
the great island, which was esteemed the reputed bounds of Vir-
ginia. As to the second article of charge contained in the petition
touching Mr. Bledsoe's holding a military command, it appears
to 3'-our committee that Mr. Bledsoe holds no other commission
than that of a major in the militia.
As to the article of charge against Mr. Cocke, as not being a land-
holder and resident in the said county of Washington, it appears
to your committee, from the testimony of James Thompson and
John Montgomer3^ that Mr. Cocke was possessed, under a survey,
of more than one hundred acres of land for one year preceding
the election, hath resided in the county formerly Fincastle, with
a family, several years, until some time in February last, when
Mr. Cocke moved part of his family out of the country for fear
of an Indian war, but continues there himself the greater part of
his time.
That the said John Montgomery was present when the poll was
closed and heard the sheriff proclaim the sitting members duly
elected.
As to the last article of charge respecting the bribery and cor-
266 Southwest Virginia, 171,6-1786.
ruption, it appears to your committee to be groundless. Whereupon
your committee came to the following resolutions :
Resolved, as the opinion of this committee, That the said
Anthony Bledsoe and William Cocke were duly elected to serve as
delegates in this present General Assembly for the county of Wash-
ington.
The said resolutions being severally read a second time, were,
upon the question severally put thereupon, agreed tO' by the House."*
While the people of Washington county, Virginia, may feel some
pride in knowing that our people explored East Tennessee and
furnished the rule of action by which her early settlers were gov-
erned, on the other hand East Tennesseeans will find pride in the
fact that they furnished Washington county, Virginia, her first
representatives in the Assembly of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
This election was held at Black's Port, the county seat of Wash-
ington county, and every elector in the county was required to
attend and cast his vote in person, under a penalty, and we may
well imagine what a busy appearance the neighborhood of Black's
Fort presented that day, 946 men from Powell's Valley, Clinch
Valley, Holston, Carter's Valley and Watauga, Tennessee.
On the 29th day of April, 1777, the ancestor of a great many
people whose names have been honorably associated with the his-
tory of Washington county ^appeared in court. He was not a
stranger to this section, nor was he a stranger to the members of
that court. He had long been a deputy surveyor, under William
Preston, surveyor of Fincastle county, and had previously thereto
surveyed for the citizens of Holston large and numerous tracts
of land. His name was Eobert Preston, and on that day he pre-
sented to the court a commission from the masters of William and
Mary College, appointing him surveyor of Washington county.
The position of county surveyor was at that time, the most lucra-
tive position to be found in any of the counties and was much
sought after. William Preston, of Smithfield, as well as Robert
Preston, had long been actively engaged by Colonel James Patton
and the Tjoyal Tiand Company, in surveying and locating their
grants of one hundred and twenty thousand and eight hundred
thousand acres of land in Southwest Virginia. For this reason
they had incurred the displeasure of many of the people of South-
*Joxirnal House of Delegates, 1777.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 267
western Virginia, and particulaiiy that of Colonel Arthur Camp-
bell and his family, men who were ambitious and who felt it their
right to rule. Whether this was the reason for the action of the
court, or whether the reason is correctly stated in the order of
the court cannot be stated. The court entered the following order:
"Eobert Preston, Gent., produced a commission from the Mas-
ters of William and Mary College appointing him a surveyor of
Washington, and it is the opinion of the court that the same should
not be received, as it is issued by virtue of a prerogative from
the Crown of England."
If the order of this coiirt correctly stated the motive of the
court, there can be no question that the court detested the Crown
of England and everything emanating therefrom.
Eobert Preston appealed from this order of the County Court
of Washington county, to the General Court at Williamsburg,
which appeal was pending for some time, during which time, Eobert
Preston produced a surveyor's commission from the Masters of
William and Mary College, dated January 23, 1777, to the County
Court, ol this county, and desired to be qualified by the said court,
but his application was refused by the court, as there was an appeal
pending in the General Court for a refusal of the same character.
AVhile the appeal of Eobert Preston was pending in the General
Court, numerously signed petitions were presented to the General
Assembly of Virginia, praying that lx)dy to confer the power ol
selecting coamty surveyors upon the Coimty Courts of the several
counties, but Eobert Preston seemed to have the ear of government,
and all petitions were rejected.
I cannot say what disposition was made of the appeal of Eobert
Preston, but from an inspection of the records of the County Court
of this county, the following information is gathered : "Eobert
Preston, Gent., produced a commission from Thos. Jefferson, Gov.
of the Commonwealth of Virginia, being dated the 22nd day of
December, 1779, appointing him Surveyor of the County of Wash-
ington, and gave bond with James Dysart and Aaron Lewis, his
securities, in the sum of 20,000 pounds for the faithful discharge
of his oflfico and took the oath of office."
This office he filled until the year 1831, a little more than fifty-
one years. The bad feeling between thePreston and Campbell fam-
ilies continued for many years, during which time there was a
268 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
resort to arms. A duel was fought and a member of the Campbell
family wounded, but I am happy to say this feeling has long since
died out, and the two families for many years have been intimately
connected, socially and otherwise.
The settlers on the Plolston and Clinch, during the years 1776-
1777, had been greatly harassed by the invasion of the Indians,
and thereby prevented from making anything like a crop from their
lands. They had also been required to furnish supplies to Colonel
Christian and his army of two thousand men, upon their invasion
of the Cherokee country, and the country was thereby greatly
impoverished before the crops in the year 1777 were harvested.
The good citizens, the relatives and friends of the settlers, living
in Augusta county, contributed through Mr. Alexander St. Clair
considerable sums of money, and provisions, for the relief of the
settlers on the frontiers, and the County Court of this county,
besides entering the following order, directed Captain William
Campbell to have Mr. St. Clair to lay out the money in his hands
for wheat.
"Ordered that Joseph Martin, John Kinkead, John Coulter, Gil-
bert Christian, William Campbell and Thomas Mastin, who are
hereby appointed as commissioners to distribute the flour con-
tributed in Augusta county or elsewhere for the distressed inhabi-
tants of this county, and to hire wagons to bring the same to this
county."
This is the only instance save one, in the history of this county,
that outsiders have been called upon to contribute to the support
of the people of Washington county.
On the same day, the court entered an order appointing Eobert
Young, constable, from Amos Eaton's to Patterson's Mill, Castle-
ton Brooks, from Patterson's Mill to lowest settlements down the
river. These appointments were made to keep in touch with the
advancing settlements.
At a meeting of the court on the 30th day of April, 1777, it
was ''ordered that the court be held as soon as the courthouse can be
built, at the place formerly laid off for a town, upon the land given
to the county by the honorable Thomas Walker, Joseph Black and
Samuel Briggs.^' /
At the time of the organization of the'^ county. Dr. Thomas
Walker, Joseph Black and Samuel Briggs agreed to give one hun-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 269
dred and twenty acres of land in the coimty of Washington agree-
ably to a survey thereof made by Robert Doach for the purpose
of establishing a town thereon, and for raising a sum of money
towards defraying the expenses of building a courthouse and prison.
This offer was made by the gentlemen mentioned to the County
Court as an inducement to have them establish the coimty seat near
Black's Fort and adjoining their other lands.
Tradition says that the co^urt hesitated for sojn« time m making
a selection between Wolf Hills, (now Abiiigdon), and Shugarts-
ville, (now Green Spring).
From a perusal of the orders of the County Court, it appears
that a number of logs and other timber had been gathered at Mr.
Black's for the purpose of building a magazine when, on the 27th
day of August, 1777, the County Court ordered the sheriff to
employ some person or persons, upon the best terms he could, to
remove the logs and other timber at Mr. Black's for the purpose of
building a magazine, to some convenient place where the town
is to stand and there to be built for a courthouse."
"And likewise to build a prison fourteen feet square, with square
timber, twelve inches each way, and a good shingle roof," with
directions to line the side wall and under floor with two-inch plank,
and put nine iron spikes in each plank, six inches long in lieu of a
stone wall."
Pursuant to this order, the sheriff of the county let the contract
for the building of the county courthouse to Samuel Evans; to
Abraham Goodpasture, the building of a prison; to G. Martin, the
contract for making irons for criminals, and to Hugh Berry the
contract for making the nails to be used in the building of the
courthouse
The courthouse was built of logs and stood upon the lot occupied
by the present residence of Mrs. James W. Preston. The jail oi
prison (a fair description of which has been previously given), stood
on the lower end of the present courthouse lot, a short distance from
the street and north of the present courthouse.
On the 30th day of April, 1777, the County Court "ordered that
Arthur Campbell, William Campbell, Daniel Smith, Joseph Mar-
tin, William Edmiston, John Coulter and Eobert Craig, gents,
be appointed trustees to dispose of the land given to the county
by the Honorable Thomas Walker, Samuel Briggs^ and Joseph
270 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Black, and formerly laid off by Captain Robert Doach, and that
they or any four of them shall sell the same and apply the money
arising therefrom toward defraying the expenses of the publick
buildings in tJiis county."
Pursuant to this order of the court, the trustees therein named
employed John Coulter to lay off a part of the streets and alleys
of the proposed town, which service he performed and reported to
the court and received his pay therefor.
The time when the new courthouse was first occupied cannot
be definitely fixed, but must have been in the year 1778, and the
new prison was not used or occupied until the year 1779.
On the same day the court directed David Campbell, clerk, to
furnish blank books for keeping the public records, and ordered the
sheriff to summons twenty-four of the most capable freeholders to
serve as a grand jury, which grand jury met on the 27th day of
May, 1777, at Black's Fort, and made the following indictments —
to- wit :
Margaret Drummon for having a bastard child, and James
Bryan for not having the road in good repair he was surveyor of.
On the same day the court entered the following order :
"Ordered that it be certified that it is the opinion of the court,
that the field officers for Washington county be recommended to
His Excellency the Governor, to be continued and be in the office
they have been commissioned to by his Excellency, which appoint-
ments are approved of by the court of this county.
Major Anthony Bledsoe, upon his election as a member of the
Legislature of Virginia, resigned his position as major of the forces
stationed at Long Island and left for Richmond, and was suc-
ceeded by Captain William Russell.
Major Bledsoe and Captain Cocke expected, upon the assembling
of the legislature at Richmond, to have the pleasure of displacing
the militia officers of Washington county and filling their positions
with their friends and partizans, and Colonel Campbell, as a means
to disappoint Cocke and Bledsoe in the accomplishment of their
purpose, had the preceding order entered by the court of this
county, which action had the desired effect, and as a result of it
Cocke and Bledsoe preferred charges against Colonel Campbell,
which charges were heard and dismissed by the Governor and Coun-
cil, in the same year.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 371
The County Court during this year, upon motion of James
Dysart, sheriff of the county, permitted Joseph Black, James Eob-
erts and John King, to qualify as deputy sheriffs for this county,
and during the same year, permitted Eobert Campbell and John
Campbell to qualify as deputy clerks for said county.
During the early part of the year 1777, the court ordered the fol-
lowing roads opened and established : "A road from James Kin-
cannon's to William Kennedy's Mill. A road from Samuel Henry's
up the South Pork of Holston, the way viewed by Eobert Buchanan,
Alexander McISTutt and Eobert Edmiston, pursuant to the order
of the Fincastle court."
And, "on motion, John Anderson, Gilbert Christian, James
Elliott, James Fulkerson and William Eoberts, were appointed com-
missioners to view a road from George Blackburn's by James Ful-
kerson's to the forks of the path leading to Kentucky and the mouth
of Eeedy creek."
In the fall of this year, the following orders relating to the roads
of the county, were entered :
"Benjamin Gray and William Blackburn were appointed commis-
sioners to view and locate a road from the courthouse to Shoate's
Ford on Holston river on the 27th day of August, 1777, and the
report of the viewers establishing this road was confirmed by the
court on the 30th day of September, 1777.
Josiah Gamble, Thomas Berry and Adam Keer were appointed
commissioners to locate a road from the courthouse to Philip's Mill,
on the Watauga road, on the 27th of August, 1777 ; their report was
confirmed and the road established on the 30th day of September,
1777.
William Bowen, David Ward, Eees Bowen and James Fowler
were appointed commissioners to locate a road from the Eichlands
by Maiden's Spring to the gap of the Laurel Fork of the north
branch of Holston on the 30th day of September, 1777, and on
the same day, John Finley, John Fowler and Abraham Crabtree
were appointed commissioners to locate a road from said gap down
the valley to the head of Fifteen-Mile creek and on to the court-
house.
On the same day, Albert McClure, Thomas McCulloch and
Joseph Martin were appointed commissioners to view a road from
the foot of Clinch mountain where James Logan lived to the gap
273 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
O'f the moimtain opposite the head of Fifteen-Mile creek. Their
report was received and confirmed on the 18th day of March, 177S.
John Kinkead, Daniel Smith, Thomas Price and William Gil-
mer were appointed commissioners to locate a road from the
north side of Clinch mountain, over Clinch mountain, to Eobert
and James Logan's and Halbert McClure. Thomas McCulloch and
Joseph Martin were appointed commissioners to locate a road from
the foot of Clinch moimtain at James Logan's to the courthouse.
William Casey, Eobert Harrold and Samuel Staples were
appointed commissioners on the 36th day of November, 1777, to
locate a road from the mouth of Harrold's creek to the courthouse,
and on the same day, Francis Cooper, John Dunkin and James
Davis were appointed commissioners to locate a road from the
ISTorth Fork of Holston to the Castle's Woods road through Little
Moccasin Gap ; this last road was established by order of the court on
the 18th day of March, 1778.
We give this information in regard to the roads established in the
year 1777, as it is always of interest to the citizens to laiow the
time and circumstances attending the opening of our public roads.
The State authorities in the month of October, 1777, made a
requisition upon the authorities of Washington county for thirty-
three men for the continental service, which requisition was
promptly complied with.
During the summer of this year, all the western settlements were
visited, by numbers of Tories from the eastern portion of the State
and from the disaffected portions of North Carolina, and were
greatly troubled by their presence in this, that they usually joined
themselves in bands and traveled about through the settlements,
stealing horses and robbing the Whig sympathizers ; and O'ftentimes,
in accomplishing their purposes, committed the (>ffence_of murder,
and, from all appearances, in the fall of this ^ear it looked as if they
would be able to give the settlers a great deal of trouble, unless in
some manner restrained.
The people living on Holston undertook to restrain these Tory
sympathizers by a resort to the courts and by inflicting the punish-
ment prescribed by law, and, in so doing, Isaac Lebo, Jeremiah
Slaughter and William Houston were indicted, tried and convicted
for conduct and conversation evidencing a disposition inimical to
Washington County, 1777-1870. 273
the cause of America. Their goods were confis^ted_and they were
fined and imprisoned.
The British government had spies scattered throughout the
country, carrying messages between its officials ^nd the Indians
living to the south and west of the Holston settlements, and the
situation was fast becoming exceedingly precarious. One of these
spies was captured and punished by ColonerWilliam Campbell and
some of his friends, in this yeiir, when Colonel Campbell was return-
ing to his liome from preaching, in company with his wife and two
or three gentlemen. The circumstances were as follows: "When
Colonel Campbell had gotten within a few miles of home, he dis-
covered a man walking, with a little bundle on a stick thrown over
his shoulder. Wlien the man got within some hundred and fifty
yards of Campbell, he turned obliquely off from the road. As soon
as Campbell discovered this, he turned from the road in a direction
to intercept him. When the man discovered that he was about to
be intercepted by Campliell and his companions, he broke and ran
with all his might towards the river. The pursuers galloped after
liim and as there was no ford there they jumped off of their
horses and ran across the river and overtook their game in an ivy
cleft. Tliey carried him back to the road. When they got back
several other men fell in company with them. The spy, as I will
now call the m.an, was dressed very shabbily. Colonel Campbell
asked him why he turned from the road. The spy appeared very
silly and offered some flimsy excuse. Campbell propounded a great
many other questions to him. The fellow pretended to have very
little sense and said that he was a very poor man and was going
tO' the back settlements where there was plenty of land. From
the many questions Campbell proposed^ to the spy he became per-
fectly satisfied that he was a man of fine sense and under the dis-
guise of a fool. Campbell informed him that he believed him to
be a man engaged in some vile service and he must be searched,
to which the spy had no objection. His bundle was searched, in
which was found nothing but some old clothes. Campbell informed
him he must pull off all the clothes he had on and put on the suit
he had in his bundle. In his pocket they found a pass and some
other old papers, all badly written. Every part of his clothing was
examined very minutely, but nothing could be found. Campbell
remarked to the spy that he had a very good pair of shoes on and
374 SouihwesL Virginia, 17J^6-178G.
he believed he would examine them. He took out his pocket knife
and ripped off the bottom soles of the shoes, and under each of them
he found a letter written by the British commander, addressed to
V ' the King of the Cherokee Indians. The letters were written on
very fine paper and were enveloped in bladder so as to render them
water-proof. The Indians were informed that the whites had
rebelled against their king, that a large army had been sent against
them, which would in a short time subdue them. The Indians
were exhorted to send their warriors in every direction and harass
the whites as much as possible. They were reminded of the injuries
they had received from the whites and were told that as soon as the
rebels were subdued, they would be amply remunerated for all the
land that had been taken from them and for whatever other losses
they had sustained from them. The letter wound up by recom-
mending the bearer to the king as a man of sense and honesty and
as one in whose counsels they should place implicit confidence. After
the letters were read, a council was held and it was unanimously
agreed that the spy should be hanged. Colonel Campbell informed
the spy that he had but a short time to live and he had as well make
a full and candid confession of everything connected with his trip.
The spy said that he had been promised by the British commander
a large sum of money to carry these letters to the Indians and to
incite them to do all the mischief they could possibly accomplish.
Soon after this confession the spy was taken by Campbell and his
companions and swung to a limb."*
At the August term of the County Court of 1777, th^ situation
had become so alarming that the court thought proper to require all
the citizens of the county to take the oath of allegiance to the Com-
monwealth and directed tliat George Blackb urn tender the oath
of allegiance to all free male inliabitants living in the bounds of
Captain James Shelby's, Eobert Craig's and Andrew Colvill's com-
panies.
James Montgomery to tender the oath to those living in liis own
and Captain John Shelby's companies.
Arthur Campbell to tender the oath of allegiance to all in Cap-
tain Edmiston's and Captain Dysart's companies.
William Campbell to tender the oath of allegiance to those living
in Captain Aaron Lewis's company.
. *Capt. John Redd's MSS.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 275
John Snoddy, to those in his own and Captain Adam's compan3^
John Camphell, to those in his own and Captain John Camp-
bell's companies at Eoyal Oak.
John Kinkead in his own and Captain Dunkin's company.
Daniel Smith, to those living from the npper part of Captain
Dunkin's company to the county line, and to John Coulter was
assigiied the duty of tendering the oath of allegiance to all free male
inhabitants in the bounds of Captain Gilbert Christian's company
and Captain James Eobertson's company at Watauga.
The members of the County Court of Washington county were
zealous Whigs and were so aggressive in the enforcement of their
views, that it was with difficulty that a Tory could make his home
anywhere within the bounds of this county without being prosecuted
to the full extent of the law. A majority of these men did not
recognize any distinction between an Indian who would scalp his
wife and children and a man with a white skin who would lend
his influence to a government that would offer every inducement
to the Indian to murder and plunder the wliite settlers.
Colonel William Campbell was particularly aggressive in his pro-
secution of the Tories tO' be found within the county, and, by reason
thereof, was the object of special hatred on their part.
At this time there lived in Washington county two men by the
names of Frands Hopkins and William Hopkins. Francis Hop-
kins was a counterfeiter and, at the May term of the County Conrt
in the year 1778, he was tried by the court on suspicion of his hav-
ing counterfeited, erased and altered sundry treasury notes ; the
currency of this Commonwealth, knowing the same to be bad. He
was foimd guilty, fined fifty dollars lawful money of Virginia, sen-
tenced to six months in prison, and was ordered to be confined
within the walls of the Fort at William Cocke's (now C. L. Clyce's),
on Eenfro's creek, alias Spring creek, until the county gaol was
completed. He was conveyed to Cocke's Fort, but, within a short
time thereafter, made his escape and began a series of very bold
and daring depredations upon the Whig settlers of the county. He
organized a band of Tories, whose occupation was to steal the horses
of the settlers and intimidate the citizens whenever possible. He
went so far as to. post notices at and near the home of Colonel Wil-
liam Campbell, warning him that if he did not desist from his pro-
276 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
secution of the loyal adherents of George III, a terrible calamity
would befall him, either in the loss of his property or his life.
"On a quiet and beautiful Sabbath in the spring time of the
year 1780, General Campbell accompanied by Ms wife (who was
^ a sister of Patrick Henry), and several of their neighbors, attended
a religious service at a Presbyterian house of worship known as
Ebbing Spring Church in the upper end of this county. As they
were returning to their homes they happened to be conversing about
the audacity of the Tory who had been so bold and defiant in his
declarations and was suspected of having posted these notices above
referred to. Just as they arrived at the top of a hill, a short dis-
tance west of the present residence of Colonel Hiram A. Greever,
they observed a man on horseback on the opposite hill, coming
towards them. General Campbell was riding beside his wife, with
an infant on before him. One of them remarked that the individual
meeting them was the Tory of whom they had been speaking, prob-
ably now on a horse-stealing expedition, as he was observed to be
carrying a rope halter in his hand. Hearing this, Colonel Campbell,
without halting, handed the infant over to its mother and dashed
O'ut in front. Seeing the movement and recognizing the man whom
he so much feared and hated, the Tory wheeled his horse and started
back at quite a rapid gait, pursued at full speed by Colonel Camp-
bell and one of the gentlemen of the compan}'-, whose name was
Thompson. Never, it may be presumed, either before or since, has
such a dashing and exciting race been witnessed upon that long
level between the residences of Colonels Greever and Beattie. As
they reached the branch at the base of the hill a little west of Colonel
Beattie's, Colonel Campbell dashed up alongside the fleeing Tory,
who, seeing that he would be caught, turned short to the right down
the bank and plunged into the river. As he struck the water.
Colonel Campbell, who had left his companion in the rear, leaped in
beside him, grasped the Tory's holsters and threw them into the
stream, and then dragged him from his horse into the water.
At this moment Mr. Thompson rode up. They took their prisoner
out on the bank and held what may be termed a drum-head court.
The Tory, who, bad as he was, had the virtue of being a brave, can-
did man, at once acknowledged the truth of the charge preferred
against him and boldly declared his defiance and determination to
take horses wherever he could find them. But he was mistaken in
his man, for in less tlian ten minutes he was dangling from the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 277
limb of a large sycamore that stood upon the bank of the river, the
stump of which was to be seen a few years ago, and may be there
yet for aught the writer knows.*
After the sudden taking off of Fran^i^ Hopkins, as above detailed,
William Hopkins continued his depredations upon the Whig settlers
and resorted to arms, for which offence he also was arrested in the
year 1779 and committed to the gaol of this county for trial, but
escaped therefrom, whereupon, the court entered the following order
on the 16th day of June, 1779 :
"Washington county ss. On motion of Ephraim Dunlop, Deputy
Attorney for the Commonwealth, that the estate of William Hop-
kins, who had been taken and committed to the gaol of this county
for treasonable practices against the United States of America, in
taking up arms under the British Standard and who had broken the
gaol and escaped, be sold and the money deposited in the treasury, it
appearing to the court that the said Hopkins has no family, and
that he has no stated place of abode,
^'Ordered that the sheriff seize and sell all the estate of the said
Hopkins which shall be found in his bailiwick and that he keep
the money accruing from such sale in his hands until the General
Assembly shall determine how the said money is to be expended."
Ordered that the clerk of the court transmit this order to the
Speaker of the House of Delegates at the next session of the
Assembly.
The good citizens of the county organized themselves into bands
called "Eegulators," and patroled the county and meted out pun-
ishment to the offenders according to the enormity of their conduct.
The citizens, following the example of their leaders, adopted, in
dealing with Tory sympathizers, measures of such a character that
this county was comparatively free from Tory influences during the
entire war, and numbered among her citizens only such persons as
were willing and ready to offer their lives and property as a sacri-
fice on the altar of their country. And so strong and healthy was
the Whig settlement in this county, in the 5^ears 1778-1779, that
numbers of our citizens were called upon to assist in suppressing
an uprising of the Tory sympathizers in the county of Montgomery.
The mode of procedure adopted by our Eevolutionary fathers, in
dealing with tliis matter, may not meet with the approval of some
?Charles B. Coale.^
278 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
at this day, but it is evident to the student of our history, that the
methods used were the most effective in dealing with the unprin-
cipled men who had chosen, with the assistance of the Indians, tO'
commit all manner of depredations and outrages upon the frontier
settlements.
In the county of Montgomery, persuasion and good treatment
were used on this character of citizens and resulted in what might
be termed an insurrection, a deplorable state of affairs that could
not be remedied without the assistance of the patriots of Washing-
ton county and the application of their methods in the premises.
In Washington county stern justice was meted out speedily and
effectively, to all violators of the law, Avhich policy was approved by
the body politic and had the desired effect.
In the month of July, 1777, the Government of Virginia decided
to appoint a superintendent or Indian Agent for the Cherokee
Indians, which position was conferred upon Captain Joseph Mar-
tin, and the agency was located at the Long Island in Holston
river. Captain Martin, upon his appointment as Indian Agent,
proceeded to build a large store house on the island, for the purpose
of depositing such goods as the government might send out for the
Indians and for the accommodation of the Indians when at Long
Island on business with the Indian Agent.
Daniel Boone, in March, 1775, undertook to mark out for a num-
ber of North Carolina gentlemen a road from Watauga, Tennessee,
through the wilderness to Kentucky, which he did. The road
marked out by Boone, at this time, was from the Watauga settle-
ment near Elizabethton (Tennessee), to the Cumberland Gap, and,
from the Gap, it followed the Indian trace known as "the War-
rior's Path," about fifty miles, where it left the "Warrior's Path,"
bearing to the west to the "Hazel Patch" and to Pock Castle river.
From Eock Castle river the road passed through the present county
of Madison (Kentucky) and on to the Kentucky river, at the moutli
of Otter creek. About one mile below the moutli of this creek,
Boone established headquarters and erected a fort, and called it
Boonesborough. Boone was followed by a large company in charge
of Eichard Henderson, who claimed to own all the lands between
the Ohio and the Cumberland rivers, l)y purchase from the Chero-
kee Indians, to which country he had given the name of Transyl-
vania. Benjamin Logan with a company of men from the Wolf Hills,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 279
(now Abingdon), joined Colonel Henderson in Powell's Valley, and
the two companies traveled together as far as Eockcastle river in
Kentucky, where Logan, not approving of Colonel Henderson's pre-
tensions or plans, left Henderson and traveled westwardly in the
direction of the Crab Orchard, and when he had reached the level
land he halted and built a fort which he called "Logan's Port."
In this year, a large number of emigrants began to travel into
Kentucky, seeking homes, and, by the month of July, a considerable
body of people had gathered at Boone's Port and Logan's Port.
On the 4th day of July, 1777, one hundred Indians appeared
before Logan's Port and laid siege to it, which siege continued
until the month of September. When the siege had lasted foT
some time. Captain Benjamin Logan, with a number of friends,
slipped out of the fort by night and began an exceedingly hard and
dangerous trip to the settlements on Holston, to procure supplies for
the foTt and reinforcements against the Indians. They traveled by
night and lay by during the day ; but, finally reaching the Holston
at Wolf Hills, they secured powder and the assistance of forty rifle-
men, and returned to the fort within ten days.
The riflemen from the Holston settlenuents were under the
command of Colonel John Bowman. Many of the men who went
to the rescue of their relatives and fellow-citizens in Kentucky at
this time subsequently made their homes in Kentucky, and Ben-
jamin Logan became a great man in the new State.
The road thus marked by Daniel Boone and Benjamin Logan
continued to be the passageway of many hundreds of settlers and
emigrants on their way to Kentucky until the year 1781, although
it was nothing more than a mere path or trace.
By the 3^ear 1779 great numbers of people were emigrating to
and settling to the westward of the Cumberland mountains. In
this year the General Assembly of Virginia passed an act for mark-
ing and opening a road over the Cumberland mountains into the
county of Kentucky. The act in question appointed Evan Shelby
and Eichard Calloway commissioners to explore the country adja-
cent to and on both sides of the Cumberland mountains, and to
trace and mark the most convenient road from the settlements on
the east side of the mountains over the same into the open coun-
try into the county of Kentucky, and to cause such road, with all
convenient dispatch to be opened and cleared in such manner as
380 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
to give par^sage to travelers with pack-horses for the present;, and to
report to the next session of the Assembly the distance, the prac-
ticability and the cost of completing and making the same a good
wagon road. The act further j^rovided that should the said Evan
Shelby or Eichard Calloway refuse or be unable to act, then the
County Court of their residence should appoint his or their succes-
sor. It provided also that a guard of not more than fifty men from
the county most convenient should attend said commissioners while
locating this road.
Colonel Evan Shelby declined to act as commissioner, pursuant
to the act of the Assembly above mentioned, and the County Court
of Washington county, in which he lived, on June 20, 1780, en-
tered the following order :
"Ordered that Captain John Kinkead be appointed in the room
of Colonel Evan Shelby, who has refused to act agreeably to the
Act of Assembly for marking and opening a road over the Cum-
berland mountains into the county of Kentucke."
This appointment Captain Kinlcead accepted, and, along with
Captain Calloway, effected the opening of a road through the
Cumberland mountains to Kentucky, and on the first day of De-
cember, 1781, a petition of John Kinkead was presented to the
General Assembly of Virginia "setting forth that agreeably to ap-
pointment of the County Court of Washington he, in conjunction
with the other commissioner, proceeded to and effected the open-
ing of a road through the Cumberland mountains to Kentucky,
and praying to be paid for the service."
The road thus located by Captains Kinkead and Calloway, be-
came what was known as the "Wilderness Eoad," and for twenty
years subsequent thereto was the principal highway traveled by
an immense train of emigrants to the West. This road passed
through Abingdon, and that the present generation may be able
to locate this road, I give the stopping points, with the distances
between, along the road from Inglis' Ferry at New river to Cum-
berland Gap :
Washington County, 1777-1870. ^ 281
Miles. Miles.
*From Hand's Meadow to To Moccasin Gap 5
Inglis' Ferry at New Eiver 12 To Clinch Eiver 11
To Fort Chiswell 30 To Ford Stock Creek 2
To Atkins' Ordinary 19 To Little Flat Lick 5
To Mid. Fork Holston. . . — To North Fork Clinch 1
To Cross White's, Mont- To Powell's Mountain 1
gomery 3 To Wallen's Eidge 5
To Col. Arthur Campbell's 3 To Valley Station 5
To 7-mile Ford of Holston 6 To Powell's Eiver 2
To Major Dysart's Mill.. 12 To Glade Spring 4
To Washington Courthouse 10 To Martin's Station 19
To Head Eeedy Creek, Sul- To Big Spring 12
livan county, N. C 20 To Cumberland Mountain
To Block House 13 Gap 8
To North Fork of Holston 2
Thomas Speed traveled this same route in the year 1790, and
gives the names of the stopping points with the distances between :
Miles.
IngHs' Ferry 20
To Carter's 13
To Fort Chiswell 12
To the Stone Mill 11
To Adkins' 16
To Eussell Place 16
To Greenway's 14
To Washington Co. House 6
To the Block House 35
Miles.
To Farriss's 5
To Clinch Eiver 12
To Scott's Station 12
To Cox's at Powell's Eiver 10
To Martin's Station 2
To
To Cumberland Mountain 3
To Cumberland Eiver. ... 15
At this time five ferries were maintained across New river in
Southwest Virginia by land owners, toi-wit: William Inglis,
Samuel Pepper, Cornelius Brown, Thomas Herbert and Austin &
Co., for the accommodation of travelers and emigrants, and the
General Assembly fixed the toll at four cents for each man and
four cents for each horse ferried.
Cliief-Justice Eobertson, of Kentucky, in speaking of the land
law enacted for Kentucky by the General Assembly of Virginia
*Win. Brovra's MSS.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 283
in the year 1779, and of the emigration which took place in that
year, used the following language :
"This heneficent enactment hrought to the country during the
fall and winter of that year an unexampled tide of emigrants, who,
exchanging all the comforts of their native society and homes for
settlements for themselves and children liere, came, like pilgrims,
to a wilderness to be made secure by their arms and habitable by
the toil of their lives. Through privations incredible and ^perils
thick, thousands of men, women and children came in successive
caravans, forming continuous streams of human beings, horses,
cattle and other domestic animals, all moving onward along a
lonely and houseless path to a wild and cheerless land. Cast your
eyes back on that long procession of missionaries in the cause of
civilization ; behold the men on foot with their trusty guns on their
shol^lde^s, driving stock and leading pack-horses; and the women,
some walking with pails on their heads, others riding with chil-
dren in their laps, and other children hung in baskets on horses,
fastened to the tails of others going before; see them encamped
at night expecting to be massacred by Indians ; behold them in
tlie month of December, in that ever memorable season of unpre-
cedented cold called the "hard winter," traveling two or three
miles a day, frequently in danger of being frozen or killed by the
falling of horses on the icy and almost impassable trace, and sub-
sisting on stinted allowances of stale bread and meat ; but now,
lastly, look at them at the destined fort, perhaps on the eve of
Merry Christmas, when met by the hearty welcome of friends who
had come before, and, cheered by the fresh Iniffalo meat and
parched corn, they rejoice at their deliverance and resolve to be
contented with their lot."
It was by this route and in this manner that many of our citi-
zens traveled to their new homes in Kentucky and throughout the
West, and it was for the protection of travelers on this route that
the county officials of Washington county, Virginia, expended a
great deal of effort and money, the Indians, for many years sub-
sequent to 1775, waylaying this route, murdering the emigrants
and stealing their horses and plunder.
The ministers of the Gospel, being Presbyterian in belief, kept
step with the advance of the settlers upon the frontiers. The set-
tlements had scarcely reached the vicinity of Jonesboro, Tennes-
284 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
see, when Rev. Samuel Doak, a Presbyterian minister, who had
been educated at Princeton, with great energy and with a deter-
mination to make his home on the frontiers, appeared upon the
scene, after having walked through Maryland and Virginia, driv-
ing before him a horse loaded with books. He was greatly appre-
ciated by the people among whom he had cast his lot, and he, in
turn, exercised a "wonderful influence upon tlie early settlers of
East Tennessee.
In this year, 1777, through the influence of this preacher, a
Presbyterian log church was erected near Jonesboro, Tennessee,
to which was given the name of "Salem Church." Near this
church soon thereafter he erected a school-house which afterwards
became Washington College, this church and school being the
first erected in the State of Tennessee.
On the 26th day of November, 1777, the county court of this
county proceeded to make a statement of the county levy for the
year 1777, which statement was as follows:
"To Abraham Goodpasture, for building the
prison, £450
To Samuel Evans, for building a house to hold
court in.
To John Coulter for laying off the lots of the
town.
To Clerk for ex officio services, Tobacco, 1,000 lbs.
To Clerk, for public services, Tobacco, 1,300 lbs.
To a blank record book and alphabet, £5
To carriage for do. from Williamsburg, 7s. 6d.
To Wm. Young, for old Wolf Head,
To the Sheriff, for ex officio services.
To Sheriff, for whole of his public services,. . . .Tobacco, 12,000 lbs.
To building of pillory and stocks.
By 890 tithables, at 8s., £356
To Hugh Berry, for making 1,760 nails for
cO'Urthouse roof, £5
To G. Martin, for making irons for criminals.
From an inspection of this county levy, it will be seen that our
first county government was very frugal and economical. Many
readers will not understand how it was that a part of the county
Washington County, 1777-1870. 285
expenses was paid in tobacco. The explanation is that^ in those
early days, money was exceedingly scarce, and the House of Bur-
gesses of Virginia, as early as the year 1772, enacted a law per-
mitting the inhabitants of this section of Virginia to discharge
all secretaries', clerks' and other officers' fees in tobacco at the rate
of eight shillings and four pence for every hundredweight of gross
tobacco. And this law remained in force for a decade thereafter.
The Governor of Virginia, on the 23d day of July, 1777, issued
a new commission of the peace and dedimus for this county,
directed to
\
Arthur Campbell, Evan Shelby,
^ William Campbell, Daniel Smith,
\7illiam Edmiston, John Campbell,
Joseph Martin, Alexander BuchaDan,
James Dysart, Jolm Kinkead,
John Anderson, James Montgomery,
John Coulter, John Snoddy,
George Blackburn, Thomas Mastin,
Isaac Shelby, Robert Craig,
John Dunkin, John Adair,
Gilbert Christian, Thomas Caldwell,
and, on the 25th day of November, 1777, this commission was
"produced and read, and, thereupon, pursuant to the said dedimus,
the said Arthur Campbell took the oath of a justice of the peace
and a justice of the County Court in chancery, all of which oaths
were administered to him by John Kinkead. Thereupon, the said
Arthur Campbell administered the same oaths to:
John Kinkead, James Montgomery,
John Coidter, Robert Craig,
John Dunkin,
and thus was constituted the second County Court for Washington
county.
In the fall of this year. General George Rogers Clark traveled
from Kentucky over the "Wilderness Road," on his way to Rich-
mond, in company with a young lawyer by the name of John
Gabriel Jones, and reached Mump's Fort in Powell's Valley about
ten days subsequent to the killing, by the Indians, of a settler by the
286 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
name of Parks. In traveling through tJiis portion of Virginia,
he usually stopped at the nearest house when dark overtook him,
for which he usually paid, at the small cabins, a shilling and six-
pence for breakfast, bed and feed for horse. On his way he became
acquainted with Captain William Campbell, whom he found a very
agreeable companion.
The object of this journey to Richmond on the part of General
Clark was to secure the approval of the Governor of a plan that he
then conceived to be feasible and that would be of gi-eat value to
the American Colonies. He sought the consent and assistance of
the Governor in equipping and carrying on an expedition against
the British posts at Vincennes and Kaskaskia in the Illinois county ;
and there can be but little doubt that he discussed this question
with Captain Campbell, at the time of his visit to Holston.
He succeeded in obtaining the consent and authority of the
Governor to enlist three hundred and fifty men from the counties
west of the Alleghany mountains, to be used upon this expedition,
of which number four companies were to be raised in the Holston
and Clinch settlements, and Major W. B. Smith was dispatched,
in the year 1778, to recruit men for that service in this section.
There seems to be a conflict among historians as to the number
of men raised in this section by Major Smith for this service, one
giving the number as amounting to four companies; another, as^
one company.
The men recruited for this service were not informed of the pur-
pose for wliich they were intended, until they had reached the falls
of the Ohio (now Louisville).
The company of recruits from the Holston settlements did not
suppose, when they entered the service, that they were to be taken
upon such a long and dangerous expedition, and when they were
informed of the purpose for which they were to be used, they
objected to proceeding any further and left the camp of General
Clark and returned to their homes. This is the one disagreeable
circumstance connected with the history of our people. These men
were recruited from a country where the people were brave and
adventurous, and it is hard to account for their conduct upon this
occasion. We are sorry to state that, by their conduct, they deprived
this portion of Virginia of the honor of sharing in the wonderful
expedition and conquests of General Clark.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 387
While the company, as a whole, refused to go upon this expedi-
tion, a few of the men joined other companies and took part in the
expedition; and their names, so far as I have been able to gather
them, are as follows :
Low Brown, John Lasly,
Solomon Stratton, Xealy McGuire,
William Peery.
Supplies for this expedition were purchased upon the Holston,
as is evidenced by an order of the court entered on the 17th day of
Maj'ch, 1779, which order is as follows:
?'Whereas twenty-six forty dollar bills were found in the pos-
session of Captain Thomas Quirk, and, on the examination of the
court of Washington county, were supposed to be counterfeit, the
said Captain Quirk delivered the said bills to the sheriff in the
presence of the court, and it appears by the oath of the said
Thomas Quirk and Andrew Colvill that the said Thomas Quirk
receiver] these bills of James Buchanan, commissary for the Illi-
nois service, tO' purchase bacon. Whereupon', it is ordered that the
sheriff take or send the said bills to the Board of Auditors for
further proceedings, according to law. A list of the bills is given,
which bills are signed by D. Summers and G. Brown and dated
April 11, 1778."
At the election held for Washington county in the spring of
the 3'ear 1778, Arthur Campbell and Anthony Bledsoe were
elected members of the House of Delegates, and William Fleming,
of Botetourt, a member of the Senate, in the General Assembly
of Virginia.
In the spring of this year. Captain James Dysart and Lieutenant
Samuel Newell were placed in command of two companies of mili-
tia to range, during the summer, along the frontiers in Powell's
and Clinch A^alleys, as a protection against the Indians. Early in
the month of May, before the departure of these ranging parties,
a man by the name of Whitesides, a large, active man, left his
home near Elk Garden Fort for Glade Hollow Fort, where he had
a horse running on the range. While hunting for his horse about
two miles from Glade Hollow Fort, he was captured by nine
Indians, who pinioned his arms back, loaded him with their extra
phmder and some meat cut from the carcass of a dead horse, and
288 Southwest Virginia, nJ^6-1786.
in this marmer skulked about for several days, watching for an
opportunity to attack Glade Hollow Fort, which was in a wretched
state of defence, seven men only being in the fort.*
These men were engaged daily in bringing salt-petre dust from
a cave at some distance from the fort, to make salt-petre, upon the
discovery of which, the Indians resolved to take the fort the next
time the men went out.
They tied Whitesides' feet and left an Indian to guard him,
while the others sought a more convenient place to attack the fort
when occasion offered.
In the meantime the Indian who had charge of Whitesides,
thinking they were too much exposed to view, untied his feet and
made him creep further into the brush and, laying down his gun,
sat down before Whitesides to tie his feet again. At that moment,
Whitesides seized the gun, and, although his arms were pinioned,
gave the Indian such a blow over the head as broke the gun to
pieces and felled the Indian to the ground and, perhaps, killed him.
Whitesides then sprang to his feet and gave the alarm to the men
near the fort, who ran back to the fort with all speed, but
Whitesides ran past the fort towards the Elk Garden fort,
carrying all the Indian's plunder on his back. The eight
Indians who were waylaying the fort, hearing the alarm,
ran back, and finding their companion, perhaps lifeless, pur-
sued Whitesides; and while doing so, met about forty men in
plain view of the fort, on their way to act as rangers; on
whom the Indians fired and killed two. The rest fled ingloriously,
each one in his way, spreading the alarm that the fort was taken.
Upon receipt of this news at Black's Fort, Captain Samuel Newell,
with eighteen men set off for Glade Hollow Fort. They ran
about twelve miles that evening and waded the North Fork of
Holston just before night, but were forced to stop when night set
in, as they had no trace they could follow in the night, and, in
many places the weeds and grass were waist high. They arrived in
view of the fort next morning between eight and nine o'clock, and
upon reconnoitering, found the fort had not been taken. When the
occupants of the fort saw them, they ran out to meet them. The
next day, Captain James Dysart, with eighteen men, arrived at the
fort.
*Beiijainin Sharp Letter, American Pioneer.
Workington County, 1777-1870. 389
During the same year, in the lower end of this county, a young
man by the name of Fulkerson was killed when driving up his horses
from the range, and Thomas Sharp was fired at and badly wounded,
but, being on horseback, he made his escape and recovered from
his wounds. Jacob Fulkerson and a young man by the name of
Callahan were both killed this year, while hunting their cattle in
the range.
On the 23d day of April, 1778, the court entered the following
order :
"Ordered that Colonel William Campbell be appointed to dis-
tribute the county salt to the most necessitous of the frontier
inhabitants of Clinch and the lower settlements of Washington
county below the mouth of the ISTorth Fork, such a quantity
reserving as he shall judge sufScient for the militia on duty, also
selling at such rate as will be suflficient to discharge the first cost
and expenses."
"Ordered that Isaac Lebo be permitted to go towards the Mora-
vian Town for salt, and that he return within the term of three
weeks."
Isaac Lebo is one of the same men that had, previously to tliis
time, been arrested, tried and convicted of treasonable practices
against the Commonwealth, and this, no doubt, was an excuse
offered by him for an opportunity to communicate with his Tory
friends in the South.
On the 21st day of May, 1778, Samuel Newell qualified as Deputy
Sheriff for the county and gave and filed a bond for the due col-
lection and accounting for the taxes of the county of Washington,
and entered upon his duties as first tax collector for the county,
under the law of Virginia. It was the duty of the County Court
to recommend to the Governor the names of the three magistrates
named first in the Commission of Peace, from which list the Gov-
ernor commissioned a sheriff for the county, and on the 20th day
of April, 1778, the court recommended Arthur Campbell, William
Campbell and Daniel Smith as fit and proper persons to execute
the office of sheriff for the county of Washington. From this list
the Governor commissioned Arthur Campbell as sheriff of the
county, and he qualified as such on the 16th day of February, 1779,
with Evan Shelby, Andrew Willoughby and Andrew Kincannon
as his securities. During this and the succeeding year, the follow-
290 Southivest Virginia, 1746-1786.
ing gentlemen qualified as deputy sheriffs of the count}'; Samuel
Newell, Christopher Acklin and Alexander Donaldson.
At the March court 1779, Harry Innes and Eowland Madison
qualified to practice law in the courts of the county. Harry Innes
afterwards moved to the county of Kentucky, where he became
distinguished in the annals of that State. At the same term of
the court, Daniel Smith, Robert Craig and John Campbell were
appointed commissioners of the tax, the land owners having failed
to attend and elect commissioners. At this term of the court, David
Campbell resigned his position as Clerk of the Court, and John
Campbell was appointed to succeed him, which position he occupied
until the year 1824, during which time he faithfully discharged
his duties and retained the respect and confidence of the people of
this county. David Campbell, who resigned his position as Clerk
of the Court on the 15th day of August, 1780, obtained a commis-
sion from His Excellency, Thomas Jefferson, appointing him attor-
ney-at-law, and qualified as such in the court of this county, but,
soon thereafter, he removed to Campbell's Station, Tennessee, in
Avhich State he won distinction in his profession and became the
first Chief Justice of that State.
From the orders of the court at this term, it appears that Samuel
Evans had not completed the courthouse, pursuant to contract, and
Joseph Black was directed to agree with Evans as to the amount
he should receive for the work that he had done upon the court-
house; and the sheriff was directed to agree with some person to
finish the courthouse.
At the April term ol this court, a statement of the county levy
was made for the year 1779, which is as follows:
"Ephraim Dunlop, for services as State's Attorney for the
year 1777 and for the year 1778, £200.00
Abraham Goodpasture, for building prison, 500.00
Samuel Evans, for building courthouse, 100.00
Abraham Goodpasture, finishing courthouse, 100.00
Arthur Campbell, for three blank books for the Clerk,. . 15.00
To do. for the body of the law for use of the Court, 5. '
To do. for cash paid Hugh Berry, nails courthouse, 5.
To do. for 60 lbs. iron furnished for nails courthouse, .... 5.
To window glass for courthouse, 12 lights @ 9s., . 5.8
To do. for ex officio services for 1777-1778, 15.0
Washington County, 1777-1870.
291
Allowed for pillory and stocks, 75.0
By 1464 tithables @ 15s. per titliable, 1,098.9
At this same court the following order was entered :
"Ordered that the main road be cut according to report of
Joseph Black, Andrew Colvill and James Piper, viewers from
the courthouse to the Twenty-llile creek, and that Andrew Colvill
be surveyor from the courthouse to the west side of Spring creek,
and that the tithables formerly ordered work upon the same."
The Pillory — Used in this Section in the Earl_y Days.
The road was opened pursuant to this order, the location of
which was about the same as tliat of the present road from Abing-
don to Papersville, Tennessee.
At the May term of court, 1779, tlu^ Attorney for the Common-
wealth filed an information against John Yancy, a citizen and hotel
keeper, living ia the town of Abingdon, charging him with the
offence of enclosing his sheep in the courthouse, upon which inform-
ation divers witnesses were sworn and examined, and the defendant
heard in his defence, whereu})on, the court fined the defendant
twenty shillings and the costs.
At the same court, the prison erected by Abraham Goodpasture
was, by order of the court, used, but not received. On the same
day the court entered the following order :
"Ordered that David Carson and Joseph. Black lay off the prison
293 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
bounds, exceeding five acres and not more than ten, and take in the
water, and David Carson was paid six pounds for his services."
On the 19th day of August the court entered the following order :
"Ordered that Arthur Campbell, Anthony Bledsoe, Daniel Smith,
Joseph Black and John Blackamore be appointed examiners of the
bills of credit of this State and the other United States, agreeably
to the act of the Assembly entitled "An Act for more effectually
guarding against counterfeiting of the Bills of Credit, Treasury
Notes and Loan OflSce certificates."
In the early summer of this year, the Tories living near the head
of the Yadkin river, North Carolina, and on New river and Walk-
er's creek in Montgomery county, Virginia, began to form into a
body, with the intention of destroying the Lead Mines on New
river, robbing the well affected citizens of that county, and then
forcing their way to the headquarters of Lord Cornwallis, who was
at that time in the Carolinas. There was every prospect that an
insurrection would take place, and, notwithstanding the untiring
efforts of Colonel William Preston, the county-lieutenant of that
county, he was unable to quiet the disaffected, or to protect the well-
disposed citizens. As a last resort Colonel Preston called upon the
officials of Washington county for assistance, when Captain William
Campbell, with about one hundred and fifty militia from this
county, all well mounted, turned out and proceeded to suppress this,
a new kind of enemy to the people of Washington county. The
name of Captain Campbell was such as to strike consternation into
the ranlc of the Tories, who dispersed upon his approach and
offered no open resistance. The militia from this county were then
dispatched in small detachments and had active business for several
weeks pursuing, taking and imprisoning Tories. The militia sub-
sisted themselves and their horses upon the grain and stock of the
Tories, and compelled all Tory sympathizers who were old and unfit
for service to give security for their good behavior, or to go to
jail. The young, effective men were pardoned on condition of their
serving as faithful soldiers in the armies of the United States
during the war, as an atonement for their crime. Colonel Camp-
bell and his men saw hard and active duty during this time, but
lost no lives nor had any of their men wounded.
Captain Campbell and his militia from this county were ably
seconded in their efforts to suppress the Tory sentiment then exist-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 393
ing in Montgomery, by Colonel Walter Crockett, Captain Charles
Lynch, Captain Robert Sayers and Captain Isaac Campbell. Cap-
tains Sayers and Campbell each commanded a company of men
numbering twenty-eight and thirty-five respectively, at this time,
and were not satisfied with a suppression of the Tories in Mont-
gomery county, but thereafter proceeded to perform the same
service in parts of Surrey and Wilkes counties. North Carolina.
Captain Campbell and his men, in dealing with the Tories of
Montgomery county, applied the same methods used so effectively
in Washington county, of which we give one instance, that the
reader may understand the methods used.
"There is a beautiful little valley known by the name of "Black
Lick," nestling among the mountains of Wythe county, which,
being remote from highways and environed by uninhabited forests,
afforded shelter for a number of Tories, who made frequent forays
upon the neighboring settlements and then concealed themselves in
this remote and quiet retreat. Their hiding place becoming dis-
covered, General Campbell's men surrounded it, captured about a
dozen and hung them upon two white oaks which; spared by the
woodman's ax for the righteous oflfice they had performed, were
still standing a few years ago, and were long loiown by the name
of the "Tory Trees."*
At the time in question. Captain Charles Lynch, of Bedford
county, was manager for the Commonwealth at the Lead Mines on
New river, and, as a result of the visit of Captain Campbell to
Montgomery county in this year, he thereafter adopted Campbell's
method of dealing with Tories and wrong-doers; and, ever after,
during the war, when any of the inhabitants were suspected of
wrong doing or treasonable conduct, they were dealt with accord-
ing to what was termed "Captain Lynch's Law," and from this man
and this occasion originated the term "Lynch Law," as it is prac-
tised throughout the nation, under peculiar circumstances, at this
day.
Upon the return of Captain Campbell and his men from Mont-
gomery county, considerable complaint was made by the Tory inhab-
itants of that section of Virginia, and efforts were made to prose-
cute Cam.pbell and his associates, but the Legislature of Virginia,
recognizing the valuable services of these patriots, in October of
*Chas. B. Coale.
294 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
that year passed an Act exempting them from all pains and pen-
alties by reason of their acts, which Act of the Assembly is as
follows :
"Whereas divers evil-disposed persons on the frontiers of this
Commonwealth had broken out into an open insurrection and con-
spiracy and actually levied war against the Commonwealth, and it is
represented to the present General Assembly that William Camp-
bell, Walter Crockett and other liege subjects of the Common-
wealth, aided by detachments of the militia and volunteers from the
county of Washington and other parties of the frontiers did by their
timely -and effectual exertion suppress and defeat such conspiracy ;
and whereas the necessary measures taken for that purpose may not
be strictly warranted by law, although justifiable from the imme-
diate urgency and imminences of the danger; be it therefore
declared and enacted, That the said William Campbell, Walter
Crockett and all other persons whatsoever concerned in suppressing
the said conspiracy and insurrection, or in advising, issuing or
executing any orders or measures taken for that purpose stand
indemnified and clearly exonerated of and from all pains, penalties,
prosecutions, actions, suits and damages on account thereof; and
that if any indictment, prosecution, action or suit shall be laid or
brought against them, or any of them, for any act or thing
done therein, the defendant or defendants may plead in bar, or the
general issue, and give this act in evidence."*
In the summer of this year, at the instigation of British agents.
Dragging Canoe and his band of Indians, living at Chickamauga,
were induced to undertake a campaign against the Virginia and
Carolina frontiers. While making preparations for the campaign,
James Eobertson, ^\\\o was then at Chote, received information of
their intended invasion and immediately informed the leaders on
the Ilolston. Upon the receipt of this information it was decided
that the militia of the twO' governments should unite, and carry
on an active expedition against tlicse Indians. Colonel Evan
Shelby, of Sapling Grove (now Bristol), was selected to command
the expedition. The forces from the two States assembled at the
mouth of Big Creek on the Clinch river (near Rogersville, Ten-
nessee), on April 10, 1779, Captain Isaac Shelby being in command
of the forces from Washington county, Virginia. At this point the
*10 Hening Statutes, page 195.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 295
entire army, consisting of several liundred men, volunteers from the
settlements, and a regiment of twelve-months' men, under the com-
mand of Captain John Montgomery, intended as a reinforcement
to General Clark in tlie Illinois, temporarily diverted from that
object for use in this campaign, embarked in canoes and boats, and
descended the Tennessee river to the home of the Chickamoggas.
The Indians were completely taken by surprise and fled in all
directions to the hills and mountains, not offering any resistance.
Forty Indians, at least, were killed, and their towns were destroyed,
their horses and cattle driven away, and their corn and provisions,
as well as twenty thousand pounds in value of stores and goods,
carried off. Thereupon, the troops destroyed their boats and canoes
and returned to their homes on foot. Thus it was that one of the
cherished hopes of the British ministry was foiled and the prospects
of the Colonies exceedingly enhanced.
Colonel Shelby, while making preparations to conduct this expe-
dition against the Indians at Chickamogga, dispatched Jolui Do'Ug-
lass to the settlements on Clinch river, pursuant to the orders of
Colonel Russell, but Douglas was waylaid and killed by the Indians
and his horse ridden off.
When the expedition against the Chickamogga Indians was
decided upon, Colonel Evan Shelby dispatched John Hutson to the
Indian town with letters to Colonel Joseph Martin, advising him
to remove from the Indian country to the Great Island, agreeably
to the Governor's instructions, but, unfortimately, Hutson was
drowned in the execution of that business, and his widow, Eleanor
Hutson was allowed by the General Assembly at its fall session in
the year 1779, the sum of twenty-four pounds for the present relief
of herself and cliildren, and twelve pounds per annum during her
widowhood.
"In the summer of 1779, the Indians visited the home of Jesse
Evans, who lived near the head waters of the Clinch river, and
destroyed his family. On the morning of the day in question, Jesse
Evans left his honse, with five or six hired men, for the purpose of
executing some work at a distance from home. As they carried with
them various farming implements, their guns were left at the
house, where Mrs. Evans was engaged in weaving a piece of cloth.
Her oldest daughter was filling quills for her wliile the four remain-
296 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
ing children were either at play in the garden or gathering vege-
tables.
The garden was about sixty yards from, the house, and, as no saw-
mills were in existence at that day in this country, slab-boards were
put up in a manner called "wattling" for palings. These were some
six feet long and made what is called a close fence. Eight or ten
Indians, who lay concealed in a thicket near the garden, silently left
their hiding places and made their way, unobserved, to the back of
the garden. There, removing a few boards, they bounded through
and commenced the horrid work of killing and scalping the chil-
dren. The first warning Mrs. Evans had was their screams and
cries. She ran to the door and beheld the sickening scene, with
such feelings as only a mother can experience.
Mrs. Evans was a stout, athletic woman, and, being inured to the
hardships of the times, with her to will was to do. She saw plainly
that on her exertions alone could one spark of hope be entertained
for the life of her "first born." An unnatural strength seemed to
nerve her arm and she resolved to defend her surviving child to
the last extremity. Eushing into the house she closed the door,
which being too small, left a crevice, through which in a few
moments an Indian extended his gun, aiming to pry open the door
and finish the bloody work which had been so fearfully begun. Mrs.
Evans had thrown herself against the door to prevent the entrance
of the savages, but no sooner did she see the gun barrel than she
seized it and drew it in so far as to make it an available lever in
prying to the door. The Indians threw themselves against the door
to force it open, but their efi'orts were unavailing. The heroic
woman stood to her post, well knowing that her life depended upon
her own exertions. The Indians now endeavored to wrest the gun
from her; in this they likewise failed. Hitherto she had worked in
silence, but as she saw no prospect of the Indians relinquishing their
object, she began to call loudly for her husband, as if he were really
near. It had the desired effect; they let go the gun and hastily
left the house, while Mrs. Evans sat quietly down to await a second
attack, but the Indians, who had perhaps seen Mr. Evans and his
workmen leave the house, feared he might be near, and made off
with all speed.
While Mrs. Evans was thus sitting and brooding over the melan-
choly death of her children, anxious to go to those in the garden, but
Washington County, 1777-1870. 297
fearing to leave her surviving one in the house, exposed to a second
attack, a man named Goldsby stepped up to the door. Never did
manna fall to the hungered Jew more opportunely, yet no sooner did
he hear her woful tale than he turned his back upon her and fled
as if every tree and bush had been an Indian taking deadly aim at
him. Such were his exertions to get to a place of greater safety that
he brought on hemorrhage of the lungs, from which he with much
difficulty recovered.
Seeing herself thus left to the mercy of the savages, Mrs. Evans
took up the gun she had taken from them and started with her
remaining daughter to Major John Taylor^s, about two miles dis-
tant, where, tired and frenzied with grief, she arrived in safety.
She had not been gone a great while, when Mr. Evans returned and,
not suspecting anything wrong, took down a book, and was engaged
in its perusal for some time, till finally he became impatient and
started to the garden, where he supposed Mrs. Evans was gathering
vegetables. What must have been his feelings when he reached the
garden to see four of his children murdered and scalped. Seeing
nothing of his wife and eldest daughter, he supposed they had been
taken prisoners; he therefore returned quickly to the house, seized
his gun and started for Major Taylor's to get assistance and a com-
pany to follow on and try, if possible, to overtake them. Frantic
with grief he rushed into the house to tell his tale of woe, when he
was caught in the arms of his brave wife. His joy at finding them
was so great that he could scarcely contain himself; he wept, then
laughed, then thanked God it was no worse. As is common in
such cases in a new country, the neighbors flocked in to know the
worst, and to offer such aid as lay in their power. They S5mipathized
as only frontiersmen can sympathize, with the bereaved parents ;
but the thought of having to bury four children the next morning
was so shocking and so dreadful to reflect on, that but little peace
was to be expected for them. Slowly the reluctant hours of night
passed away, and a faint gleam of light became visible in the east-
ern sky. The joyous warblers were gayly flitting from branch to
branch and carrolling their sweetest lays, while the sun rose above
the mountain summit, shooting his bright beams on the sparkling
dewdrops which hung like so many diamonds from the green boughs
of the mountain shrubbery, giving, altogether, an air of gorgeous
beauty which seemed to deny the truth ol the evening's tale. The
298 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-17S6.
light clouds swimming in the eastern atmosphere, brilliantly tinted
with the rising sun,
And the gentle murmur of the morning breeze,
Singing nature's anthem to the forest trees,
seemed to say sneh horrid work could not be done by beings wear-
ing human form. But alas! while nature teaches naught but love,
men teach themselves lessons which call forth her sternest frowns.
A hasty breakfast was prepared and the men set otf to IMr. Evans's
house tO' bury the murdered children. With a heart too full for
?utterance, the father led the way, as if afraid to look at those little
forms for whose happiness he had toiled, and braved the dangers
of a frontier life. But a day ago he had dandled them on his knees,
and listened to their innocent prattle ; they were now monuments of
Indian barbarity.
Turning a hill the fatal garden was instantly ]iainted on the
retina of the fond parent's eye, to be quickly (M-ased l)y the silent
tears wdiich overflowed their fountain and came trickling down
his weather beaten face.
The party came up to the l)ack of th(> house at the front of which
stood the milk-house, over a spring of clear water, when, lo ! they
beheld coming up, as it were from the very depth of the grave, Mary,
a little child only four years old, who had recovered from the stun-
ning blow of the tomahawk and had been in (|uest of water at the
familiar old spring around which, but a day before, she had sported
in childish glee. The scalp that had been torn from the skull was
hanging hideously over her ])ale face,which was much besmeared
with blood. Rhe stretclied out her little arms to meet her father,
who rushed to her with all the wild joy of one whose heart beats
warm with parental emotions ! She had wandered about in the
dark from the time she had recovered and, it may be, had more than
once tried to wake her little sisters on whose heads the tomahawks
had fallen with greater force. This poor, half-nnirdered little child
lived, married and raised a largo family."*
In the spring of the year 1779, at the election held for members
of the General Assembly of Virginia, Isaac Shelby and David
Campbell were elected and served the people of Washington county
for this year. During this year General E. Clarke, of Georgia, was
compelled to take refuge in the settlements on Watauga and Hol^
*Bickley's History of Tazewell.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 299
ton, and, while in the settlements, repeated to the hardy frontiers-
men many of the dastardly deeds committed by the British forces in
their invasion and subjugation of South Carolina and Georgia.
As a result, many of the citizens of these settlements returned with
him to his home in Georgia to assist in avenging the wrongs of
their fellow countrymen and, in addition thereto, creating through-
out Southwestern Virginia and the Holston settlements a lively
interest in the affairs to the south of the settlements.
The officials of Washington county, Virginia, from the first organ-
ization of the county until this time, had, without question, exer-
cised their authority as low down as Carter's Valley, upon the sup-
position that all that portion of the country was in Virginia, but,
on the 30th day of September in this year, an occurrence took
place in Carter's Valley, lietween William Cocke, lately a represen-
tative from Washington county in the I^egislature of Virginia, and
Alexander Donaldson, a deputy for Arthur Campbell, that resulted
in greatly curtailing the territory included within this county. The
circumstances connected with this transaction are best stated by
the order of the County Court of Washington county, Virginia,
entered on the 20th of October, 1779, which is as follows:
"The complaint of the sheriff against William Cocke for insulting
and obstructing Alexander Donaldson, deputy sheriff, when col-
lecting the public tax about the thirteenth day of September last,
and being examined saith ; that, being at a point on the north side
of Holston river in Carter's Valley, collecting the public tax, the
said William Cocke, as he came to the door of the house in which
said sheriff was doing business, said that there was the sheriff of
Virginia collecting the tax, and asked him what right he had to
collect taxes there, as it was in Carolina and never was in Virginia ;
that he said the people were fools if they did pay him public dues,
and that he dared him to serve any process whatever ; that he, said
Cocke, undertook for the people, upon which sundry people refused
to pay their tax and some, that had paid, wanted their money back
again."
"Ordered that the conduct of William Cocke respecting the
obstructing, insulting and threatening the sheriff in the execution
of his office be represented to the Executive of Virginia.
"Ordered that if William Cocke be found in this county that he
be taken into custody and caused to appear before the justices at the
300 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
next court to answer for his conduct for obstructing the sheriff in
execution of his oflBce."
As a result of this difficulty, the General Assembly of Virginia
and North Carolina at their sessions, in the year 1779, appointed Dr.
Thomas Walker and Daniel Smith, on the part of Virginia, and
Richard Henderson and William B. Smith, on the part of North
Carolina, commissioners, to run the line between the two States,
beginning where Fry and Jefferson and Weldon and Churton ended
their work, near Steep Eock creek, if found to be truly in latitude
36 degrees 30 minutes North, and to run thence due west to the
Tennessee or the Ohio river. The commissioners ran the line with-
out trouble for about forty miles, when they disagreed, the North
Carolina commissioners claiming the true line to be about two miles
north of the place at which the commissioners were then stationed.
The Virginia commissioners proceeded to run the line to the Mis-
sissippi river and made their report. Nothing further will be said
upon this subject at this point, but it will be separately treated in
another part of this book. Suffice it to say that the line, as ascer-
tained by the Virginia commissioners, deprived Washington county
of from one-third to one-half of the territory supposed to lie within
Washington county; and the North Carolina Legislature, at their
fall session in this year, established Sullivan county, North Caro-
lina, afterwards Tennessee, and the government of that county was
organized at the house of Moses Loony in the month of February,
1780.
Isaac Shelby, one of Washington county's representatives in the
Legislature of Virginia, qualified as county lieutenant and Ephraim
Dunlop, Washington county's deputy attorney, was appointed State's
attorney for the new county.
The act of the General Assembly of North Carolina erecting the
county of Sullivan recites that the then late extension of the north-
ern boundary line of the State from Holston river, that lies directly
west from a place well known by the name of Steep Eock, makes it
evident that all the lands west of said place, lying on the west and
northwest side of said river Holston have, by mistake of the settlers,
been held and deemed to be in the State of Virginia; owing to which
mistake they have not entered said lands in the proper offices. It
recites also, that by a line lately run, it appears that a number of
such settlers have fallen into the State of North Carolina, and it
Washington County, 1777-1870. 301
makes provision for the security of their lands and improvements.
These were the first lands taken from the county as originally
formed.
In the fall of this year Andrew Colvill^ a citizen of Wolf Hills,
was commissioned as escheator for Washington county, and Evan
Baker was appointed deputy commissary on the western side of the
Blue Eidge, agreeably to the order of the Governor and Council.
On the 22d day of March, 1780, the County Court of this county
entered several important orders, among the number being one
fixing the county levy for the year 1779, at twenty dollars for each
tithable, and appointing John Campbell, David Carson and Alex-
ander Montgomery commissioners of the tax for that year, and
James Dysart, Eobert Craig and John Kinkead commissioners to
collect that portion of the tax that was payable in commutable
articles.
Eobert Craig and Aaron Lewis were recommended to the Gov-
ernor as fit and proper persons for coroners of Washington county
and were commissioned as such, and
Benjamin Estill, David Watson,
Alexander Montgomery, Aaron Lewis,
Thomas Montgomery, James Fulkerson,
John Latham, David Ward,
Joseph Black, Eobert Campbell, and
Alexander Barnett,
were recommended to the Governor as fit and proper persons to be
added to tlie commission of the peace for Washington county, and
were commissioned as such.
These recommendations were made in view of the fact that quite
a number of the members of the court of this county had been
lost to the county when the State line was run and Sullivan county,
North Carolina, was formed.
By far the most important order entered by the court on this day
was the following :
"Ordered that it be recommended to the county lieutenant of
this county not to call a general muster the ensuing month, on
account of the apparent danger from the enemy and other dis-
tressing circumstances of the county."
The army of Cornwallis was fast approaching the southern bor-
302 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
(ler of North Carolina, and every friend of the British government
was stimulated into life and became a source of uneasiness and
trouble to the back settlements. At this time General Rutherford,
of North Carolina, made a reqviisition ujjon Sullivan and Washing-
ton counties in North Carolina for tJie aid of their militia in the
defence of the State. Cornwallis was meeting with but little
obstruction in his march and contemplated nothing less than the
overrunning of North Carolina and the invasion of Virginia. It
was this state of affairs that produced the alarm among the set-
tlers in Washington county.
At the April court, 1780, William Campbell was recommended by
the court and commissioned by the Goivernor, as colonel of the
county militia, in the place of Evan Shelby, who had become a
citizen of the State of North Carolina. Daniel Smith was com-
missioned lieutenant-colonel, and William Edmiston major. At the
same time the following militia officers were recommended and
commissioned :
Captains of Militia:
James Crabtree, William Edmiston, Jr.,
William Edmiston, Alexander Barnett,
David Beatie, Jr., David Beatie,
Charles Cocke,
and previously to this time and during the years 1778 and 1779,
the following captains of militia were commissioned :
George Maxwell, William Neil,
Thomas Caldwell, James Fulkerson,
Lieutenants of Militia:
Robert Edmiston, Jr., Humberson Lyon,
William Bartlett, William Davison,'
William Edmiston, Joshua Buckner,
Joseph Scott, <i -
and in the year 1778-1779, the following:
William Blackburn, John Davis,
Levi Bishop, Moses Loony,
Hugh Crawford, James Leeper,
Solomon Litton, Roger Topp,
William Rosebrough, Samuel Newell,
William Pitman, John Lowry,
George Finley.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 303
Ensigns of Militia:
Kobert Campbell, John McFerrin,
James Houston, Nathaniel Dryden,
Andrew Goff, Daniel Davison,
Hugh Campbell, William Blackmore,
and in 1778-1779:
John Sawyers, Thomas Sharp,
Eees Bowen, George Teeter,
Patrick Campbell, Samuel Vanhook,
John Steele, William Crockett.
I give the names of the officers of the county militia from the
formation of the county to this time with considerable particularity,
as we know that every officer at the Battle of King's Mountain,
from Washington count}^, was made up from this list. And it is
more than probable that all the officers whose names (with very few
exceptions) have been given were present on that occasion.
At the county court held on the last Tuesday in April of this year
John Yancy and Christopher Acklin were licensed by the court to
keep ordinaries in the town of Abingdon, being among the first
ordinary keepers in the town of Abingdon.
At the June term of this court there seemed to have been a little
trouljle among the gentry, which is evidenced by the following orders
entered by the court on that day :
"Ordered that James Kerr be fined two hundred pounds for in-
sulting Joseph Scott in open court.
"Ordered that William Robinson be fined two hundred pounds for
insulting Joseph Scott.
"Ordered that Joseph Scott be fined two hundred pounds for
flashing a pistol at James Kerr in the court yard.
"Ordered that James Kerr be fined twenty pounds for insulting
James Montgomery."
At the same term of the court Rol^ert Irvin qualified as deputy
for Arthur Campbell, sheriff of Washington county.
The following order entered by the court on August 17th is given,
because it designates the first settler at the head of Little Moccasin
creek.
"Ordered that John Snoddy, gent, give Alexander Barnett a list
of tithables to work on the road from the mouth of Harrold's creek
304 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
to Alexander Montgomery's old cabin, at the head of Little Mocca-
sin/'
During the summer of this year the militia of this county was
kept on the move in consequence of the threatened invasion of the
British forces from the South. In the months of August and Sep-
tember one hundred and fifty men from Washington county saw-
active service on New river, about the Lead Mines, and over the
jnountains in North Carolina, under Colonel William Campbell, to
prevent and suppress any attempted insurrection among the Tories
in those quarters.
The Cherokee Indians, in September of this year, began to give
evidence of an unfriendly disposition, and every indication pointed
to an Indian war, when the Governor of Virginia directed Colonel
AYilliam Campbell to take command of an expedition against the
Cherokee Indians, and it was left to his choice whether to take the
troops do-wii the Tennessee by water or on horseback. If the men
went on horseback they were to be paid for such pack horses
as might be lost without fault of the owner.
BATTLE OF KING's MOUNTAIN.
While preparations were being made for this expedition and men
were being mustered into service Colonel William Campbell was
directed by the Governor to take command of the militia ordered to
suppress the Tories who were at that time rising in arms, and to
apply to that purpose the same means and powers that he was in-
vested with for carrying on the Cherokee expedition, and, while mak-
ing every preparation to^ execute the orders of the Governor, let-
ters were received by him from Colonels Isaac Shelby and John
Sevier requesting his assistance in a contemplated expedition
against Colonel Ferguson, the British officer who was then stationed
at Gilberttown, North Carolina. Acting under the orders of the
Go'vernor previously given, Colonel William Campbell joined in
this expedition, and marched a number of mounted militia from
this county to King's mountain, South Carolina.
Many writers, in speaking of the campaign against Ferguson and
of the battle at King's mountain, make the statement that tliis
expedition was without authority of government, but Colonel Wil-
liam Campbell seemed to think differently, as is evidenced by a cer-
tificate made by him in his own handwriting in the year 1781 and
recently discovered among some old papers in the auditor's office
Washington County, 1777-1870. 305
at Eichmond. This certificate, with endorsements thereon, is here
given in full :
"I hereby certify that when I was ordered by the Executive last
summer to take command of an expedition against the Cherokee
Indians, it was left to my own choice whether to take the troops down
the Tennessee by water, or on horseback, they were to be paid for
such pack horses as might be lost without default of the owners.
That expedition not being carried on, I was directed by His Ex-
cellency the Governor to take command of the militia ordered to
suppress the Tories who were at that time rising in arms, and to
apply to that purpose the same means and powers which I was in-
vested with for carrying on the Cherokee expedition, under which
direction I marched a number of mounted militia to King's moun-
tain, S. C. Wm. Campbell (Col.)"
June 16, 1781.
Endorsed on back.
1780 certificate of Colonel William Campbell respecting King's
mountain expedition.
The situation to the south of Virginia at this time was truly
alarming. The British had captured Charleston, with General
Lincoln and his entire army, early in this year, and the war was
transferred to the Carolinas and Georgia. General Gates, who
had captured the British army at Saratoga and was in command
of the Southern army during this year, was disastrously defeated
at Camden, and Colonel Sumpter and his body of patriots had
been cut to pieces by Colonel Tarleton at Pishing creek. Detach-
ments from the British army were scattered throughout South
Carolina and Georgia. Colonel Buford and his Virginia forces
had been defeated and cut to pieces by Tarleton's cavalry at the
Waxhaw's, and every preparation was being made by Lord Corn-
wallis to overrun with his victorious army the States of North
Carolina and Virginia in the order named. Lord Cornwallis had
placed the command of the western borders of North Carolina and
South Carolina under Colonel Patrick Ferguson, one of the ablest
British commanders at that time in the field, and he had overrun
and destroyed the Whig forces in his territory to such an extent
that the officers and men of the Whig forces were driven across
the mountains to the Holston settlements. A portion of the mili-
I tia of Sullivan and Washington comities. North Carolina, under
306 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
the comanand of Colonel Isaac Shelby, had been in the service of
the State and had exhibited a great deal of ability and prowess at
the battles of Miisgi-ove's Mill and Cane Creek, after which they
retired to their homes without suffering any inconvenience from
Ferguson or his forces. Colonel Ferguson was greatly embittered
toward the forces from the Holston or back waters (as it was then
termed), and when he arrived at Gilberttown, he paroled a Whig
prisoner by the name of Samuel Phillips, a relative of Colonel
Isaac Shelby, and sent him to deliver a message to the officers of
militia on the waters of the Holston, Watauga and Nolichucky,
which message was as follows :
"If they did not desist from their opposition to the British arms
he would march his army over the mountains, hang their leaders,
and lay their country waste with fire and sword." There can be no
question that Colonel FergusO'n was well informed of the situa-
tion of the western settlers and the route by which he could reach
their country, for at that time there were in his army a number of
Tories from Ihe back waters.
A crisis had been reached in the struggle for liberty, and now
at the darkest hour in the struggle of tlie patriots, the opportunity
and the men have met, when a band of western frontiersmen were
to strike a telling blow for the cause of liberty and all America.
Phillips immediately crossed the mountains and delivered the mes-
sage to Colonel Shelby as directed, and gave him such infornuition,
in addition thereto', as he had in regard to the strengtli and posi-
tion of Ferguson and his men. Colonel Shelby immediately ad-
dressed a letter to Colonel Williaui Campbell, of Washington
county, Virginia, and sent it by express by liis brother, Moses
Shelby, while Colonel Shelby went to the home of Colonel Jolm
Sevier and informed him of Ferguson's threats, and suggested
means by which they might embody a force sufficient to surprise
and attack Ferguson in his camp and prevent the imjx^nding stroke.
To the propositions of Colonel Slielby, Colonel Sevier readily
agreed. On tlie 18th day of September, 1780, Cplonel Charles Mc-
Dowell, of "Quaker Meadows," North Carolina, and Colonel An-
drew Hampton, of South Carolina, patriot leaders, with about one
hundred and sixty men, arrived at Colonel John Carter's in Carter's
Valley, fleeing from Ferguson and his forces. These men were
consulted by Colonel Shelby, and a time and place appointed for
Washington County, 1777-1870. 307
the assembling of all the forces that could be enlisted for this expe-
dition, at the Sj^cainore shoals or flats, on the Watauga river,
about three miles below the present town of Elizabethton, Tennes-
see. It is stated by many writers on the subject that Colonel Wil-
liam Campbell refused to join Shelby in this expedition when first
approached upon the subject, and that he consented only upon the
receipt of a second and more urgent request, but I do not know
upon what authority this statement is made, for on the 6th day
of September of this year Colonel Campbell was at Bethabara,
Surry county, jSTorth Carolina, with the Washington county mili-
tia, suppressing and preventing insurrection among the Tories in
that section, and it is evident to any one acquainted with the coun-
try that he must have marched his men immediately from that
point to Washington courthouse, and from there to the Sycamore
Shoals, to have reached that point on the 35th of September. I do
not think there can be any doubt that Colonel Campbell joined
in this expedition very heartily, upon the receipt of information
from Shelby, and that he, with the Washington county forces, en-
tered u])on this expedition with the greatest of enthusiasm, as is
evidenced by the large numbers of volunteers collected and the
rapidity of their movements.
It is reasonable to suppose that Colonel Arthur Campbell was
busy enlisting the militia of this county and equipping them for
this expedition while Colonel William Campbell and his men were
returning from TsTorth Carolina. Colonel Arthur Campbell, in
speaking of the situation of the Southern Colonies, said : "The tale
of McDowell's men was a doleful one, and tended to excite the
resentment of the people, who, of late, had become inured to danger
by fighting the Indian, and who had an utter detestation of the
tyranny of the British Government.
Upon the arrival of Colonel William Campbell, in Abingdon,
on the 22d day of September, 1780, it was decided that two hundred
of the militia of this county should accompany him upon this expe-
dition. The men seemed animated with a spirit of patriotism and
asseml)led at Wolf creek, near the Bradley farm west of Abingdon,
from which point they marched immediately for the Sycamore
Shoals, arriving at that point on the 25th day of September, accord-
ing to appointment. Colonel William Campbell did not accompany
the men to Sycamore shoals, he going by Colonel Shelby's at Sap-
308 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
ling grove (n()^y Bristol), while his men followed tJie Watauga
road. Colonel Artlmr Campbell, who had been left at Abingdon
with a portion of the militia to defend the inhabitants of the county
against any Indian invasion, at the earnest solicitation of tlic
militia under his command, and wisliing to give all possible strength
to the expedition against Colonel Ferguson, on the 24th day of
September left Abingdon with an additional two hundred men
for the Sycamore shoals, and arrived on the 2Gth, just as the little
army of mountaineers were preparing to march for the Carolinas.
The approach of Colonel Arthur Campbell with the reinforcements
and the effect that it had upon the army are best described in the
words of a North Carolina historian:
"When nearly ready to begin the marcli, the sound of approach-
ing voices was heard once more. The camp was astir; unexpected
visitors were discovered in the distance ; nearer they came, and recog-
nition was announced by a wild shout of joy, and Colonel Arthur
Campbell led two hundred men into the camp. One thousand and
fifty voices now made the welkin ring with their glad acclaim. Col-
onel Campbell, fearing that there might not be men enough to
secure certain victory, determined, after Colonel William Campbell
had left, to reinforce his strength. This being now done, he bade
Ills men 'Godspeed' and a hearty 'goodbye,' and returned to his
liome again."*
Thus it will be seen that the militia of Washington county were
not only willing to go when required to do so, but were anxious to
strike a blow for their altars and their homes, and it is reasonable
to suppose that, if the country had been free from the fear of an
Indian war, twice four hundred men would have voluntarily accom-
panied Colonel Campbell upon this expedition.
Let us take a look at the little army of patriots assembled at the
Sycamore shoals. This army was made up and commanded as
follows :
Colonel William Campbell, 400 men
Colonel Isaac Shelby, 240 men
Colonel John Sevier, 240 men
Colonel Charles McDowell and Andrew Hampton, .... 160 men
The money to equip the North Carolina militia was obtained by
*«
Schenk, N. C, 1780-1781.
Workington County, 1777-1870. ' 309
Colonels Sevier and Shelby from John Adair, the North Carolina
entrytaker, in Washington county, N'orth Carolina; but the Vir-
ginia militia under Campbell were equipped by the Washington
county authorities and paid by the State of Virginia. Every mem-
ber of this little army, with but few exceptions, was dressed in the
woolen clothes manufactured by his wife and daughters, and wore
a fur-skin cap.
A distinguished historian describes in such an interesting way
the appearance of these mountaineers as they began their march,
that I give his statements in regard thereto :
"Their fringed and tasseled hunting-shirts were girded in by
bead-worked belts, and the trappings of their horses were stained
red and yellow. On their heads they wore caps of coon-skin or
minJc-skin, with the tails hanging down, or else felt hats, in each
of which was thrust a buck's tail or a sprig of evergreen. Every
man carried a small bore rifle, a tomahawk and a scalping knife.
A very few of the officers had swords, and there was not a bayonet
nor a tent in the army."*
It would seem from the descriptions given by historians in speak-
ing of this expedition, that the men were very poorly equipped, but,
from an inspection of the records of this county, it will be found
that the estates of the men killed at the battle of King's Mountain
were valued very high, and that no part of their property was more
valuable than their equipments at the time they were killed, a sam-
ple of which is as follows; appraised value :f
"One blue broadcloth and linen jacket, £150
"One pair of leather breeches, 75
"One great coat, 150
"One horse, 600
"Every member of this little army was equipped with a Deckard
rifle, and they were not only splendid horsemen but excellent
marksmen ; and by the warfare that they had been carrying on with
the Indians they were accustomed to every kind of danger and
hardship. They had oftentimes heard of the wrongs of their Whig
kinsmen to the South; not only from Colonels McDowell and
Hampton and their men, but from General Clarke, of Georgia, and
his men, and they were determined, if possible, to prevent the
*Winniiig of the West.
fCaptain Wm. Edmiston estate.
310 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
advance of Colonel Ferguson to this side of the mountain, and to '
rescue their brethren to the South from their sad plight.
"On the 26th day of the month when they were ready to march,
the men assembled in a grove, and there the Eev. Samuel Doak, a
Presbyterian preacher, the pioneer clergyman of the frontiers,
made a few remarks befitting the occasion, closing the same with the
Bible quotation: 'The sword of the Lord and of Gideon.' And
while these stern hardy men bowed their heads in reverence, this
good man invoked on the expedition the blessings of the Lord. He
recounted the dangers that surrounded his congregation from the
savages in their rear and the British in their front; and reciting
the promises of mercy contained in the word of their Grod, he
earnestly prayed for protection to their families and success to
those who were marching to defend their homes and liberty; and
so effective were his prayers that tears, stole down the cheeks of
many of the rough and hardy mountaineers. After this the army
mounted their horses and commenced their march for South Caro-
lina. The route pursued by these men upon this march is a matter
of considerable interest to their descendants, and I give the route as
described by Draper in his history of the 'Battle of King's Moun-
tain.'
"Leaving the S3'camore shoals, they probably ate their dinner at
Clark's mill on Gap creek, three miles from the shoals ; they thence
passed up Gap creek to its head, where they bore to the left, cross-
ing Little Doe river, passing on to the 'resting place' at the Shelv-
ing Eock, about a mile beyond Crab Orchard and about twenty
miles from the shoals, where they encam])ed for the night. At
this place a number of their horses were shod by a man by the nauje
of Miller.
"The next morning they were delayed for some time in butchering
several of their cattle, after which they passed on about four miles.
Beaching the base of the Yellow and Boan ]\rountains, they
ascended the mountain, following Bright's trace, through a gap
between Yellow mountain on the north and Boan niiountain on the
soutli. When they had reached the table-land on top of the moim-
tain, they found it covered with snow shoe-mouth deep, on the sum-
mit of which there were about one hundred acres of beautiful table-
land and a fine spring that ran over into the Watauga. In tliis field
the soldiers were paraded under their respective! officers and were
Washington County, 1777-1870. 3li
ordered to discharge their rifles, and such was the rareness of the
atniospliere that there was little or no report. This body of table-
land is known as the 'Bald Place/ or 'the Bald of the Yellow.'
"At this point two men from Colonel John Sevier's company
deserted. Their names were James Crawford and Samuel Cham-
bers. It was suspected that they would make their way to Colonel
Ferguson and inform him of the coming of the backwoodsmen, and
this suspicion was correct. Upon the discovery of this fact, it was
decided by the commanders that they would not pursue the route
previously proposed, but would pass by a more northerly route, so as
to confuse Ferguson, should he send spies to make discoveries.
After they had refreshments they passed on down the mountain a
few miles into Elk Hollow, a low place between the Yellow and
Eoan mountains, where, at a fine spring, they encamped for the
night. On the 28th they descended Eoaring creek to the North
Toe river, and thence down the Toe to a noted spring on the Daven-
port place, since Tate's, and now known as Child's Place, where
they probably rested, and thence down to the mouth of Grassy creek,
where they encamped and rested for the night. On the 29th they
passed up Grassy creek to its head, and over Blue Eidge at Gilles-
pie's gap to Cathey's mill, where they camped. The country that
they had passed through to this point cannot be excelled in roman-
tic grandeur anywhere on earth. It was excellently watered, broken
by high moamtains and interspersed with beautiful valleys. A
ISTorth Carolina historian, in speaking of this country, says: "If
we were to meet an army with music and banners we would hardly
notice it. Man and all his works and all his devices are sinking
into insignificance. We feel that we are approaching nearer and
nearer to the Almighty Architect. We feel in all things about us
the presence of the great Creator. A sense of awe and reverence
comes over us, and we expect to find in this stupendous temple we
are approaching none but men of pure hearts and benignant minds.
But, by degrees, as we clamber up the winding hill, the sensation
of awe gives way, new scenes of beauty and grandeur open upon our
ravished visions, and a multitude of emotions swell within our
hearts. We are dazzled, bewildered and excited, we know not how
nor why ; our souls expand and swim through the immensity before
and around us, and our beings seem merged into the infinite and
glorious works of God. This is the country of the fairies; and here
312 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
they liave their shaded dells^ their mock mountains and their green
valleys, thrown into ten thousand shapes of beauty. But higher
up are the Titian hills ; and when w© get among them we will find
the difference between abodes of the giants and their elfin neigh-
bors,"
At Cathey's mill the troops were divided, Campbell, with his
men, following a trail six miles south to Wofi'ord Fort, the others
going to Honey Cut creek, at which point Colonel Charles McDow-
ell, who had left the Sycamore shoals in advance of the troops to
notify the Carolina Whigs of the coming of the mountain men,
rejoined the army. And, on Saturday morning, the 30th day of
September, the mountain men passed over Silver and Linville
mountains in an easterly course, and down Paddle's creek to
"Quaker Meadows," where the fatted calf was killed and the moun-
tain men regaled themselves in the beautiful valley. Soon thereafter.
Colonel Benjamin Cleveland and Major Winston joined the moun-
tain men with three hundred and fifty North Carolinians from the
counties of Surry and Wilkes.
It may be interesting to our readers to know that Surry county.
North Carolina, joined Virginia on the south, and embraced that
portion of North Carolina now included in the present counties of
Ashe, Alleghany, Watauga and Mitchell, our nearest neighbors to
the south.
On Sunday morning, October 1st, the Wliigs left "Quaker
Meadows" with light hearts and eager footsteps, believing that they
would soon be upon Ferguson and his corps. They rapidly advanced,
passing Pilot moimtain, and in the evening encamped in a gap
of the South mountain, near where the heads of Cane and Silver
creeks interlock each other, and on Monday they remained in camp
for the day because of the rain that was constantly falling. On this
day it was decided that it was necessary to have a military head to
their organization, and Colonel McDowell was dispatched to General
Gates, requesting him to send forward a general officer to take
the command. The letter addressed by the officers to General Gates
and forwarded by Colonel McDowell was as follows :
Rutherford County, Camp near Gilberttown,
October 1st, 1780.
Sir : — We have now collected at this place about 1,500 good men,
diawn from the counties of Surry, Wilkes, Burke, Washington and
Washington County, 1777-1870. 313
Sallivan comities in this State, and Washington county in Virginia,
and expect to be joined in a few days by Colonel Clarke, of Georgia,
and Colonel Williams, of South Carolina, with about 1.000 Tuore.
As w« have at this time called out our inintia withoiit any orders
from the Executives of our different States, and with tbo view of
expelling the enemy out of this part of the country, we think such a
body 0^ men worthy of your attention, and would request you to
send a general officer immediately to take the command of such
troops as may embody in this quarter. Our troops being all militia
and but little acquainted with discipline, we would wish him to be
a gentleman of address and able to keep up a proper discipline \^'ith-
out disgiTsting the soldiery. Every assistance in our power shall
be given the officer you may thinlc proper to take the command of us.
It is the wish of such of us as are acquainted with G-eneral David-
son and Colonel Morgan (if in service) that one of these gentlemen
may be appointed to the command.
We are in great want of ammunition, and hope you will endeavor
to have us properly furnished with that article.
Colonel McDowell will wait upon you with this, who can inform
you of the present situation of the enemy, and such other particulars
respecting our troops as you may think necessary.
*We are, sir, your most obedient and very humble ser'ts.
(Signed) BENJ. CLEVELAND,
ISAAC SHELBY-,
JOHN LOED,
AND'W HAMPTON,
WM. CAMPBELL,
JO. WINSTON.
Isaac Shelby, in his old age, made the statement that Colonel
McDowell was dispatched upon this mission for the purpose ol dis-
posing of his services, as he, by reason of his age, was too slow and
too inactive for the command of such an enterprise as they were
then engaged in, and this statement has been repeated by most his-
torians. While it may be true, there can be no good reason for
believing the statement, for, at this time. Colonel McDowell was
only thirty-seven years of age, was an active and very intelligent
*( From original of "Gates papers" in'possession of the New York Historical
society. )
314 Southwest Virginia, 17Ji6-1786.
man and had seen a great deal of service, before that time, in his
campaigns against the invaders.
It is much more reasonable to believe that Colonel McDowell,
being the commanding officer in the coimty where the army was
tlien stationed and knowing the country well, of his own accord
jiroposed to deliver tliis message to General Gates. IT^^on the depart-
ure of Colonel JMcDowell the other colonels assemliled and elected
Colonel AVilliam Campbell, of Washington coimty, to command the
whole, upon the suggestion of Isaac Shelby, who had, previously
to this timie, always from his earliest manhood taken orders from
Colonel Canipl^ell, who had served as an officer in the Continental
army.
On the morning of the 5th of October, the mountain nien made
preparations to march from their camp to the gap at South moun-
tain, expecting to find Colonel Ferguson at Gilberttown and attack
liini. Before beginning the march, Colonel Cleveland requested the
troops to form a circle, promising to tell them the news. After
which, he came within the circle, accompanied by the other officei*s,
and taking off his hat, addressed the troops as follows :
"Now, my brave fellows, I have come to toll you the news. The
enemy is at hand and we must up and at them. Now is the time
for every man of you to do his country a priceless service, such as
shall lead your children to exult in the fact that their fathers were
the conquerors of Ferguson. When the pincli comes I sliall l)e with
you. But if any of you shrink from sliaring in the battle and the
glory, you can now have the opportunity of l)acking out and leaving;
and you shall have a few minutes for considering the uiatter."
After which Major McDowell and Colonel Shelby uiade a few
remarks and requested all those who liesitated about going further
to step back three paces to the rear when the word was given. When
the word was given not one member of that army accepted the priv-
ilege, but a shout went up from the assemlbled hosts when it was
ascertained that there was not a coward or a slink in that little
army. After this the army marched down Cane creek a few mile'^
and encamped for the night. On the following day they reached a
point near Gilberttomi and ascertained that Ferguson, hearing
of their coming, had retreated.
Colonel Ferguson, upon hearing of the approach of the mountain
men, dispatched two messengers to Comwallis, requesting assist-
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 315
anee at once, and issued the following proclamation to the country :
"Gentlemen: — Unless yon wish to be eat up by an inundation of
barbarians, who have begun by murdering an unarmed son before
an aged father, and afterwards lopped off his arms, and who, by
thoir shocking cruelties and irregularities, give the best proof of
their cowardice and want of discipline; I say, that if you wish to
be pinioned, robbed and murdered, and vSee your wives and daugh-
ters in four days abused by the dregs of mankind; in short, if you
wish to deserve to live and bear the name of men, grasp your arms
in a moment and run to camp. The 'Back Water' men have
crossed the mountains; McDowell, Hampton, Shelby and Cleve-
land are at their head, so that you know what you have to depend
ii})on. If you choose to be degraded forever and ever by a. set of
mongrels, say sO' at once, and let your women turn their backs upon
yoii and look out for real men to protect them.
PAT. FEEGUSON,
Major 71st Eegiment."
He then retreated to Green river, where he gave out that he was
retreating to Fort Ninety-six, South Carolina. He then proceeded
to Dennard's Fort, on Broad river, from which point he marched
about four miles on the 2d day of October and lay on his arms all
that night expecting an attack, and on the 3d day of October he
marched to Tate's place, where he sent the following message to
Cornwallis :
"My Lord : — I am on my march to' you by a road leading from
C*herokee Ford, nortli of King's mountain. Three or four hundred
good soldiers could finish this business. Something must be done
soon. This is their last push in this quarter.
"PATEICK FEEGUSON"."
The position occupied by Ferguson at this time was sixteen miles
northeast of King's mountain and thirty-five miles west of Char-
lotte, the headquarters of Cornwallis.
It seems that it was the intention of Ferguson, when he began
his retreat from Gilberttown to join Cornwallis at Charlotte, with
all possible speed, but, for some strange reason, he was impelled to
march to the southwest, where he was to meet his destiny and lose
his life. He reached King's mountain on the evening of the 6th
of October, where he pitched his camp and made all necessary pre-
parations to defend his position, and gave utterance to the follow-
316 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
ing sacrilegious boast: "That he was on King's mountain, that
he was king of that mountain, and God Almighty could not drive
him from it."
The position occupied by Comwallis and where the battle was
fought, is in York county. South Carolina, about one and a half
miles south of the State line. That portion of the mountain upon
which the battle was fought was nothing more than an oblong hill
or stony ridge, some six hundred yards long and about two hun-
dred and fifty yards across from one base to the other, and from
sixty to one hundred and twenty yards on the top, tapering to the
south. "So narrow," says Mill's Statistics, "that a man, standing
on it, may be shot from either side." The top of the ridge is about
sixty feet above the level of the surrounding country.
Many of the participants in the battle of King's mountain
thought that they could see a resemblance to^ that battleground in
the ridge south of and near to Abingdon, and to this they gave th^^
name of King's mountain, which name it bears at the present time.
The principal elevation on this range of mountains in South
Carolina was about six miles from the battleground.
We left the mountain men near Gilberttown, where they were
informed that Ferguson had retreated some fifty or sixty miles in
the direction of Fort ISTinety-Six ; which information greatly
depressed them, but they determined to pursue, which they did
immediately, as far as Dennard's Ford, where they lost the trail for
awhile, but they proceeded to Alexander's Ford of Green river,
where the officers determined to select their best men, best hoi'scs
and best rifles, and to pursue Ferguson unremittingly and overtake
him before he could receive reinforcements or reach any fort that
would give him protection. The mountain men were for some time
perplexed by the movements of Ferguson, and were unable to tell by
what route he had fled, but soon ascertained from a Whig sympa-
thizer, that Ferguson, on the evening of the 5th, had written a loi-
ter to Lord Cornwallis and had taken a position on the following
day at King's moimtain.
The number of men selected on the night of the 5th of October,
to make the forced march to overtake Ferguson, was about seven
hundred, thus leaving behind abo'ut six hundred and ninety men.
The Carolina troops thus left behind, were in charge of Major
Joseph Herndon, of Cleveland's regiment, and that portion of
Washington County, 1777-1870. 317
CampbeU's regiment left behind were in charge of Captain William
Neil. The men selected were all well mounted, while those left
behind were not. But Colonel Campbell placed the Washington
county troops in charge of an officer of much energy of character,
to whom he gave directions to do ever3d;hing in his power to expe-
dite the march of the troops placed in his charge, by pushing them
forward as fast as possible.
Campbell, with the mounted men, started in pursuit of Ferguson
on the morning of the 6th of October, passing in a southerly direc-
tion to the Sandy Plains, thence southeasterly to the Cowpens,
about twenty-one miles, which point they reached shortly after sun-
set, where they found Colonels Hill, Lacy, Williamis and Graham,
with their forces. On this day, they passed in the immediate vicin-
ity of several large bodies of Tories, one of which numbered six
hundred. "The riflemen from the mountains had turned out to
catch Ferguson, and this was their rallying cry from the day they
left the Sycamore shoals on the Watauga.^'* 4
They did not intend to be diverted from their object, and there-
fore did not waste any time on the small parties along their way.
Ensign Kobert Campbell, of the Virginia troops, in his diary says :
"That he was dispatched with a party of eighty men to break up the
party of six hundred Tories stationed near the Cowpens, but that
they had moved before the mountaineers reached the Cowpens and
could not be overtaken that night."
Captain Colvill undertook to surprise this same company the
following night, but met with no better success.
While the troops were stationed at the Cowpens, a Whig spy, who
was a crippled man, reported to the Whig chiefs, that he had visited
the camp of Ferguson, and ascertained his plans, and that his forces
did not exceed 1,500 men, which information encouraged the moun-
tain men very much, but, as a matter of precaution, Enoch Gil-
more, another spy, was sent out to gain tlie latest intelligence in
regard to the movements of the enemy, which he did, and returned
to the camp of the mountain men on the evening of the 6th, When
the march was begun from the Cowpens on the evening of the 6th,
the whole number of mounted men was 900, besides a squad of
footmen numbering about fifty.
The march from the Cowpens to King's mountain was made by
*Draper's King's Mountain.
318 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
night and there was a drizzle of rain failing during most of the
time. Campbell's men lost their way, and, on the morning of the
7th, it was ascertained that they were not more than five miles
from the Cowpens, but they soon joined the main force and pushed
rapidly forward in an easterly direction, passing the Cherokee Ford
and on to Beason's where they halted for a short while and learned
that Ferguson was only nine miles off and in camp.
As Colonel Campbell rode off froui this point, a girl followed,
and, calling to him, asked: "How many of you are there?"
"Enough to wliip Ferguson if we can find him," was the reply,
whereupon the girl, pointing her finger in a direct line to King's
mountain, said : "He is on that mountain."
Several persons were captured between this point and Ferguson's
camp, one of the number being a man by the name of John Pon-
der, upon whose person was found a message from Ferguson to
Comwallis imploring assistance. Another was Henry Watkins, a
Whig, whom Ferguson had just released, and who gave the moun-
tain men accurate information of Ferguson and his situation.
At this point the mountain men were drawn up in two lines, two
men deep. Colonel Campbell leading the right and Colonel Cleve-
land the left, and proceeded on their march. When they came near
to the mountain, they moved up a branch between two rocky knobs,
beyond which the enemy's camp was in full view, 550 yards in
front of them. This was at about 3 o'clock in the evening. Orders
were given for the men to dismount and tie their horses, and to tie
their blankets and coats to the saddles, and a few men were detailed
to guard them. This was on the east side of King's creek, after
which the order was given to the men, "Fresh prime your guns, and
every man go into battle firmly resolved to fight till he dies."
The army of Ferguson numbered about 1,100 men, the two
armies being about equal in number, but there was a considerable
difference in the motives which prompted them to fight. The Tories
were fighting for the honor of their king. That was one and various
other motives might be mentioned; while, on the other hand, the
Whigs fought for the liberty and independence of the American
Colonies, for the right to exercise their religious views without
restraint and to protect their homes and families from unprincipled
Tories and savage Indians.
Washington County^ 1777-1870. 319
Dr. Draper, in speaking of tlie Virginia troops who participated
in tliis battle, says:
"Those men from the Holston under Campbell were a pecidiar
people, somewhat of the character of Cromwell's people. They were,
almost to a man, Presb}i;erians. In their homes in the Holston
Valley they were settled in pretty compact congregations, quite tena-
cious of their religious and civil liberties, as handed down from
father to son from their Scotch-Irish ancestors. Their preacher,
Eev. Charles Cummings, was well fitted for the times; a man of
piety and sterling patriotism, who constantly exerted himself to
encourage his people to make every needed sacrifice, and put forth
every possible exertion in defence of the liberties of their country.
They were a remarkable body of men, botli physically and mentally.
Inured to frontier life, raised mostly in Augusta and Eockbridge
counties, Virginia, a frontier region in the French and Indian war,
they early settled on the Holston, and were accustomed from their
childhood to border life and hardships ; ever ready at the tap of the
drum to turn out on military service; in the busiest crop season,
their wives, sisters and daughters could, in tlieir absence, plant and
sow and harvest.
They were better educated than most of the frontier settlers and
had a moTc thorough understanding of the questions at issue
between the Colonies and their mother country. These men went
forth to strike their country's foes, as did the patriarchs of old, feel-
ing assured that the God of battles was with them and that he would
surely crown their efforts with success. They had no doubts noT
fears. They trusted in God and kept their powder dry. Such a
thing as a coward was not known among them. How fitting it was
that to such a band of men should have been assigned, by Camp-
bell's own good judgment, the attack on Ferguson's choicest troops,
his Provincial Eangers. It was a happy omen of success, literally
the forlorn hope, the right men in the right place."
The two armies now confronted each other, the decisive moment
was at hand, and the mountain men were eager to pounce upon their
prey.
Colonel Campbell arranged his forces in two divisions, making
each division as nearly equal as possible, the two divisions to sur-
roi-nd the mountain. Campbell was to lead the Virginians across
the southern end of the ridge and southeast side, then Sevier's regi-
320 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
ment and McDowell's and Winston's battalions were to form a
column on the right wing, northeast of Campl)ell and in the order
named, under the command of Colonel John Sevier. Shelby's regi-
ment was to take a position on the left of the mountain, opposite
to Campbell, and form the left center, Camphell's left and Shelby's
right coming together, beyond Shelby was placed Williams's com-
mand, including Brandon, Hammond and Candler, then the South
Carolinians under Lacy, Hathorn and Steen, with the remainder
of the Wilkes and Surry men under Cleveland, together with the
Lincoln troops under Chronicle and Hambright. The regiments or
companies in the order named surrounded the mountain; Campbell
on the southeast, then Sevier, McDowell, Winston, Hambright,
Cleveland, Lacy, Williams and Shelby. Campbell was tx3 swing
to the north the left of his column and Shelby to the
south with his right wing, so that the two columns should
cross the mountain at its southwestern extremity ; and when all the
companies were in position to form a complete cordon around the
mountain, which was to be drawn closer to the center as the battle
progressed. Colonel Campbell, when everything was in readiness,
visited in person every command in the little army, and said to
the men : "That if any of them, men or officers, were afraid, to quit
the ranks and go home; that he wished no man to engage in the
action who could not fight. That as for himself he was determined
to fight the enemy a week, if need be, to gain the victory."*
He gave the necessary orders to his subordinate officers and placed
himself at the head of his own regiment.
Many of the men threw aside their hats, tying handkerchiefs
around their heads so as to be less likely toi be retarded by limbs and
bushes when dashing up the mountain.
The march began for the battleground, and when the mountain
men were discovered by Colonel Ferguson, the shrill whistle used
by him was distinctly heard, summoning his followers to arms ; the
battle drums were beaten and every preparation was made in the
British camp for battle.
A party of Colonel Shelby's men captured some of the enemy's
pickets without firing a gun.
In ordering the battle Colonel Campbell had directed each com-
pany of his army to listen for the Indian "war whoop" from the
*Draper's King's Moiantains.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 321
center colmnn when everything was ready for the attack. When
heard, the army was to rush forward upon the enemy, doing all pos-
sible damage and repeating the same "war-whoop."
The first firing occurred in the vicinity of Shelby's men, and
before they had taken their position for the battle, but, they were
not permitted to return the fire, until they had gained their desig-
nated position. Colonel Shelby directed his men to press on to their
places and then their fire would not be lost. Colonel Campbell,
about the timie this firing began, taking his position in front of his
men, tlirew off his coat and shouted at the top of his voice. "Here
they are, my brave boys ; shout like h — 1 and fight like devils !" The
woods immediately resounded with shouts of the line, in which they
were heartily joined, first by Shelby's corps, and then the shouting
was instantly caught up by the others along the two wings."*
At the same time, Captain Andrew Colvill, of the Virginia troops,
and Major Micajah Lewis and Captain Joel Lewis, with their troops
were directed by Colonel Campbell to charge the British main guard,
about one half way up the spur of the mountain, which they did,
and at this point, the first heavy fighting between the two armies
t'.ok place. The charge was made by the mountaineers with such
A\']for that the British guard was forced to retreat, leaving some of
their men killed and wounded, and the Virginia troops lost Lieu-
tenant Eobert Edmiston and John Beattie of Colvill's company,
killed, and Lieutenant Samuel Newell of this same company was
wounded, but Newell secured a horse, which he mounted and
returned to the conflict. At this time an incident occurred which
is preserved, and is here given.
One of the mountaineers came within rifle shot of a British sen-
tinel before the latter perceived him. On discovering the Ameri-
can, he discharged his musket and ran with all speed toward the
camp on the hill. This 'adventurous Whig, who had pressed for-
ward considerably in advance of his fellows, quickly dismounted,
leveled his rifle, firing at the retreating Briton, the ball striking
him in the back of the head, when he fell and expired."*
The position assigned to Colonel Campbell's men was the most
difficult of ascent of any part on the ridge, being very rocky and
steep, but they were not to be deterred by such obstacles, pressing
up the mountain little by little until they had reached near the
^Draper's King's Mountains.
322 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
top O'f tlie hill, firing all the time. When they had reached this
point Colonel Ferguson ordered his Eangers tO' charge the Virginia
troops with fixed bayonets, which they did. The Virginia troops
stood their ground for some time, but were forced to retreat down
the mountain. Colonel Campbell and Major Edmiston, with the
assistance of Lieutenant Newell, rallied the Virginia troops. Colo-
nel Campbell led his men again to the conflict, and by constant
and well-directed fire the Virginians drove the enemy back and
reached the summit of the mountain, when the m^imitain was cov-
ered Avith flame and smoke and seemed to thunder."*
Colonel Shelby, in speaking of tlie conduct of the Virginians at
this time, says :
"Campbell, with his division, ascended the hill, killing all that
came in his way, till, coming near enough to the main l>ody of the
enemy who were posted upon the summit, he poured in upon them
a most deadly flre. The enemy, with flxed bayonets, advanced upon
his troops, who gave way and went down the hill, where they rallied
and formed again and advanced."!
During this last attack Lieutenant Robert Edmiston, Jr., was
wO'Unded in the arm and sought shelter behind a tree, where John
Craig bandaged his arm, when Edmiston exclaimed : "Let us at it
again," and returned to the front as if he had not been wounded.
A noted historian, in speaking of this incident, has said : "Of such
grit was Campbell's Holston soldiers coui]>osed ; and as long as
there was any fighting to be done for their country and they could
stand upon their feet, they never failed to share largely in it."
While Campbell's men were engaged with the British Rangers, Colo-
nel Shelby was pressing the «iemy from the southwestern end of
the mountain to such an extent that Ferguson was forced to with-
draw his Rangers from that quarter and to charge Shelby's column,
which, in turn, were forced to retreat before tlie Britishi Rangers,
but they were rallied at the foot of the hill, wlien Shelby addressed
his men as follows: "Now, boys, quickly reload your rifles, and
let's advance upon them and give them another h — 1 of fire !"*
Campbell's and Shelby's men were engaged for fully ten minutes
before the other forces reached their position, after which time
Ferguson and his forces were assailed from all quarters by the rifle-
*Draper's King's Mountains.
tCol. Shelby's letter to Col. Arthur Campbell, October, 1780.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 333
men, who, pressing np the ridge, protected themselves behind the
trees, constantly firing on the British forces.
Sliortly after the opening of the battle it was discovered that a
portion of Ferguson's forces had concealed themselves behind a
chain of rocks at a very dangerous point, from which they success-
fully assailed the mountain men.
Colonel Shelby directed Ensign Eobert Campbell, with a com-
pany of Virginia troops, to move to the right and to dislodge the
men from their position, wliich Campbell did, and led his men
within forty steps of them, when he discovered that the Virginia
troops had been driven down the hill. Then he gave orders to his
men to post themselves opposite to the rocks and near to the enemy,
\\'hile he assisted in rallying Colonel Campbell's men, which orders
were oljeyed, Ensign Campbell's men keeping up such a deadly
fire on the British, that Colonel Ferguson was compelled to order
a strong force to assist the men placed among the rocks, but they
were compelled to retire to another position on the mountain be-
fore the close of the action. The batttle was now raging all around
tlie mountain: the report of hundreds of rifles and muskets, the
loud commands of the officers, the Indian "war-whoops" constantjy
given by the mountaineers, and the shrill noise made by Fergu-
son's whistle, conspired to make a tumult never to be forgotten
and seldom experienced by men.
Colonel Lacy, with the South Carolinians ; ]\f ajor Chronicle,
with his North Carolina forces; Colonels Shelby and Sevier, with
the Holston forces; Colonel Cleveland, with his boys from Surry,
and the other officers in this little army, magnificently vindicated
in this conflict their claim to the title of patriots. When the
British forces would attack any one command they would in turn
be assailed by the mountain men in their rear and be forced to
turn upon their pursuers, but every charge and counter-charge
saw Ferguson's ranks grow thinner and thinner, and the coil was
drawn closer and closer around the top of the mountain. Ferguson
and his forces were surrounded by the mountain men, whose
fire was so constant and deadly that it Avas with difficulty that the
British officers could rally their men. The British troops began
to give way on the southeastern side of the mountain, where they
Avere hard pressed by Campbell and Shelby, and assailed in the rear
by Cleveland, and on their flanks by McDowell and Winston. At
324 SoiifJnrr.^f Viir/inin. 17 1,0-1 ISG.
tllis lime two white \\;\\S> W^'V I'Jiiscd on the lii'ilisli line, but
Ferii'iisoii iiimicilijitcly cut tliciii down, swearing;- tliat lie would
novor sin-Tcii(l('i" to such hiimJil li. Sccini;-. however, tliat lie was
Avhi])]X'cl. with a tew ri'ieiids he made an attempt to break through
the lines of the mountain men on the southeastern side of the
mountain and make his escape. l)ut in making the effort he was
shot through with six or eight bullets. When Ferguson attempted
to make his escape a mountaineei' hy the name of Gilliland, who
had been several times -wounded, seeing his advance, attempted to
fire his gun at him, l)ut it snapped, when he called upon Eol)ert
Young, a member of his company, saying to h.im: "There is Fer-
guson; shoot him," to which Young rei)lied: "111 try and see
wdiat Sweet Li])S can do." wdiereupon he discharged his rifle and
Ferguson fell from his horse dead, and his friends were driven
back within the lines. Among the wounds received by Colonel
Ferguson w-as one through the head. He received the fatal shot
near Colonel John Sevier's company, and not far from the position
occupied by Ensign Eohert Cam])bell, who had been directed by
Colonel Shelby to dislodge the British stationed behind a ledge of
rocks as before detailed.
The last conflict between Colonel Cam])beirs men. assisted by
Colonel Shell)y"s men. and the British, lasted fully tAventy minutes,
the contestants being not more than forty yards apart. This is
said to have been the most hotly-contested part of the action.
Colonel Cam])l)ell at this time was some distance in front of
his company urging them on to victory, and while in this position
he called to his men: "T3oys, remember your lil)erty! Come on,
come on! niy brave fellows; another gun, another gun will do it!
D — n them ; we must have them out of this."*
While the British made a noble stand, they were driven to the top
of the mountain to their wagons, from which ])osition they were
driven immediately into a low place in the mountain, where they
surrendered. Colonels Camjibell and Shelby were ably assisted by
the bravery of the men under Cleveland, Lacy and Williams, who
kept up a vigorous attack from their position. Ca])tain DePeyster,
the next in command, upon the death of Colonel Ferguson, imme-
diately hois=;ted the white flag and called for quarter, wddch flag was
soon taken from his hand bv one of his officers on horseback and held
*Draper's King's Mountains.
Washiiujton Countij, 1777-1S70. 325
so high that it could be seen all along the American line. This white
flag was not the only one hoisted in the British army. At another
point a Piritisli soldier was mounted on a horse and directed to
hold up a wJiite handkerchief, wliicli ho did, and was immediately
shot down by C'hnrles Bow en, a second soldier suffering the same
fate; l)ut ujion a tliird atteinj)t Major Evan Shell)y received the
flag and prochiimed the surrender, Imt tlie mountain men who
had l)een scattered in the battle were ccmtinually coming u])
and continued to lire witliout comprehending in the heat of the
moment what had happeiu'd,'"* and many others were ignorant of
the meaning of a white riag under sucli circumstances, while others
were angered at tlie loss of rehitivcs iind friends at and before thi^
battle.
In the summer of this year Colonel 1)11 ford, in command of a
body of Virginia troops, had been siir]u-ised and his command cut
to pieces by Colonel Tarleton at the ^Vaxhaws in Xorth Carolina ;
Buford's men, Avhen surrounded by Tarleton's forces, begged for
quarter, which Tarleton declined to give, and they were cut to
pieces without mercy. The circumstances attending this slaughter
were well known to all the mountain men engaged in the battle
of King's Mountain, and the word "lUiford"' had been adopted as
the pass-word by the mountain men before engaging in this action,
and when the British were driven into the low ground hereto-
fore described, and were offering to surrender, numbers of the
mountain men were heard to cry out: "Give them Buford's play!"
and after the surrender the Americans continued to slaughter the
British for some time, notwithstanding the efforts of the Whig offi-
cers to prevent the slaughter.
About this time Colonel Campbell came running up, and, see-
ing Andrew Evans, a mendjer of his command, about to fire on the
British, knocked his gun up, exclaiming: "Evans, for God's sake,
don't shoot! It is nuirder to kill them now, for they have raised
the flag." Cani])bell, as he rushed along, repeated the order:
"Cease firing! Eor God's sake, cease firing!" Campbell there-
upon ordered Captain DePeyster, the British officer, to dismount,
calling out to the British forces: "Officers, rank by yourselves. Pri-
soners, take off vour hats and sit down." The mountaineers were.
^Drapf'r's King's Mountains.
32G Southwest Virginia, 1746-17S6.
directed to surround the prisoners in one eontinuoiis circle four
deep.
Colonel Campbell then proposed to his troops "three huzzas
for liherty." At this time a small squad of Tories, who had been
sent by Colonel Ferguson on a foraging expedition, returned to
the mountain, and, not knowing of the surrender, fired upon the
mountain men, killing Colonel Williams, of South Carolina.
Colonel Campbell, acting upon his belief that Colonel Tarleton
had arrived with his detachment, ordered the men of Colonels
Williams' and Brandon's commands to fire upon the enemy, which
they did, killing about one hundred of them, when the mistake
was discovered, and the firing ceased.
Colonel DePeyster delivered his sword to Colonel Campbell,
while Captain Eyerson delivered his sword to Lieutenant Andrew
Kincannnn, of the A'irginia forces. Colonel Campbell at this
time was in his shirt sleeves, Avith his collar open, and when some
of the Americans pointed him out as their commander the British
officers at first, from his unmilitary plight, seemed to doubt it, but
a number of officers now surrendered their swords to him, and he had
several in his hands and under his arms.
The battle Avas now ended after fifty minutes of hard fighting.
Colonel Ferguson, the British commander, was killed, and the
losses in his army were as follows :
British Rangers.
Killed, 30
Wounded, 28
Prisoners, 57
Tories.
Killed, 127
Wounded, 125
Prisoners, 649
The killed and wounded in the army of the mountain men were
thirty killed and sixty wounded. Colonel Campbell's regiment of
Virginians from Washington county met with greater losses than
anj other regiment engaged in this battle, the killed being :
William Edmiston, captain.
Rees Bowen, lieutenant.
William Blackburn, lieutenant.
Eobert Edmiston, Sr., lieutenant.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 3)^7
Andrew Edmiston, ensign,
llumberson Lyon, ensign.
James Laird, ensign.
William Flower, private.
John Beattie, ensign.
James Corry, ensign.
Nathaniel Dryden, ensign.
Nathaniel Gist, ensign.
James Phillips, ensign.
Thomas McCulloch, ensign.
Elisha Pepper, private.
Henry Henniger, private.
And the woimded were as follows :
James Dysart, captain.
Samnel Newell, lieutenant.
Pobert Edmiston, Jr., lientenant.
Frederick Fisher, private.
John Scaggs, private.
Benoni Btoning, private.
Charles Kilgore, private.
William Bnllen, private.
Leonard Hyce, private.
Israel Hayter, private,
and W^illiam Moore, private.*
It is a fact worth remembering that in this contest thirteen offi-
cers and three privates of the Virginia forces were killed, being
more than one-half of all the killed in this battle, and that three
officers and eighteen privates were wounded, a little more than one-
third of the men wounded in this battle ; they were members of the
Virginia companies. Another remarkable fact connected with this
battle is that of the eight members of Colonel Campbell's regiment
by the name of Edmiston three were killed and one wounded.
Among the rocks where the Tories had posted themselves dur-
ing this battle the bodies of eighteen Tories were found, all of
whom had been shot directly through the head.
All the prisoners were placed under strong guard. The Whigs
encamped for the night on the battleground with the dead and
*The names of ten privates wounded in this battle cannot be ascertained.
328 Soiitlnrcsf Vinilvia. JlJid-TTSC). .
woundvil. and |)ass('(l i]\o iiii;hl aiiiid tlic ui-oaii^ ami laiiicntatinii-;
of tlio wounded Tories.
A great quantity of powdt'i'. lead, sl-.ot and ])i-ovisions were
eapiiircd and aiipropioiated as a result of this battle, and Fer-
guson's effects were divided among the oflfieers, his sword being
given to Colonel Se\ior. Captain Joseph ^leDowell secured six
of his china diniu'i- ])lates and a small coffee cup and saucer; Colo-
nel Shelby secured his lai'ge sih'cr whistle, whWv a smaller whistle
was obtained Ijy Elias Powell, one of his soldici's; Colonel Sevier,
his silken sash and lieutenant-coloners commission and DePey-
ster's sword; Colonel C'leveland, his riding horse; Colonel Camp-
bell, a ]>ortion of his correspondence; Samuel Talbot, of this
countv. removed his dead body from the place where it lay, and
secured his pistol, which had dro])ped from his pocket.
Dr. Draper has preserved several incidents relating to the sol-
diers from this county and their conduct in this battle, which
are here copied in full :
"During the battle Captain William Edmiston, of Campbell's
regiment, remarked to John McCrosky, one of his men, that he was
not satisfied with his ])osition, and dashed forward into the hot-
test part of the battle, and there received the charge of DePeys-
ter's Eangers, discharged his gun, then clubbed it, and knocked
the rifle out of the grasp of one of the P)ritons. Seizing him by
the neck, he made him his prisoner and brought him to the foot
of the hill. Peturning again up the mountain, he bravely fell
fighting in front of his company near his beloved colonel. His
faithful soldier, ]\IcCroskey, when the contest was ended, went in
search of his cai)tain, found him and related the great victorv
gained, wlien the dying man nodded his satisfaction at the result.
The stern (V)lonel Campbell was seen to l)r\ish away a tear, when
he saw his good friend and heroic captain stretched u])on the
ground under a ti'ee with one hand clutching his side as if to re-
sfi'ain his life-blood from ebl)ing away until the battle was over.
He heard the shout of victory as his commander and friend grasped
his other hand. Me was past speaking; but he kissed his colonel's
hand, smiled, loosed his feeble hold on life, and the Christian pa-
triot went to his reward.
"Lieutenarit Pees Bowen, A\ho commanded out' of the com|).:inies
of the Virginia reainuMit. was ol)served while marching forwai'd
Washington County, 1777-1870. 339
to attack the enemy, to make a hazardous and unnecessary expos-
ure of his person. Some friend kindly remonstrated with him :
'Wh}'^, Bowen, do you not take a tree? why rashly present your-
self to the deliberate aim of the Provincial and Tory riflemen
concealed behind every rock and busli before you? Death will in-
evitably result if you persist. Take to a tree.' He indignantly
replied : 'A''o ! Xever shall it be said that I sought safety by hiding
my person or dodging from a Briton or a Tor}' who opposed me in
the field.' Well had it been for liim and his country had he been
more prudent, and, as his superiors had advised, taken shelter
whenever it could be fovmd, for he had scarcely concluded his
brave utterance when a rifle ball struck him in the breast. He fell
and expired.
"An incident of an exciting character occurred near the close
of the contest which very nearly cost the heroic Colonel Cleve-
Umd his life. Charles Bowen, of Captain William. Edmiston's
company, of Campbell's regiment, vaguely heard that his brother
Eees Bowen had been killed, and was much distressed and exas-
perated in consequence*. On the spur of tlie moment and without
due consideration of the danger he incurred he commenced a wild
and hurried search for his brother, hoping he might yet find him
in a wounded condition only. He soon came across his own fallen
Captain p]dmiston shot in the head and dying, and, hurrying from
one jioint to another, he at length found liimself within fifteen or
twenty paces of the enemy and near to Colonel Cleveland, when he
slipped behind a tree.
"At this time the enemy began to waver and show signs of sur-
rendering. Bowen promptly shot down the first man among them
who hoisted a flag, and immediately, as the custom was, turned his
back to the tree to reload, when Cleveland advanced on foot, sus-
pecting from the wildness of his actions that he was a Tory, and
demanded the countersign, which Bowen, in his half-bewildered
state of mind had, for the time being, forgotten. Cleveland, now
confirmed in his conjectures, immediately leveled his rifle at Bow-
en's breast and attempted to shoot. l)ut, fortunately, it missed fire.
Bowen, enraged and perhajis hardly aware of his own act, jumped
at and seized Cleveland by the collar, snatched his tomahawk from
his belt, and would in another moment have Iniried it in tlie colo-
nel's l)i-ains had not his ai-ui been arrested bv a soldier named
330 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
Buchanan, who knew both parties. Bowen, now coming to himself,
recollected the countersign and gave it "Buford," when Cleveland
dropped his gun and clasped Bowen in his arms for joy that each
had so narrowly and unwittingly been restrained from sacrificing
the other. This same author, in speaking of Campbell's regiment,
says:
"No regiment had their .endurance and courage more severely
tested than Campbell's. They were the first in the onset, the first
to be charged down the declivity by Ferguson's Eangers, the first
to rally and return to the contest. Everything depended upon suc-
cessively rallying the men when first driven down the mountain.
Had they become demoralized, as did the troops at Gates' defeat
near Camden, and as did some of Greene's militia at Guilford, they
would have brought disgrace and disaster upon the Whig cause.
When repulsed at the point of the bayonet the well-known voice of
tlieir heroic commander bade them ^'halt !" Eeturn, my brave fel-
lows, and you will drive the enemy immediately !" He was
promptly obeyed, for Campbell and his officers had the full con-
fidence and control of their mountaineers: They bravely faced
about and drove the enemy in turn up the mountain. In these
desperate attacks many a hand-to-hand fight and many an act of
heroism occurred, the wonder and admiration of all beholders;
but there were so many heroic incidents where all were heroes,
that only the particulars of here and there one have been handed
down to us. Ensign Eobert Campbell, at the head of a charging
party, -with singular boldness and address, killed Lieutenant Mc-
Ginnis, a brave officer of Ferguson's Eangers."*
There is a tradition in the Bowen family that Lieutenant Eees
Bowen, when he received orders to march to King's mountain, took
with him John Bowen, his son, a mere boy, who participated in
the battle and brought home to his mother his father's bloody shoes.
A similar tradition in the Breckenridge family is to the effect
that Alexander Breckenridge, a prosperous farmer living in the
vicinity of Abingdon, was accompanied to this battle by his son,
George Breckenridge, who was under fifteen years of age, and that
he (George Breckenridge) took an active part in the battle.
On the morning of October 8th, being Sunday, Colonel Camp-
bell's army drew the British baggage wagons, numbering seventeen.
*Draper's King's Mountain.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 331
across their camiD-fires, where they were burned, and, with all the
provision that they could possibly carry, they began their return
march for the mountains with all expedition possible, fearing the
arrival of Colonel Tarleton, encumbered as they were with so many
prisoners and such a quantity of captured stores. The prisoners
Avere required to carry their own arms, as the Whigs had no other
means of conveyance.
The report was current in the camp, upon the morning the
army started on its return, that Colonel Tarleton would attempt
a rescue of the prisoners, numbering more than six hundred, and
it is stated by a distinguished Englishman, who was at that time
a prisoner, that before the troops moved Colonel Campbell gave
orders to his men that should they be attacked on the march they
should fire on and destroy the prisoners; but it is exceedingly
doubtful whether such orders were ever given.
Colonel Campbell, with a party of men, remained behind to
bury their dead countrymen, and he directed the British prison-
ers to bury their dead. The British dead were interred in two
pits — one a very large one, in which the Tories Avere laid side by
side; the other a smaller one, in which doubtless the men of Fer-
guson's corps were buried."*
The army marched that day twelve miles and encamped on the
eastern bank of Broad river. The next day they marched up Broad
river and encamped on the northern bank of Boran's river, and
on the succeeding Friday Colonel Campbell issued an order di-
recting that all the wounded soldiers who were not able to march
should be placed by the companies to Avhich they belonged at the
most suitable place they could find, Avhich was done. The army
thereafter moved much more rapidly, encamping the evening of
that day at Bickerstaff's Old Fields, where on the 14th Colonel
Campbell issued a general order deploring the many desertions
from the army and the felonies committed, by those who had
deserted, on the poverty-stricken people of the country, and appealed
to the officers under his command to suppress the bad practice.
While in camp at this point the officers from jSTorth and South
Carolina made complaints to Colonel Campbell that there were
among the prisoners a number of men who were robbers and
assassins; whereupon. Colonel Campbell ordered the convening of
*Draper's King's Mountains.
333 SouiJitrcst Virginia, 17J/0-17SG.
a court-martial to examine into the conq^laints. A copy of the
law of Xorth Carolina was obtained, which authorized a trial of
persons charged with such offences by a jury summoned by two
jiia^iistrates, and directed their execution if found onilty. The
c(uirt-iuai'tial composed of the field officers and captains, assembled
and conducted their meeting in an orderly manner. Witnesses
were examined in every case, and, during the day, thirty-six men
Mere tried and found guilty of murder, rohbery and other offences,
and sentenced to be hanged, and on the evening of the same day,
an oak tree which stood near the camp l)y the road side was
selected as a proper })lace to execute the orders of the court. The
prisoners were brought out, surrounded by the Whig troops four
deep, after which, the lianging l)egan. Three were hanged at a
time, until nine of the condemned men had been executed. Then
a young man by the name of Baldwin, a brother of one of the
criminals, approached, and, placing his arms aroamd his brother,
who was about to be hanged, wept as if his heart would l)reak, and,
while doing so, cut the cords tliat bound his brother, who darted
through the body of men and escaped, every man being so much
affected In' the actions of young Baldwin that not one man
attempted to' recapture or take his brother. At this point Colonel
Shelby interposed and proposed that the executions should cease,
and the rest of the thirty-six condemned criminals escaped hang-
ing, being pardoned by Campbell, the commanding officer.
The Toi-y leaders who were lianged at Bickerstaff were left
SAvinging to the oak tree on which they were executed, l)ut, on tli';'
following day, after the departure of Campl)eirs forces, an elderly
lady living in the community, with the assistance of one man, cut
tlie bodies down and had them l)uried.
The march of the mountaineers began on the 15th of OctolxM-,
and, after a hard day's march, through a constant down]iour of
rain, they reached "Quaker IMeadows," the borne of IVIajor IMcDow-
ell, having traveled thirty-two miles: where the troops Avere tol-
erably Avell provided for. At this point on the following day, it
Avas agreed that Colonel Lacy Avith his men should ret\irn to South
C^arolina, Avhile tlie regiments of Colonels Sevier and Shelley, Avitli
that ])ortion of Colonel Campbell's regiment that Avere on foot, were
directed to take the mountain trail and return to their homes. The
greater ijortiou of Cami)beirs regiment, with Clevehiiid, Winston
Washing Ion Counfi/, 1777-1S70. 333
iind McDowell and tlioir Xnrth Carolina troops, decided to remain
in the service and act as a guard to the prisoners. From "Quaker
Meadows," Canipheirs troo])s with their ])risoners. marched several
days in the direction of Hillshorough, arriving at Haygood's plan-
tation on Briar creek, where Colonel C^amphell discharged a portion
of his nwn; from wliich point, on the 20th, lie addressed a letter
to his hrother-in-law. Colonel Arthur Camphell, giving him an
account of the l)att]e. which letter is as follows:
Wilkes county. Cam]) on Briar Creek, October 20, 1780.
Deal- Sir: — Ferguson and his party are no more in circumstances
to injure the citizens of America.
We came uj) with him in Craven connty. South Carolina, posted
on a height called King's mountain, about twelve miles north of the
CheroktH^ ford of Broad riAcr, al)out two o'clock in the evening of
the 7th instant, we having marched the whole night before.
Colonel Shelby's regiment and mine began the attack, and sus-
tained the whole fire of the enemy for about ten minutes while the
other troops were forming around the height upon which the enemy
were posted. The firing then became general and as hea\y as yon
can conceive for the number of men. The advantageous sitnation
of the enemy — being on top of a steep ridge — oldiged us to expose
ourselves exceedingly, and the dislodging of them was equal to
driving them from strong breast-works; though, in the end, we
gained the point of the ridge, where my regiment fought, and drove
tliem along the summit, nearly to the other end, Avhere Colonel
Cleveland with his country men were. There they were drove into
a huddle, and the greatest confusion. The flag for a surrender
was immediately hoisted ; and as soon as the troops could be noticed
of it, the firing ceased, and the survivors surrendered themselves
])risoners at discretion.
The victory was complete to a wish. ^ly regiment has suffered
moi-e than any other in the action. I must proceed with the pri-
soners until 1 can some way dispose of them. Probably I may
go to Richmond in Virginia. I am, &c.,
WU. CV\MPBELL, Col. Com.
From Briar creek the army proceeded by slow marches, by Salem
to Bethabara, a Moravian village, a large majority of the inhab-
itants of which were Tories. While stationed at this point. Col-
334 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
onels Campbell, Cleveland and Shelby made their official report of
the battle of King's mountain, which report is as follows :
"A statement of the proceedings of the western army, from the
25th day of September, 1780, to the reduction of Major Ferguson
and the army under his command. On receiving intelligence that
Major Ferguson had advanced up as high as Gilberttown, in Ruth-
erford county, and threatened tO' cross the mountains to the west-
ern waters, Colonel . Campbell, with 400 men from Washington
county, Virginia, Colonel Isaac Shelby with 340 men from Sul-
liran county, jSTorth Carolina, and • Lieutenant-Colonel John
Sevier with 240 men from Washington county. North Caro-
lina, assembled at Watauga on the 25th day of September,
where they were joined by Colonel Charles McDowell, with
160 men from the counties of Burke and Rutherford, who
had fled before the enemy to the western waters. We be-
gan our march on the 26th, and on the 30th we were joined by
Colonel Cleveland on the Catawba river, with 350 men from the
counties of Wilkes and Surry. Ko one officer having properly a
right to command in chief, on the first day of October we dispatched
an express to ]\Iajor General Gates, informing him of our situation,
and requested him to send a general officer to take command of the
whole. In the meantime Colonel Campbell was chosen to act as
commandant till such general officer should arrive. We marched to
the Cowpens, on Broad river in South Carolina, where we were
joined by Colonel James Williams, with 400 men, on the evening of
the 6th of October, who informed us that the enemy lay encamped
somewhere near the Cherokee ford of Broad river, about thirty
miles distant from us. By a council ol the principal officers, it
was then thought advisable to pursue the enemy that night with
900 of the best horsemen, and leave the weak horse and footmen
to follow as fast as possible. We 43egan our march with 900 of the
best horsemen about eight o'clock the same evening, and marching
all night came up with the enemy about three o'clock, P. M., of the
7th, who lay encamped on the top of King's mountain, twelve
miles north of the Cherokee ford, in the confidence tliat they would
not be forced from so advantageous a post. Previous to the attack,
on the march, the following disposition was made : Colonel Shelby's
regiment formed a column in the center on the left; Colonel Camp-
bell's regiment another on the right; part of Colonel Cleveland's
Washington County, 1111-1810. 335
regiment, headed in front by Major Winston, and Colonel Sevier's
regiment formed a large column on the right wing; the other part
of Colonel Cleveland's regiment, headed by Colonel Cleveland him-
self, and Colonel Williams' regiment, composed the left wing. In
this order wo advanced, and got within a quarter of a mile of the
enemy before we were discovered. Colonel Shelby's and Colonel
Campbell's r(}giments began the attack, and kept up a fire while the
right and left wings were advancing to surround them, which was
done in about five minutes; the greatest part of which time a heavy
and incessant fire was kept up on both sides ; our men in some parts,
where the regulars fought, were obliged to give way a small dis-
tance, two or three times, but rallied and returned with additional
ardor to the attack. The troops upon the right having gained the
summit of the eminence, obliged the enemy to retreat along the
top of the ridge to where Colonel Cleveland commanded, and were
tliere stopped by his brave men. A flag was immediately hoisted by
(Japtain DePeyster, their commanding officer (Major Ferguson
liaving been killed a little before), for a surrender, our fire imme-
diately ceased, and the enemy laid down their arms, the greatest
part of them charged, and surrendered themselves to us prisoners
at discretion.
It appeared from their own provision returns for that day, found
in their camp, that their whole force consisted of 1,125 men, out
(tf which they sustained the following loss: Of the regulars, one
major, one captain, two sergeants, and fifteen privates killed;
thirty-five privates wounded, left on the ground not able to march.
I'wo captains, four lieutenants, three ensigns, one surgeon, five
sergeants, three corporals, one drummer, and forty-nine privates
tjiken prisoners. Loss of the Tories : two colonels, three captains
and 201 privates killed; one major and 127 privates wounded, and
left on th(; ground, not able to march; one colonel, twelve cap-
tains, eleven lieutenants, two ensigns, one quartermaster, one adju-
tant, two commissaries, eighteen sergeants and 600 privates taken
prisoners. Total loss of the enemy, 1,105 men, at King's mountain.
Given under our hands at camp.
(Signed) WM. CAMPBELL,
ISAAC SHELBY, !
BENJ. CLEVELAND.
o n r'
Soulhirest Vinjinia, 17J/0-17S'J.
*The nunibor of men c()iu|)()sin(i- tlic ai-niy of tlic mountain ukmi
on this expedition was as follows:
From \\'asliinL':toii county. \'a., under Colonel Win. C'amplicll. 400
From Sulli\aii county. X . ('.. undci' ( 'olone] Isaat; Shelby "J 10
From Washiniitoii county, \. ('., undei- (Vilonel John Seviei-,. . 2-iO
Frojn Ihirke and IJuthcrford. X. ('.. under Colonel Charles
McDowell 1 CO
From Wilkt'S ajid Surry. X". C.. under Colonc^I Cleveland and
Majol' John Winston ooO
1.350
The official rejxjrt of the killed and wounded in the ai'iny of
the raountain men. as ])uldishe(l at the time and now on lilc w ith tlie
Gates' papers in the X^ew X'ork Tlistoi'ical Society, gives the killed
and wonnded as follows :
liETUKN OF Killed and Wounded.
KILLED.
WOUNDED
RKOIMENTS.
oi
o
o
o
I
a
S
a
a
S
3
_5)
a
s
6
>
o
o
o
5
c
S
1
'x
a
c
?1
6
>
H
!
a
Campbell's . . '
12 4 ...
4
12
4
1
3
17
4
8
10
21
4
8
13
•^8
McDowell's .
Thomas' . . .
S
1
8
Cleveland's ....
H
s
1
2
'>^
Shelbv's
2
2
1
10
3
3
10
3
3
i'>
Hayes'
Brannon's. ..'...
I
4
..J.. 1.
R
Tol. Williams' 1
' 1
1
28
1
19
1
3
3
;5
62
Total 1 1
1
1
2
4
90
Tt will he seen that this report is imperfect in this, that it does
not i-e])ort the killed and wonnded in Colonel Shelby's reo-iment,
and, in addition thereto, it is known to imperfectly state the killed
and wounded in Colonel Campbell's reoiment.
On the "itith day of October, Colonel Cam])hi'll issned an order
apjK)intin,a- Cdlonel Cleveland to the command of the troops then
encamped at Uethabara. aftei- which. Colonels Cam])bell and Sldby
*Foote's Bketches, N. C, page. 206
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 337
j-i'|)ai]\'(l to (iciK'i-al Gati's's caiii]) at Hillsljorough, Colonel Shelby
to offer the services of a iiuiiil)er of mountain men under Major
McDowell, to serve under General ^lorgan. The ohject of Colonel
Campbell's visit is hest stated in a letter written l)y him to Gov-
ernor Jefferson from Hillsborough, which letter is as follows:
"Hillsborough. Octo])er 31, 1780.
"Sir, — I came to this place last night tO' receive General Gates'
directions liow to dispose of the prisoners taken at King's moun-
tain, in the State of South Cai'olina, upon the 7tli instant. He has
ordered them to l)e talcen over to Montgomery county, where they
are to be secured under proper guards. General Gates transmits
to your Excellency a state of the proceedings of our little party to
the westward. I flatter myself we have much relieved that part of
the country from its late distress.
"I am, your Excellency's most ohedient and very humble servant,
"WILLIAM CAMPBELL."
General Gates directed Colonel William Preston to prepare a
proper place for the reception and care of the prisoners, but Colonel
Preston immediately answered General Gates, informing him that
the Lead Mines would be an unsafe place for the prisoners, as a
large portion of the inhabitants of Montgomery county were dis-
affected, and advised General Gates to send the prisoners to Bote-
tourt county. General Gates, ujwn receipt of Colonel Preston's
letter, was in doubt as to the proper disposition of the prisoners,
and Colonel Campbell advised him to send the prisoners north to
Washington's army, which idea General Gates partially approved,
and directed Colonel Campbell to proceed to Eichmond with dis-
patches to Governor Jefferson on the subject, which matter was re-
ferred to the Congress of the United States by Governor Jefferson,
and that body, on the 20th of !N"oveniber, expressed it as their
opinion that the governors of the several States wdiose citizens were
numbered among the prisoners should make such orders respecting
the prisoners as the public security and the laws of the respective
States may require. Acting under this recommendation of Con-
gress, that portion of the prisoners that had not previously thereto
escaped were either paroled or enlisted in the militia of the States
of North and South Carolina.
Governor Jefferson, upon receipt of General Gates' report of the
338 Southwest Virgitiia, 17J,6-17S6.
battle of King's mountain, transmitted the same to the Congress
of the United Colonies, which body, on the 15th of November,
adopted the following resolution:
"Nov. 13, 1780.
"A letter of the Tth from Governor Jeflerson was read, inclosing
a letter of the first from Major-General Gates with a particular
account of the victory ol)tained by the militia over the enemy at
King's mountain, on the 7th of October, last, whereupon Eesolved : —
"That Congress entertain a high sense of the spirited and mili-
tary conduct of Colonel Campbell and the officers and privates of
the militia under his command, displayed in the action of October,
7tli, in which a complete victory was obtained over superior num-
bers of the enemy advantageously posted on King's mountain, in
the State of S. Carolina, and that this resolution be published by
the commanding officer of the southern army, in general orders."
On tlie 15th of tlie same month the Senate of Virginia passed
the following resolutions :
"Eesolved, neminc contradicente, that the thanks of this House
ai-e justl}' due to Colonel William Campbell, of Wasliington count_v,
and the brave officers and soldiers under his command, who, with
an ardor truly patriotic in the month of September last, without
waiting for the call of Go\'ernment, voluntarily marched out to
oppose the common enemy, at the time making depredations on the
frontiers of North Carolina, and on the seventh day of October, by
a Avell-timed, judicious and spirited attack, with a force inferior
to that of ]\rajor Ferguson's, then advantageously posted on King's
mountain, with upwards of eleven hundred men, and by a perse-
verance and gallantry rarely to be met with, even among veteran
troops, totally defeated the whole party, whereby, a formidable and
dangerous scheme of the enemy was effectually frustrated."
On the lOtli day of November the Legislature of Virginia
adopted the folloMang resolutions:
"Eesolved that the thanks of this House be given to Colonel
William Campbell, of the county of Washington, and the officers
and soldiers under his command, who spontaneously equipped
tliemselves, and went forth to the aid of a sister State; suffering
distress under the invasion and ravage of the common enemy, and
wlio, combined with some detachments from the neighboring
Slates, judiciously concerted and bravely executed an attack on
Washington County, 1777-1870. 339
a party of the enemy commanded by Major Ferguson, consisting
of about 1,105 men, British and Tories, strongly posted on King's
mountain, whereby, after a severe and bloody conflict of upwards
of an hour, the survivors of the enemy were compelled to surren-
der themselves prisoners of war; and that Colonel Campbell be re-
quested to communicate the contents of this resolution to the gal-
lant officers and soUliers who composed his party."
Joseph Jones, Iiichard Henry Lee and Colonel William Fleming
wo]-e appointed a couimittee to communicate the foregoing vote
of thanlcs to Colonel Campbell, which they did, to which Colonel
Cauipljell was pleased to return the following answer :
''Gentlemen, — I am infinitely happy in receiving this public tes-
timony of the approbation of uiy country for my late services in
South Carolina. It is a reward far above my expectations, and I
esteem it the noblest a soldier can receive from a virtuous people.
Through you, gentlemen, I wish to communicate the high sense
I have of it to the House of Delegates. I owe, under Providence,
much to the brave officers and soldiers who' served with me; and I
shall take the earliest opportunity of transmitting the resolve of
your House to them, who, I am persuaded will experience all the
honest, heartfelt satisfaction, I feel myself on this occasion."
Upon the receipt of Colonel Campbell's answer, the General As-
sembly of Virginia adopted the following resolution :
"Ordered that a good horse, with elegant furniture, and a
sword, be purchased at the public expense and presented to Gen-
eral Campbell, as a fartber testimony of the high sense the Gen-
eral Assembly entertain of his late important services to his coim-
try."
This resolution was not carried into execution in the lifetime
of Colonel Campbell, but the horse and sword were afterwards pre-
sented to William C. Preston, a grandson of Colonel Campbell's,
and United States Senator for many years from South Carolina.
The gratitude of the people of Virginia to Colonel Campbell and
his brave men for the great service they had rendered their country
was unbounded, and the General Assembly of Virginia exhausted
every resource in their power to make evident the gratification of
the people.
On the 14th of Jime, 1781, the General Assembly of Virginia
adopted the following resolution :
340 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
".Resolved, that AY in. Campbell, Esq., be appointed a Brigadier-
General in the militia of this Commonwealth, and the Governor
elect do commission him accordingly."
And on the 22d of November, 1783, after the death of General
Campbell, the General Assembly adopted the following resolution:
"Eesolved, That after the lands given by law as bounties to the
officers and soldiers shall be surveyed and laid off, five thousand
acres of the surplus be granted to Charles Campbell, in considera-
tion of the meritorious services of his late father, General Camp-
bell."
And on the 9th day of December, 1780, the General Assembly
adopted the following resolution :
"Eesolved, That the Governor be directed to forward to Wash-
ington county, thirty bushels of salt and six hundred pounds cash,
toi be by the court of that county distributed among the widows and
orphans of the slain and wounded officers and soldiers of the corps
that fought at King's mountain, in such proportion as by the said
court may be judged proper."
It is doubtful whether there is another county in this Union,
whose citizens, either voluntarily or by command of the govern-
ment, rendered such valuable services to their country in a time of
imminent danger, as did the citizens of Washington county upon
this occasion, and you may search history in vain for another
instance in which the government of this Union or of any State
has shown such gratitude to the actors.
Thomas Jefferson, in speaking of this expedition in after years,
said: "I well remember the deep and grateful impression made on
the mind of every one by that memorable victory. It was the joy-
ful annunciation of that turn in the tide of success which term-
inated the Eevolutionary war with the seal of our independence."
And America's greatest historian, in speaking of this expedition
and its effect upon the public mind, said :
"The victory at King's mountain, which, in the spirit of the
American soldiers was like the rising at Concord, in its effect like
the success at Bennington, changed the aspects of the war. The
loyalist no longer dared to rise. It fired the patriots of the two
Carolinas with fresh zeal. It encouraged the fragments of the
defeated and scattered American army to seek each other and
organize themselves anew. It quickened the Legislature of North
Washington County, 1777-1870. 341
Carolina to earnest efforts. It encouraged Virginia to devote her
resources to the country south of her border."
The appearance on the frontiers of a numerous enemy from
settlements hej^ond the mountains, whose very names had been
unkno-wTi to the British, took CoTnwallis by surprise, and their suc-
cess was fatal to his intended expedition. He had hoped to step
with ease from one Carolina to the other and from those to the con-
quest of Virginia, and he had now no other choice but to retreat."*
Before closing this account, it is but proper that there should be
given an incident connected with one of Washington county's brave
soldiers, who lost a leg and who was badly wounded in his arm in
this battle.
"Among the wounded left by General Campbell at Bicker-
staff was William Moore. Fpon the rotTirn of the Virginia troops
to their homes, information was imparted to Moore's wife of the
wounding of her hiisband, the brave part he had taken in the action
and the disposition made of him at Bickerstaff, whereupon, she
immediately mounted her hoi*se and, alone, traveled in the month
of N"ovember the long and dangerous road from her home in the
upper end of this county to Bickerstaff in North Carolina, where
she found her husband, nursed him l)ack to health and strength,
and brought him back to his homo, where he lived an honored life
until the year 182G.
Tradition says that he was an elder in the Ebbing Spring Pres-
byterian church, and that for many years before his death he con-
stantly attended his cliurch; and, at every meeting, immediately
upon the conclusion of the services, he would take his position, upon
his crutch, at the entrance to the church, and receive the contribii-
tions of the people. Many of the descendants of William Moore
and his wife, who was equally as brave as he, at the present time
live in the upper end of this county and are numbered among our
best citizens.
At the time Colonel Campbell decided to join the expedition
against Colonel Ferguson, he was making the necessary prepara-
tions for an expedition against the Cherokee Indians, under orders
from Governor Jefferson, which orders were as follows :
^^ *Bancroft.
342 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
In Council, June 22, 1780.
Sir: — Orders have been sent to the county lieutenants of Mont-
gomery and AVashington, to furnish 250 of their militia to proceed
in conjunction with the Carolinians against the Chickamoggas.
You are hereby autliorized to take command of said men. Should
the Carolinians not have at present such an expedition in contem-
plation, if you can engage them to concur as volimteers, either at
their own expense or that of their State, it is recommended to you
to do it. Take great care to distinguish the friendly from the hos-
tile part of the Cherokee nation, and to protect the former while you
severely punish the latter. The commissary and quartermaster in
the Southern department is hereby required to furnish you all the
aid of his department. Should the men, for the purpose of dis-
patch, furnish horses for themselves to ride, let them be previously
.'ippraised, as in cases of impress, and for such as shall be killed, die
or be lost in the service without any default of the owner, payment
shall be made by tlie public. An order was lodged with Colonel
Preston for 1,000 poimds of powder from the lead mines for this
expedition; and you receive herewith an order for 500 pounds of
j)owder from Colonel Fleming for the same purpose, of the expendi-
ture of which you will render account.
I am, sir, your very humble servant,
THOMAS JEFFEESON.*
Colonel Campbell, in his certificate heretofore given, states this
to have been his authority for taking his men upon the expedition
against Ferguson.
Upon the return of Colonel William Campbell and his forces
from King's mountain, Colonel Arthur Campbell, the county lieu-
tenant of Washington county, immediately proceeded to organize
and carry on the expedition against the Cherokees, as directed by
Governor Jefferson. Upon his return from this expedition, on the
15th of January, 1781, he made a report to the Governor of Vir-
ginia, which is so full and complete, that I here give it in the words
of Colonel Arthur Campbell:
"Sir: — The militia of this and the two western North Carolina
counties have been fortunate enough to frustrate the designs of the
Cherokees. On my reaching the frontiers I found the Indians
*Gibb's Doc. His. of the American Revolution, Vol. 2.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 343
meant to annoy us by small parties, and carry off horses. To resist
them effectually, the apparently best measure was to transfer the
war, without delay, to their own borders. To raise a force suffi-
cient and provide them with provisions and other necessaries seemed
to be a work of time that would be accompanied with uncommon
difficulties, especially in the winter season; our situation was cri-
tical, and nothing but an extraordinary effort could save us and
disappoint the views of the enemy; all the miseries of 1776 came
fresh into remembrance, and, to avoid a like scene, men flew to their
arms and went to the field. The Wattago men, under Lieutenant
Sevier, first marched to the amount of about three hundred. The
militia of this with that of Sullivan county made 400 more. The
place of rendezvous was to be on this side of the French river.
Colonel Sevier, with his men, got on the path before the others,
and by means of some discoveries made by his scouts he was in-
duced to cross the river in pursuit of a party of Indians tliat had
been coming towards our settlements. On the IGtli of December
he fell in with a party, since found to consist of seventy Indians,
mostly from the town of Ohote, of which were killed thirteen, and
he took all their baggage, etc., in which were some of Clinton's
Proclamations and other documents expressive of their hostile de-
signs against us.
"After this action the Wattago corps tho't it proper to retreat
into an island of the river. The 22d I crossed the French river,
and found the Wattago men in great want of provisions. We gave
them a supply from our small stock: and the next day made a
forced march towards the Tenasee. The success of the enterprise
seemed to rest on our safely reaching the further bank of that
river: as we had information the Indians had obstructed the com-
mon fording places, and had a force ready there to oppose our
crossing. The meaning of the 24th I made a feint towards the
Island Town, and, with the main body, passed the river without re-
sistance at Timotlee.
"We were now discO'vered, such of the Indians as we saw seemed
to be flying in consternation. Here I divided my force, sending a
part to attack the town below, and with the other I proceeded
towards their principal town Chote. Just as I passed a defile above
Toque, I observed the Indians in force, stretching along the hills
below Chote, with an apparent design to attack our van there with-
344 Southivest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
out our view; but the main bcHly too soon came iu sight for me
to decoy them from ofO the hills. So they quietly let us pass in
order, without firing a gun, except a few scattering shot at our
rear; at a great distance from the Cleft, we soon were in possession
of their beloved Town, in Avhieh we found a welcome supply of pro-
visions.
^'The 35th, Major Martin went with a detachment to discover
the route the enemy were flying oif by. He surprised a party of
Indians, took one scalp and seventeen horses loaded with clothing,
skins and house furniture. He discovered that most of the fugi-
tives were making towards Telico and the TTi^\'asee. The same
day, Captain Crabtree, of the Virginia Eeg't was detached with
sixty men to burn the town of Chilhowee. He succeeded in setting
fire to that part of it situated on the south side of the river, altho"
in the time, he was attacked by a superior force. He made his re-
treat good.
"The 36th, IMajor Tipton, of the Carolina Corps, was detached
with 150 mounted infantry, with orders to cross the river, dislodge
the enemy on that side and destroy the town of Tilassee. At the
same time Major Gilbert Christian, with 150 foot, was to patrol
the hills on the south side of Chilhowee and burn the remaining
part of that town. This party did their duty, killed three Indians
and took nine prisoners. The officer of the Horse, by unmilitary
behavior, failed in crossing the river. This trip took two days.
"In this time, the famous Indian woman, Nancy Ward, came
to camp; she gave us various intelligence and made an overture in
behalf of some of the Chiefs for peace, to which I avoided giving
an explicit answer, as I wished first to visit the vindictive part of
the nation, mostly settled at Hiwassee and Chistowee, and to dis-
tress the whole as much as possible, by destroying their habitations
and provisions.
"The 2<Sth, we set fire to Chote, Scitigo and Little Tuskeego,
and moved oiir whole force to a town on Telico Eiver, Kai-a-tee,
where I intended a post, for to secure a retreat and tO' lay up pro-
visions in. This evening, Major Martin, on returning from a pa-
trol, attacked a party of Indians, killed two, and drove several into
the river. The same evening in a skirmish w^e lost Captain James
I]lliott, a gallant young officer, being the first and only man the
Washington Countij, 1777-1S70. 345
enemy had power to hurt, on the Expedition. The Indians lost
three men on the occasion.
"Tlie ?9th, I set out for Hiwassec, distant about forty miles, leav-
ing at Kai-a- tee, under Major Christian, a garrison of one hundred
and fifty men.
"The 80ih, we arrived at Hiwassee and found the towi\ of the same
name abandoned. In patrolling the environs we took a sensible
young warrior, who informed us that a body of Indians, with
McDonald, the British agent and some Tories, were at Chistowee,
twelve miies distant, waiting to receive us. I had reason tO' believe
the cnou.y had viewed us from the hills above Hiwassee; for which
reason I ordered our camp to be laid off, fires kindled, and other
shews made, as if we intended to stay all night. At dark we set out
with about three hundred men (the Wattage men refusing to go
further), crossing tlie river at an unexpected ford, and that night
got near the town. Early in the morning of the 31st, we found that
the ene.uy had lied in haste the evening before, leaving behind them
as they had done at the other towns, almost all their corn and other
provision3, togetlier v,ith many of their utensils for agriculture and
all their lieavy household furniture, with part of their stock of
horses, cattle and hogs. Tliese towns, I expected, would have been
contended for v/ith obstinacy, as most of the Chickamogga people
had remov(!d hence after their visitation in 1779. Our troops
becom.ing impatient and no other object of importance being in
view, it 'Aa^ resolved to retiu-n homeward. Major Martin, with a
detachment, was ordered to Sattago, and the other towns on the
Telico river. In his route he took four prisoners, from whom he
learnt that .-evL'rnl of the chiefs had met a few days before in order
to consult on means to propose a treaty for peace. As I found the
enemy n-erc limnblod and to gain time, I took the liberty to send
the chiefs a message, which was as follows :
"( 'liiefs and Warriors : — We came into your country to fight your
young men. We have killed not a few of them and destroyed your
to^^'•ns. You know }ou began the war, by listening to the bad coun-
cils of iiie Iving of England and the falsehoods told you by his
agents. We are now satisfied with what is done, as it may convince
your nation that we can distress them much at any time they are
so foolish as to engage in a war against us. If you desire peace,
as we understand you do, we, out of pity to your women and chil-
346 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
dren, are disposed to treat Avith you on that subject and take you
into our friend.^hip once more. We therefore send this by one of
your young men, who is our prisoner, to tell you if you are also
disposed to make j^eace, for six of your head men to come to our
agent, ]\h;jor ]\Ia]-tin, at the Great Island within two moons. They
will have a safe ]^as«port, if they will notify us of their approach
by a runner witli a flag, so as to give him time to meet them with a
guard on. IT ol stein river, at the boundary line. The wives and chil-
dren of these men of your nation that protested against the war, if
they are willing to lake refuge at the Great Island until peace is
restored, we will give them a supply of provisions to keep them
alive.
'?'Warriors lislen ettentively.
"If we receive no answer to this message until the time alreiidy
mentioned expires, we shall conclude you intend to continue to be
our enemies, v.hich will compel us to send another strong force into
yoi^r country who will come prepared to stay a long time, and take
posppi^sion thereof, as conquered by us, without making any restitu-
tion to you for yonr lands.
"Signed at Kai-a-tee the 4th day of January, one thousand seven
hiindied and eig'lity-one, by
^ "AETHUE CAMPBELL, Col.
"JOHN SEVIEE, Lieutenant-Col.
"JOSEPH MAETIN, Agent & Major of Militia."
"The fulfillment of this message will require your Excellency's
further instructions, and in which I expect North Carolina will
assist, or that Congress will take upon themselves the whole. I
believe advantageous promises of peace may be easily obtained with
a siiri'pnder of snch an extent of country, that will defray the
expenses of war. But such terms will be best insured b}' placing a
garrison of two hundred men under an active officer on the banks
of the Tenasee.
"'('5iir v.hole loss on this expedition was one man killed by the
Indians and two wounded by accident. It would have been very
pleasing to the troops to have met the whole force of the nation at
once on equal ground, but so great was the panic that seized them,
after seeing us in order over tlie Tenasee, that they never ven-
turned themselves in sight of the army, luit on rocky clefts and
other ground inaccessible to our mounted infantry. By the returns
Washington County, 1777-1870. 347
of the officers of the different detachments, we killed twenty-nine
]nen and took seventeen prisoners, mostly women and children. The
number of wounded is uncertain. Besides these, we brought in the
family cf ISTancy Ward, whom for their good offices, we considered
in anotliei light.
'^'The wliole are in Major Martin's care at the Great Island until
the sense of government is kno-wn as to how they are to be dis-
posed of.
''Jlie towns of Chote, Scitigo, , Chilhowee, Toque
]\[ie]iqua, Kai-a-tee, Sattooga, Telico, Hiwassee and Chistowee, all
principal towns, besides some small ones and several scattering set-
tlements, in which were upwards of a thousand houses and not less
than fifty thousand bushels of corn and large quantities of other
kinds of provisions, were committed to the flames or otherwise
destroyed, after taking sufficient subsistence for the army whilst in
the country and on its return. No place in the over-hill country
]"enialned unvisited, except the small town of Telasee, a scattering
sottlejnent in the neighborhood of Chickamogga, and the town of
Caloogac, sitnated on the sources of the Mobile. We found in
Oconostato's baggage, which he left behind in his fright, various
manuscripts, copies of treaties, commissions, letters and other
archives of the nation, some of which shew the double game tJiat
people have been carrying on during the present war. There
seemed to be not a man of honor among the chiefs, except him of
Kai-a-tee, whom I would willingly have excepted had it been in
my power. Never did a people so happily situated act more fool-
i?]dy in losing their livings and their country, at a time an advan-
tageous neiitrality was held out to them, but such is the consequence
of British seductions.
''The enemy in my absence did some mischief in Powell's Valley
ard on the Kentucky path, near Cumberland Gap, besides three
small children that they scalped on Holstein, one of the perpetrators
of which, we knocked up on our return, and retook a number of
horses. The Botetourt and Montgomery militia were too slow in
their movements to do any service. The Virginia militia that served
with me on the expedition, expect to be paid in the same manner
with those that served last year in Carolina.
"What provisions were needed on our setting out were purchased
on short credit, which will, I trust, be punctually paid on the first
348 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
apj)lication. Yo;ir Excellency will please to excuse the length of
this narration. T thought it my duty to give a circumstantial detail
of the facts, as tlie undei-taking had something singular in it and
may lead to important consequences.
"I am, sir, your most Ob't and very humble Serv't &c.,
"AETHUR CAMPBELL."
On the 1st day of January, 1781, the army of Campbell, Sevier
and Martin divided into small detachments and returned to their
homes by different I'outes, after having laid waste all the country
occupied by the over-hill Cherokees.
In answer to the talk sent to the Indians, a number of chiefs
met Colonel Martin at Chote, but nothing was accomplished at
this time.
Upon the return of Colonel Arthur Campbell to his home, he
immediately communicated with G-eneral Greene, the Commander
of the Southern Department, when General Greene appointed
Arihur Campl)cll, William Preston, William Christian, Joseph Mar-
tin, on behalf of Virginia, and Robert Lanier, Evan Shelby, Joseph
Williams and John Sevier, on the part of North Carolina, commis-
sioners, to negotiate a treaty with the Cherokee Indians, at the
Long Island of Ilolston river, on the 24th of IMarch, 1781 : on
which day. Colonels Campbell, Martin, Shelby and Sevier met at the
Long Island and sent off one of the Indian prisoners to the Indian
nation proposing peace and fixing the 10th day of June as the time;
which time of meeting was afterwards postponed until the 20th day
of July, 1781, on which day the negotiations were completed. But
at the instigation of British agents, the Indians continued their
depiedations u|)on the white settlers. On the 13th of January, 1781,
a settler in PoAvell's Valley was killed and fourteen horses that
belonged to a party -of men coming from Kentucky were carried off.
In the latter part of January, a considerable number of Indians
attacked Fort Blackmore* in this county, and, about tlie middle of
February, three men were killed in PowelFs Valley and a consid-
ei'able number of horses carried off.
A company of militia was organized by Colonel Campbell and
ordered to patrol Powell's Valley, under the command of Colonel
J()seph Martin and Major Aaron Lewis. As this company of troops
*Now Scott county.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 349
proceeded on their outward trip, they discovered a large body of
Jiidians in Powell's Valley. The Indians discovering the presence
of Major Lewis, made their escape, but several traces of smaller
parties, all making towards the mouth of Powell's river, were dis-
covered, and the one that appeared the freshest was followed by
Colonel Martin and his men, for about thirty miles below Cum-
berland Gap, where the Indians were surprised and surrounded,
but the cane was so thick they could not easily be detected or pur-
si;ed on liorseback. Thirty guns at least were fired upon them, and,
while it was thought that some of them were Avounded, there
were none killed or left upon the ground. Martin's militia captured
a number of shot pouches and blankets, upon one of which was
found the name, John Brown, written in full, the said John Brown
having been previously killed in Cumberland Gap. Colonel Mar-
tin and his men pursued the Indians for about seventy miles. In
tiie latter part of March, a party of northward Indians came up
on the Sandy river and penetrated as far as tlie settlement on Hols-
tou, where they carried off a son of Captain Bledsoe's, and the
f]-oj]tiers were invaded at numerous other points by the Indians.
Tlie settlements were threatened by an invasion from the united
forces of the Cherokee and Creek Indians, assisted by the British
agents and Tories.
Colonel Arthur Campbell recommended to the Governor of Vir-
ginia the building of a fort at the junction of the Tennessee and
Ilf'lston rivers, and was actively engaged in building the fort at
Cumberland Cap as previously ordered by the Governor.
The Continental Congress and the officers of the Continental army
having ascertained the value of the mountain militia, a pressing
application from General Greene for men was received by Colonel
Arthur Campbell, the county lieutenant of this county. Colonel
Campbell immediately ordered out the militia of this county, not-
withstanding their circumstances were ill-suited to such an expedi-
tion, as matters with the Cherokees were still unsettled and the
Indians from the northward were constantly invading the settle-
ments. On the 25th day of February, 1781, one hundred men under
Colc.nel William Campbell set out to join the militia of Botetourt
and Montgomery coiinties, on their march to General Greene's army.
Colonel Arthur Campl)ell, in a letter to the Governor on the 28th
day of this month, said : "A large number would have gone, were
350 Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-17S6.
it not for the daily appro! lonsion of attacks from the northward
and southern Indians."
Colonel William Campbell and his men marched to a point at or
near the Lead i\Iines, where they were joined by the Montgomery
militia.
In the month of March, 1781, Colonel Arthur Campbell, county-
lieutenant of Washington county, made a return of the militia of
this county, from Mdiich it appears that there were, at this time, in
this county, 2 battalions, 6 field officers, 55 commissioned officers,
4^ non-commissioned officers, 953 rank and file. In addition, there
were about one hundred men residing between Walker's and Plender-
scn's lines, who did duty at times as their inclination led them."
Colonel Canipl)ell, with his com.pany of one hundred men pro-
ceeded from Abingdon by the Lead Mines and on into North
Carolina, where, on March 2d, he joined General Greene with four
hundred volunteers. Colonel Campbell was now to oppose Lord
Cornwallis, who had imbibed a personal resentment towards him
as the commander at King's mountain, and wlw had threatened that,
should Colonel Campbell fall into his hands, he would have him
instantly put tO' death, for his rigor against the Tories, evidently
d(\:igning to hold him personally responsible for the execution of the
Toi} leaders at BickerstafP. This, instead of intimidating Colonel
Cnmpbell, had the contrary effect, and Campbell, in turn, resolved
tliat. if the fortunes of war should place CornAvallis in his power, he
should meet the fate of Ferguson. It was not long until Campbell
and his men were called into action.
The Virginia militia, other than Colonels Preston's and Camp-
bell's commands, w^hile on the march to join General Greene, were
threatened with an attack from Colonel Tarleton's cavalry, with
foui hundred infantry and two pieces of artillery sent out by Cotu-
wallis to intercept them. General Greene had dispatched Colonel
Otho Williams to protect the advancing reinforcements from his
camp at Speedwell's Iron Works, on the upper waters of Trouble-
some creek. The Virginia militia were marching on a highway,
rimning west from a point below Hillsborough, to General Greene's
headquarters. Cornwallis was in camp on the Alamance creek, about
thirty miles west from Hillsborough. The command of Colonel Wil-
liams was between the camp of Cornwallis and the advancing mili-
tia. The roads leading from Cornwallis's camp and Williams's camp
Washington County, 1777-1870. 351
to the position occupied by the militia, intersected each other at
Whitsill's Mill, which was the nearest point at which Cornwallis
could attack the advancing militia.
It was the design of Cornwallis to attack and scatter this militia
force and to destroy the three thousand arms they were bringing
to General Greene's camp.
General Greene moved his camp to Boyd's Mill, within fifteen
miles of Cornwallis, and Colonels Williams and Pickens were on the
fiank of the enemy. General Greene anxiously awaited results at
his camp, seven miles above Whitsill's Mill. Thus matters stood on
the fith of March, when Cornwallis made a sudden dash north,
expecting to reach Whitsill's Mill in advance of Williams, and,
passing north ten miles further, to intercept the militia reinforce-
ments at High Eock Ford on Haw river, but Cornwallis had hardly
left his camp before Colonel Williams received the news, and the
]'ace for Whitsill's Mill began. They were traveling on parallel
roads, Williams with his light troops flying to the rescue oi his
friends, Cornwallis with his heavy wagon train, dashing through
ever} olistruction with reckless speed, hoping to intercept and
desti'oy General Greene's reinforcements. "As the patrols and
scouts passed from one column to the other, apprising each of the
advance of his competitor, the race grew more animated, the com-
petitors more earnest and resolute. The goal was now getting nearer
and the excitement greater, when Williams, putting forth his whole
energy, urged his men to a triumphant speed and dashed down the
hill and across the Eeedy Fork, as the enemy appeared upon the
crest in their rear, entering from the other road."*
Colonel Williams drew up his forces on the north bank of the
stream, where he attacked the British and checked them in their
onward march.
Colonel Williams' command was composed of some ISTorth Caro-
lina troops and the Virginia militia under the command of Colonels
Campbell and 7h"eston, who, as previously stated, had joined General
Greene on March 2d, and the cavalry corps of Washington and Lee.
The position occupied by Colonel Williams' forces was in front of
the ford and some two hundred yavds below the mill.
As the British forces approached, their riflemen formed the front
rank' and fired at a distance, continuing to advance toward the creek
*Schenck's North Carolina, 1780-1781.
352 Sovihwest Virginia, 17.k6-n86.
uiiiil tlicv wrie within eighty yards of the American line, wlicn
('niii|ilM'll"s and Preston's riflemen tired upon them with deadly
efiecl. One of the British officers, when shot, bounding up several
feet fell dead. The enemy continued to advance, and when within
forty-five yards of the American line, they were again fired upon
jiy the riflemen. The enemy used their small arms and field pieces,
l)ut, in every instance, tlieir firing was too high, and took effect only
among the limbs of the trees.
The enemy's forces were on flic hill, and their view was greatly
?obstructed by the smoke from the discharge of the guns of the
Americans, who were below them. One of the principal objects
^^'hicb Colonel Williams had in view was the protection of Whit-
siH's l\[i]l for a time sufficient to enable the provision wagons
belonging to General Greene's army to load with provisioii, which
Mas effected, and to prevent Cornwallis from surprising the rein-
forcements on their way to General Greene. The Americans, ^^n\-
ing accomplished their object, retired over the ford, which was about
fjircc feet deep, with a rapid current, a slippery, rocky bottom and
a precipitous brushy bank on the northern side.
While crossing the ford. Major Joseph Cloyd observed G!)l'>ncl
William Preston, his commaiider, on foot, Preston having lost his
horse in the skirmish, whereupon Cloyd dismounted and assisted
Colonel Preston into his saddle, when both escaped.
The principal part of the fighting in this skirmish was done by
Campbell's and Preston's riflemen and Lee's Legion.
Colonel Campbell, in speaking of this engagement, said : "John
Craig, one of his riflemen, acted witli his usual courage," and Gen-
eral Greene, in speaking of the battle, said : "The enemy wer.e hand-
somely opposed and suffered considerably."
Cornwallis immediately withdrew his forces from the Alamance
to p position on Leep river, not far from JamestOiwn, iSTorth Caro-
lina, and the militia reinforcements proceeded on their way and
reached General Greene's camp at High Eock Ford, on Sunday,
March 11, 1781, four days before the battle of Guilford Courthouse.
All preparations were made by General Greene to give Cornwallis
])attle at the first opportunity, and while Colonel Campbell took
fewer men upon this expedition than any other commander, he was
assigned one of the conspicuous parts in the subsequent campaign.
Washington County, 1111-1810. 353
and all of the forces under his command have been since spoken of
as "Campbell's Corps."
The aggregate number of the Virginia militia, outside of the
regular army, that participated in the battle of Guilford Court-
house, was as follows :
Colonel William Preston's command, 300
Colonel William Campbell's command, 60
Colonel Charles I^ynch's command, 150
Watkins's dragoons, 50
Virginia militia, 1,693
Total 2,353
It is ef.timated that the number of forces commanded by General
Greene at the battle of Guilford Courthouse was not less than 4,500
men.
General Greene, having collected an army of not less than 4,500
men at the High Eock Ford of Haw river, began his march from
that place, on Monday, the 13th day of March, determined, to give
battle to the e>nemy upon the first opportunity, and reached Guilford
Courthouse on the evening of the 14th. He encamped about a mile
above the town that night, while Corwallis was stationed about eight
miles above the Courthouse.
Guilford Courthouse, at the time in question, was the capital of
Guilford county, North Carolina, and contained a population of
about two hundred people. Its principal buildings were the court-
house, jail and a large coppersmith shop. In recent years, it is noth-
ing more than an open field, the county seat having been moved to
Greensboro.
General Greene had inspected the battlefield at Guilford court-
house on the 10th of February, and pronounced it very desirable for
his army. "It afforded a forest where the militia could fight from
tree to tree, for shelter, and be protected from the charge of cavalry,
and for the same reason, a solid column of bayonets could not be
kept together, among the undergrowth of the trees. The roads that
concentrated from the north, northeast and east, all afforded safe
lines of retreat for his army to his supplies and reinforcements."*
General Greene, in forming his line of battle, placed Campbell's
*Scheiick's North Carolina, 1780-1781.
354 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
cor])s, eonsisting of about five liimdred and forty men, under the
command of Colonel William Campbell, of Virginia, on the left of
Butler's lino and ol.diqnel^y to it in the woods, and in the rear of the
angle formed 1)y those two lines was placed Ijee's Legion, and in
the rear of this line, on the gentle slope of the hill and about three
hundred 3'ards distant to the east, were posted the Virginia militia.
On tbe evening of the 14th of March, Colonels Campbell and
Lynch, each in command of a corps of riflemen, and Lieutenant-
Colonels Lee and Washington, in command of the Light Dragoons,
Mcre advanced about a mile in front of the army and within seven
ndles of Cornwallis's camp. The next morning early, it was ascer-
tained that the enemy was in motion and advancing toward Guilford
Courthouse, whereupon Colonel Lee, with his Legion and about
thirty of Campbell's riflemen from Washington county under com-
mand of Captain William Tate, of Augusta county, advanced to
mxcet the enemy, while the rest of the riflemen, with Colonel Wash-
ington's Horse, formed at their place of encampment on the pre-
ceding night, to support Lee and Tate upon their retreat. Lee and
Tate with their men met the enemy within two miles of their
encampment and began to skirmish with them, and continued fight-
ing and retreating for about half an hour, which disconcerted and
delayed the enemy very much. In the skirmish between the forces
of Lee and Tate and the forces of Colonel Tarleton, a loss of about
fifty men was inflicted upon the British forces, while the light
infantry of the guard, after losing abont one hundred of their num-
ber at the hands of the riflemen, were relieved by a portion of Tarle-
ton's cavalry, wdiich were ordered to their assistance.
While this skirmish was in progress, the main body of Greene's
army was formed about three-quarters of a mile in the rear of the
position occupied by Campbell and Washington; and, upon the
arrival of Lee and Tate, the advance guard was ordered back and
directed to take the position assigned them in the line of battle by
General Greene. Lee's Legion and Campbell's riflemen formed the
corps of observation on the left flank, while the riflemen occupied
a woodland position. About this time the enemy began a cannon-
ade in the center, which lasted about twenty minutes, during whicli
time they formed their line of battle by filing off to the right and
loft, and then immediately advanced upon the American troops.
The battle lasted abont two and one half hours.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 355
While the militia on the left of the American line had been driven
frO'm their position. Colonel Campbell, with his riflemen, made
such a spirited attack on the British regiment on the right wing,
that it was driven back, and the fire became so deadly tliat Colonel
JSTorton, in command of the first battalion of British guards, was
directed to join the British line on the right and oppose the advance
of Campbell's Corps; and at this point the struggle became des-
perate,
"As the Hessian regiment passed the line of militia, it wheeled to
tiic right, and, in line with Norton, faced Campbell. Campbell
was reinforced by many of Butler's brigade, who retreated in that
direction, and Ijy all of Forbes' men, who formed on Campbell's
right. Lee's Legion was on that flanlv. The Seventy-first Eegiment
of Highlanders continued on its course up the road and soon engaged
Stevens' brigade of Virginians.
"It had been the intention of Campbell to fall back and put his
corps in line on the left of Stevens, but the Hessians passed so
rapidly in the front as to cut him off. He was also delayed by his
conflict with Norton on the left. The riflemen, retiring deeper
into the forest, took to the trees, and made it so hot for the guards
tliat they were compelled to retreat in great disorder. Cornwallis
came in person tO' their rescue, and by riding in their front and
e:--posing himself to imminent danger, succeeded in rallying them.
The Hessians, being now joined again by the guards, made a com-
bined charge and drove Campbell to the south, and entirely sep-
arated his command from the American army, so that, in fact, two
distinct battles were raging at the same time.
"About one-qnarter of a mile on the southeast of Campbell's first
position Cornwallis, who was following up Norton and the Hes-
sians, had a large iron gray horse shot under him. The spot is now
marked by a persimmon tree, a century old, whose identity is well
authenticated by tradition.
"Ca^npbell would retreat and fire, then the British would fall
back, and, using the bayonet, push the riflemen back again; so it
raged and alternated between them until Campbell was driven to
a high range of hills, or a little moimtain range as it is sometimes
called, about one mile from Campbell's first position. Here the
riflemen began to gain a decided advantage and to drive the Hes-
356 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
sian.-^ I)('foi-o tluMii, wlieii T.ee, iinexpeetod]}', left CampbeH's flank
and Tarlcton appeared on the scene."*
Lee suddenly left Canipbell without warnins:, and was now an
idle spectator of this scene from the courthouse hill, across Hunting
creek, without notifying Greene of his presence or offering to cover
the flanks.
Colonel Tai'loton had l)oen sent by Cornwallis to rescue Colo-
nel Norton- wlio was engaged by Campl^ell. and Tarleton. finding
Canipbeirs rear unprotected, ordered the Hessians to fire, and
rushed his cavalry on the riflemen under cover of smoke and cut
them to pieces.
"Colonel Camp-bell, with his Virginia and North Carolina rifle-
men, was the last to fire a gun on this bloo^dy field, and was still
firing when Greene sounded the retreat. They became scattered
after Tarleton's charge upon them, and made theii- way as best
they could to the camp of Greene next day."*
Colonel Campbell was very much, angered at Colonel Lee, and
freely expressed his opinion of his conduct, charging that Colonel
Lee, witb his cavalry, rode off just as Tarleton began his charge
upon the flanks of the riflenx-en. It is the opinion of many that,
had Colonel Tjee acted Avell his part in this battle, Cornwallis
would have been defeated and possibly captured, instead of the
-Vmerican arm.y being forced to retreat.
General Greene, with his army, retreated in good order to Speed-
well's Furnace, about ten miles below the battlefield, not being
pursued by the enemy further than the heights above Guilford
Courthouse.
Cornwallis, with his army, remained on the battleground from
Thursday until Sunday, and on the evening of that day began a re-
treat to the south.
The loss of General Greene in this battle was 320 men killed and
wounded, while the British killed and wounded exceeded 600.
General Greene, on tlie 19th day of March, addressed the fol-
lowing letter to Colonel Camp})ell :
"Headquarters, March 19, 1781.
"Sir, — Your faithful services and the exertions which you made
to second the efforts of the Southern army, on the 15th inst.,
*Schenck's North Carolina, 1780-1781
Washington County, 1777-1870. 357
cJaim m}^ warmest thanlis. It would be ungenerous not to ac-
knowledge my entire approbation of your conduct, and the spirited
and manly behavior of the officers and soldiers under you. Sensi-
ble of your merit, I feel a pleasure in doing justice to it. Most
of the riflemen having gone home, and not having it in my power
to make up another command, you have my permission to return
home to your friends, and should the emergency of the southern
operations require your further exertions, I Avill advertise you.
"I am, sir, with great esteem, your most humble servant,
"NATH'L GEEENB.
"CoToyrEL Campbell."
And Colonel Henry Lee, the oi^cer who had so ingloriously de-
serted Colonel Campbell during the battle, had the audacity to ad-
dress tlie following letter to Colonel Campbell:
"March 17, 1781.
"T am very happy in informing you that the bravery of your bat-
talion, displayed in the action of the loth, is particularly noticed
by the General. It is much to be lamented that a failure took
place in the line which lost the day, separated us from the main
body and exposed our retreat. I hope your men are safe and that
the scattered will collect again. Be pleased to favor me Avith a
return of your loss, and prepare your men for a second battle.
'^T am, most respectfully, your obedient servant,
"HE^RY LEE, Jun.
"Colonel Campbell.'"''
But, notwithstanding the kind words spoken and many urgent
requests made. General Campbell, on the 20th of the month, re-
.-^i^emcd bis commission and returned to his home, declaring he
coidd not longer serve his counti'y in the army with honor; and ho
would not serve in the army longer where Colonel Lee held a com-
mission.
Cornwallis, while he succeeded in forcing General Greene to re-
treat, was realh^ the loser in this battle, and on the Sunday fol-
lowing, for the preservation of himself and army, he began an in-
glorious retreat that terminated at Yorktown, where he was com-
pelled, on the 19th day of October, 1781, to surrender his sword
and army to the American forces.
Colonel William Campbell, immediately upon his return to his
358 SonfJiwcst Virginia, 1746-1786.
liniiio. announced liimsolf a candidate for the House of Delegates,
to whieli position he was elected in the spring of the year 1781.
The General Assembly met in Eichmond in May of that year, but
were forced to adjourn tlieir proceedings first to Charlottesville and
afterwards to Staunton to prevent capture by Colonel Tarleton.
On the 1-lth day of June the House of Delegates appointed Colo-
U(^l (*nn)p1)(>ll a l)rigadior-goncrnl of militia, to serve under Mi\r-
quis de Lafayette, \\lio was tlien in command of the C*ontinental
forces in Virginia.
General Campbell immediately ol)tained a leave o-f absence and
repaii-ed to the army, where General Lafayette assigned him to
the conimand of the Light Infantry and Riflemen.
General Campbell became a great favorite with Lafayette, who
l^loced a great deal of confidence in his judgment and ability. Gen-
eral Cauipbell was in command of a bi'igade marching in the di-
rection of Yorktown through Cumberland county, Virginia.
*One night he encam])ed liis men near the residence of an old
English parson by the name of McEea, who had been drawing his
10,000 pounds of tobacco for many years, and was quite wealthy.
When the regiment ])itched their tents General Campbell went a
few miles to spend the night Avith a friend. The next morning
M'hen he returned, his officers informed him that old McEae had been
down, and said all he could to discourage the soldiers. He had
told them that they had not the most distant idea of the dangers
they were al)out to encounter ; that Cornwallis had a very large army,
composed of the finest troops that had ever left England, and it
was pei'fect folly to think of encountering them. He wound up by
saying that they were going to a slaughter-pen, and his Lord Corn-
wallis would slaughter them like a parcel of beeves. As soon as
Campbell heard this ho sent three of his soldiers up to the house of
McEea, with directions to tell him that he wished to see him, and
if he refused to come they m-ust bring him by force. McEea soon
arrived at the camp. Campbell informed him that he had during
his absence said all that could have been said to discourage his
men, that lie deserved coriioral punishmf^nt, but on account of his
old age he would not inflict that on him, but when his men started
he would show him how his men and the rest of the patriots would
serve his Lord Cornwallis. When the regiment was ready to start
*Col. John Redd MSS.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 359
Campbell commanded McEea to lie down and stretch himself out
full length across the road. As soon as the jiarson was stretched out
full length every man stepped over him. Campbell informed him
tliat was tbe way be intended to serve his Lord Cornwallis. Tbu
parson left our gallant general in such an ill humor that I am afraid
his prayers did not accompany the gallant commander of the regi-
ment."*
^^'hi]e Lord Cornwallis was encamped at Williamsburg and La-
fayette was six miles distant towards Eichmond, Greneral Camp-
1)'>11, who was in command of a brigade of light troops connected
A\ith Lafayette's army, posted a picket guard at the Three Burnt
ClrinmeyS' about midway between the hostile camps. Upon several
occasions the enemy sent out a superior body of horsemen and drove
in the American pickets. Colonel Campbell saw in this an oppor-
tunity to strike the enemy a severe blow, and on the following
morning he posted a large body of mounted riflemen with himself
at their head in a grove by the roadside, a short distance in the
rear of the Burnt Chimneys, and, as usual, the pickets were posted
at the Chimneys, with instructions to retire on the approach of the
Jh'itish cavalry. As usual, a large force of British cavalry was sent
to dri\c in the pickets, and in doing so they pursued them under
v,]iip and spur, but when they reached the grove they met with an
unexpected reception. Campbell's riflemen welcomed them with a
volley of rifle balls, which killed more than twenty of their cavalry
and forty of their horses. It is useless to say that the American
pickets were not again disturbed.
Soon thereafter General Campbell was aftlicted with a pain in his
breast, which disabled him, when he was conveyed to the residence
of Colonel John Syme at Eocky Mills, Hanover county, where,
after a few days' illness, he expired on August 22, 1781, in his
thirty-sixth year. When General Lafayette received the intelligence
of the death of General Campbell he issued the following order :
"The general has no douljt that the army will unite with him in
regretting General Campbell's death, an officer whose services must
have endeared him to every citizen, and in particular to every
American soldier. The glory whicTi General Campbell acquired in
the affairs of King's mountain and Guilford Courthouse does his
*John Redd MSS.
3G0 Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
memory everlasting honor and insures him a high rank among the
defenders of liberty in the American cause.
"The general wishes it had been possible for himself and the
officers of the army to ])ay I'iin those lioiiors to whicli his rank, bnt
particularly his merit, so highly entitled him, but his great distance
from the army and our jiresent situation render it impossible.
"The lieutenant of tlie county will assemble a corps to pay mili-
tary honors to the deceased general. General Stephens is re-
(juested to name a deputation of four field officers, and will im-
mediately repair to Eocky Mills, aud. in the name of the army, pay
(rcneral ('ampl)ell their last I'espects."
General Campbell was buried in Hanover county, but his body
was afterwards removed to Aspinvale, his home, near Seven-Mile
Ford.
The settlements on the Holston were now being constantly as-
sailed by the Indians. Captain Moses Loony was captured and car-
ried into captivity, where he remained with the Indians until Au-
gust of this year, when he was sent by them to inform the autlioi-i-
ties that they had collected all the prisoners tliey had taken, about
fifty in number, at Chote, and were ready to deliver them to Colo-
nel Martin; also that the Indian chiefs were ready to attend any-
where, and the whole nation was ready to make peace.
In March of this year Colonels John Sevier and Isaac Shelby
undertook an expedition against ttie Chickamogga Indians, and in
assist in this undertaking 200 of the militia of Washingion county
joined Colonel Isaac Shelby and marched to the Big Island in the
Frencli Broad river, where the troo|)s wei-e rendezvoused, from
which ]>oint they marched for the sources of the Mobile river, and
after the third day they crossed the Tennessee river at Scitico, at
which point they held a council with the friendly Indians. On the
(>th day they encamped on the Hiwassee river, and on the 7th day
tlii'y crossed the river and passed into the territory of the hostile
Indians, ("olouel Sevier, with his forces, marched immediately
against V'ann's Towns, which he reduced tO' ashes, and thence to
Bull Town, at the head of Chickamogga creek. After the destruc-
tion of this town they marched to the Coosa river, where they
killed a white man by the name of Clements, upon whose person
was found papers fi'om which it was ascertained that he was a ser-
geant in the British army, and it was believed that he instigated.
WasJiington Comity, 1777-1S70. 361
the Indians in their depreciations against the frontiers. The army
then proceeded to Spring Frog Town, thence up the Coosa river to
Estanola, an Indian town, which they destroyed. After thus de-
stroying the Indian towns and killing all the Indian warriors they
could find, the troops returned to Chote, where a council was held
with the friendly Indians, at the conclusion of which the troops
were disbanded and returned to their homes.
This may be said to be the last expedition against the Indians
in which the militia of Washington county in any numbers parti-
cipated. Washington county was not much longer to be considered
a portion of the frontiers, and her citizens soldier}^ was soon to
be deprived of an occupation which they always followed with
avidity — that of waging war against the Indians and Tories.
In April of this year a party of Xorthward Indians came into the
settlement on Clinch and killed and scalped two daughters of Cap-
tain John Maxwell's and took nine prisoners. On the same occa-
sion they visited the home of Captain Eobert Moffett near the
Clinch river. Two sons of Captain Moffett's being at a sugar camp
near their home, were killed and scalped by the Indians.
Thomas Inglis, who was reared at Draper's Meadows, had, with
his family, some time previous to this time, settled in Burk's Gar-
den on a piece of land that had been patented by his father, William
Inglis, about thirty years previously. His nearest and only neigh-
bor at this time was Joseph Hix, who lived about two miles from
his home. A large party of Indians under the command of "Black
Wolf," a noted Indian warrior, in April of this year visited Burk's
Garden, and while Inglis was out on his farm surrounded his house
and took his wife and three children and a negro man and woman
prisoners, and, after loading the negroes with as much property
as they could carry, they burned the house. Inglis, observing the
size of the party, decided to make his way to the nearest settle-
ment and obtain help. He, with a colored man, crossed the moun-
tains to the settlement in the Eich Valley (now Smyth county),
and arrived at that point at a very opportune time, the day being
the muster day for the inilitia of the community. As soon as
Inglis gave information of Avhat had occurred, about twenty men
volunteered to go. in pursuit of the Indians, and immediately be-
gan the march for Inglis' home, which they reached tlie next morn-
ins about daybreak, to find nothing but a heap of ashes where In-
363 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
g]is' house had formerly stood. Joseph Hix, Inglis' neighbor, dis-
covering the presence of tJie Indians in the coranmnity, immedi-
ately made his way to a small settlement, about six miles away,
where he obtained about six volunteers and returned to Burk's
Garden and joined tlie forces from Eich Valley. Tl\p company thus
composed immediately began the pursuit of the Indians. Captain
James Maxwell, who had during the same month lost two of his
daughters at the hands of the Indians, was placed in command of
the pursuers, and, after five days' cautious marching, the Indians
were discovered in camp in a gap of Tug mountain. The pursuers
were at once divided into two companies. Captain Maxwell, with
about one-half the number, undertook to get in front of the In-
dians, while Thomas Inglis, with anotlier party, was to attack them
in the rear. Captain Maxwell failed to get in a position to attack
the Indians by daylight, and Inglis and his party attacked them
alono. As soon as a shot was fired the Indians began to tomahawk
the prisoners. Thomas Inglis rushed into the Indian camp and
reached the side of his wife. At that moment she received a terri-
ble blow on the head with a tomahawk from an Indian, and in fall-
ing she protected the infant she held in her arms by covering it.
In addition to Mrs. Inglis' injuries, Mary Inglis and William Inglis,
children of Thomas Inglis, were scalped. The Indians, in making
their escape, passed near Captain IMaxwell and his men, upon whom
they fired, one ball striking Captain Maxwell and killing him in-
stantly. He wore a white hunting shirt, and was a good target for
the Indian fire. The pursuers encamped upon the ground for the
night, and proceeded to bury Captain Maxwell and William Inglis,
the 3'^oung boy who died from his wounds. The number of Indians
killed at this time is not known.
Maxwell's Gap, in the Tug Eidge, is the locality of this occur-
rence. Mary Inglis, the little girl, died a few days after the skir-
inisl), but Mrs. Inglis entirely recovered from her injuries.
In the same month the Indians killed a man on Bluestone and a
woman at Culberson's Bottom, on 'New river. It is a remarkable
fact that of the five houses visited by the Indians in this month
four l)elonged to militia officers, and some of them were a con-
siderable distance within the frontier settlements; from which fact
it is reasonable to suppose that the Indians were prompted and led
by Tory sympathizers in their assaults upon the frontiers.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 363
Major John Taylor, who was in command of the militia on the
upper waters of the Clinch, pursued the different parties of invading
Indians, but did not succeed in overtaking them, and Colonel Pres-
ton was compelled, for the protection of the settlements, to direct
Colonel Joseph Cloyd to call out the militia and to station them at
"David Doak's Mill" to protect the settlements. The consternation
produced along the frontiers from Powell's Valley to the head of
the Clinch was so great that the Governor directed Colonel William
Preston to assemble the field oflBcers of Montgomery and Wash-
ington counties at the Lead Mines at once to devise ways and means
to protect the frontiers. This meeting of the field officers took
place on July 6, 1782, on which day the following proceedings were
had:
At a meeting of the field officers of the militia of Montgomery
and Washington counties, in conformity to instructions received
from Ilis Excellency, the Governor, etc., to concert and settle some
proper plan for the defence of both counties. Present :
Field Officers for Montgomery County.
William Preston, Daniel Trigg,
Walter Crockett, John Taylor>
Joseph Cloyd, Abraham Trigg.
Field Officers for Washington County.
Arthur Campbell, Aaron Lewis,
William Edmiston, James Dysart, and
Major Patrick Lockhart, District Commissioner.
It is the unanimous opinion of the Board of Officers that the
200 men permitted to be drawn out by His Excellency, the Governor,
for the defence of the frontiers be disposed of into the following
districts, namely, on New river, in the neighborhood of Captain
Pearis, 30 men; Sugar Eun, 20; Captain Moore's, head of Blue-
stone, 25 ; head of Clinch, 25 men.
In Washington, at Eichland, 20 ; Castle's Woods, 30 ; Eye Cove,
20; Powell's Valley, 30 men. The extent of the difi;erent districts,
from Captain Pearis's to Sugar Eun, 10 miles ; to Captain Moore's
head of Bluestone, 30; to Captain Maxwell's, head of Clinch, 16
miles, which is nearest the Washington line; to Eichland's, 24; to
Castle's Woods, 30 ; to Eye Cove, 28 ; to Powell's Valley Fort. 56
miles, in all 164 miles.
364 Southwest Virginia, 171,6-1186.
AVe find the greatest difficulty in making any provision for the
support of these men while on duty, as there is no specific tax
brought into the place appointed for that purpose in either of the
counties ; the olTicers have therefore recommended Major Lockhart,
tlie District Commissioners, to purchase 200 bushels of corn in ]\Iont-
goinery county, at the most convenient places where the militia are
to do duty, at three shillings a bushel, being the current price, and
an equal quantity in the county of Washington, for the use of the
troops, etc., which we are convinced will be a great saving to the
State, as the transporting from Botetourt, where there is some
belonging to the public on hand, to the several districts where the
militia are to do duty, will be attended with very great expense, the
distance being from GO to 100 miles, &c.
As objections have been made to that part of the Governor's
instructions ordering the direction of the militia of both counties
while on duty, under that of the county-lieutenant of Montgomery,
who lives upward of one hundred and eighty miles from Powell's
Valley and not less than ninety miles from Eichland District, in
Washington, which renders it impossible and useless for him to havn
these men under his directions, for which reason he declined that
part of tlie coinmand : Let it therefore be humbly recommended to
His Excellency the Governor, to alter that part of his orders, by
giving the superintendence of the troops in each county to the com-
manding off.cer of the same, as it will save the expense of a field
officer being on duty, which otherwise would be necessary, and the
defense of the frontier will in all probability be better conducted.
The Board of Officers are unanimously of opinion that the coun-
ties of IMontgomery and Washington will provide the number of men
ordered for tlieir defense, without calling on any of the neig1iI)oring
counties for assistance, unless there is a real reason for doing so in
some emergency or on the approach of a large body of the enemy.
They also beg leave to suggest that the usual manner the Indians
conduct their attacks on our settlements makes it necessary that a
proper number of scouts be employed in each district to discover
their approaches, for which reason it had induced the officers to
direct that two be employed in each district for the iuimediate
safety of the inhabitants.
Pursuant to the recommendation thus made by tlie field officers
of the two counties, the number of militia recommended were sta-
Washinglon County, ]777-1870. 365
tioned at the places designated, and all placed under the command
of Colonel Arthur Campbell, of Washington count}'.
About this time the frontier settlement in Powell's Valley was
much harassed b}' small parties of Cherokee Indians from the
Chickamogga towns, who, in the spring of this year, killed two
men, and had almost ruined the inhabitants by destroying or car-
rying off their stock. Captain Samuel Newell, who was in com-
mand of the militia in that locality, pursued the Indians on several
occasions, and at one time had the good luck to overtake two of
their parties, one about forty-five miles above the Cuttawa or Cum-
berland Gap, and firing upon them in camp, wounded some and
retook everything. The other party was overtaken when asleep;
when one was killed and another wounded, and the rest of the party
were forced to make their way home naked.
About this time, as two friendly Indians were coming up tlie Hols-
ton river, with a canoe loaded with skins for Colonel Joseph Mar-
tin at Long Island, they were killed by two of the settlers, who,
in attempting to dispose of their skins, were detected, but the
inhabitants in the community of Long Island would not permit tlio
criminals to be brought to justice, alleging against the Indians in
general the late depreciations on the frontiers.
In the year 1781, a company of eleven Indians visited the home
of a Mr. Hamblin, on Clinch river, near Castle's Woods. Mrs. Ham-
blin, who was at home, barred the doors to her house and defended
it against the attack of the Indians with an old musket-gun that
would not fire. But in the spring of the year 1782, the Indians
returned to her home, at which time they succeeded in killing and
scalping Mrs. Hamblin and all her children except one, a little
boy, whom they carried a prisoner into Canada.
In July of this year, Oconostato, who was the principal chief of
the Cherokee Indians, resigned his authority to his son, an Indian
chief by the name of Tuckasee, and the frontier settlements had
great hope of peace. On the 26th day of July, Ellis Harland, a
noted Indian trader, returned from the Chickamogga Indians with
the information that they desired peace, and that they were to set out
for Chote with all their prisoners, the day he left them ; and, in a
few days thereafter, Springstone, an Indian trader, brought to the
settlements two prisoners, one a woman taken from Green river
in Kentucky, her name being Stanley, the other a boy about ten
3G6 Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
years old, a son of Thomas Steward, wlio was killed going down the
river with Colonel Donaldson, when on his way to Cumberland.
But, notwithstanding these professions of peace, a party of north-
ward Indians penetrated this county in the month of August and
killed two men: and on the 11th day of September, 1782, a party of
northward Indians came as far as the settlement on the head of the
Moccasin creek, within twelve miles of Abingdon, and attacked a
family of fourteen persons, killing the husband on the spot, cap-
turing the wife and six little children, three of whom were shortly
afterward inhumanly murdered. One of the three, a young woman,
survived the blows received from the Indians long enough to tell
the tragic tale. Two, the wife and one child, made their escape
the first day and night.
A considerable booty in horses was carried off by the Indians.
When news of this invasion reached the settlement, the militia on
duty, wath perseverance in pursuing through a most rugged and
difficult way, overtook the Indians and wounded several of them, on
McClure, in Buchanan county, Virginia, and recovered unhurt the
wife and child, with the Indian baggage and all the plunder they
had taken.
In September of this year, the Chickamogga Indians met Colonel
Joseph Martin, at che Indian town, Chote, and delivered to him all
tlie white prisoners in their possession? except three, whom they
coidd not possibly get to the Indian town by the time appointed ; and
Colonel ]\lartin, in addressing Colonel Campbell in regard to this
subject, said: "1 believe that never people were more desirous of
peace than the Cherokees."
Notwithstanding the disposition of the Cherokees, and their efforts
to bring about peace, their warriors were being constantly persuaded
by the Tories, residing in their nations, to commit depredations
upon the frontier settlements, and, during this year, in Kentucky
county alone, eighty-five people were killed and scalped by the
Indians. Colonel Campbell in the fall of this year, in a letter
addressed to a Virginia official, said: "What if it should be the
policy of the British ministry to drive from the other side of the
Appalachian mountains all the settlers, before the signing of the pre-
liminaries of peace?" and, in the same letter, he advised a strong
expedition against the northward Indians, and declared that the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 367
state of our western affairs calls for the united wisdom and most
serious attention of the Executive.'
While the Continental army, with the assistance of the regular
quota of troops from the Tranalleghany settlements, were repelling
the attacks of the British and winning the liberty of our country,
the frontiersmen of Western Viriginia and North Carolina were
winning the great West and were repelling the assaults of the Brit-
ish and their Indian allies.
On Christmas day, 1782, a party of Indians attacked the house of
John Inglis, on Clinch river> and scalped and otherwise grievously
wounded a young man by the name of Cox, whom they overtook in
a field, and two days thereafter, near the head of Sandy river, this
same company of Indians overtook three himters, two of whom they
killed.
Early in the year 1783, about twelve years after the first settle-
ment at Castle's Woods, a party of northward Indians invaded the
settlement and attacked the fort at Hamblin's IMill.
This fort was erected by Henry Hamblin, one of the first set-
tlers in that section, in the year 1776, with the assistance of Henry
Dickinson, Charles Bickley, William Robertson, William Russell,
Patrick Porter, Henry Neece, William Wharton, Humphrey Dick-
inson, Frederick Fryley, James Bush, Archelas Dickinson, Samuel
Ritchie, Jerry Harrold, Richard and William Long and William
Bowlin, the first settlers in that section.
The home of Henry Hamblin had, previously to this time, been
twice invaded by the Indians, and in the spring of the year 1782,
liis entire family, with the exception of a little boy, who was carried
into captivity, were killed and scalped, and now this fort was
again assailed by a company of Indians numbering seventeen.
The Indians first ajipoared in the community at the house of
...-Joseph Ray, whom they killed and scalped along with several of his
family and a neighlwr by the name of Samuel Hughes, who hap-
pened to be at Ray's house at the time; besides killing these per-
sons they made several others ]irisoners before they reached the fort.
As they approached the fort they met a young woman by the name
of Ann Neeee, whom they tomahawked and scalped and left for
dead. "They then approached the fort and were discovered by
Simon Oscher, Henry Dickenson and Charles Bickley, whO' hap-
pened to be working at a mill near by. The Indians observing them
368 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
about the same time and the white men being unarmed, their sit-
uation was a fearful one. It was now to be a struggle which party
should get to the fort first. Charles Bickley remarked, "Boys, follow
me," and they all started for the fort at full speed, the Indians halt-
ing to fire upon them. They got safely into the fort through a
shower of balls, without receiving a scratch, thus literally running
the gauntlet. There were but two gims in the fort, and with these
Ocsher and Dickenson, each, killed an Indian. The balance of the
savages knowing nothing of the strength of the fort, and their guns
being empty, hastily picked up their fallen companions and fled
into the woods. Meeting with a colored man who was hunting sheep,
and who belonged to Henry Dickenson, they captured him and he
was never heard of afterwards.
Some hours after their departure, and while there were still appre-
hensions of their return by the few persons in the fort, Ann Neeeo
was seen slowly approaching, as bloody as if she had been dipped in
a pool of gore, with streams jetting from her head apparently as
numerous as had been the hairs of her head before she was scalped,
each jet about the size of a hair. She recovered, married and raised
a family, and some of her descendants are still living in Eussell
county."*
Colonel Daniel Smith, upon hearing of this invasion, gathered
a number of men and marched to Hamblin's Mill, expecting to pur-
sue the Indians, but when he arrived upon the scene, he ascertained
that a party of fifteen men had some time prior to that time pursued
the enemy.
On the 21st day of March of the same year, notwithstanding every
precaution had been taken by the militia officers to protect the peo-
ple, a party of Indians had gotten in, undiscovered by the inhab-
itants of Clinch and Blue Lick, to Walker's creek, where they killed
one man and took his wife and two children and two children of a
widow prisoners. Two days thereafter a man was killed on Blue-
stone by the Indians. The Indians who made this raid were imme-
diately pursued by experienced woodsmen, but were not overtaken.
The locality of this Indian raid on Walker's creek is in Bland
county, and the family whose head was killed and whose wife and
children were carried into captivity, was named White. The fol-
lowing incident connected with the subsequent history of one of the
*Charles B. Coale.
WasUngion County, 1777-1870. 369
children captured by the Indians that day and carried into cap-
tivity, is preserved :
"A number of years after, during one of the expeditions by Gren-
eral Clarke to quell the Indians in Kentuckj^, he had encamped on
the banks of tlie Ohio, awaiting the return of the scouts who had
been sent out to reconnoitre. One of his men by the name of White,
from Wahvoi'^s creek, and l)r()t]ier of the boy that had been stolen, was
out a short distance from camp in search of game, when he saw
a solitary Indian sitting on a log mending his moccasins. His first
impulse was to shoot him, as all tlie Indians in that region were
hostile, but fearing the report of his gun might start up a score of
red skins in the vicinity, and as the back of the savage was towards
liim. he concluded to approach stealthily, and capture him alive. He
did so and took him into camp. From his hair and other indica-
tions, they su])])osed him to be a white man, and after com-
pelling hinf to scrub the paint off, their suspicions were confirmed.
They subsequently learned through an interpreter, as the capti-ve
had forgotten his native language, that his name was White, and
that he had been stolen by the Indians from his home in Virginia,
when a child. He eventually proved to be the brother of the man
who captured him and came so near taking his life.
"The brothers lived many years, settled in Kentucky, and he wlio
had been so many years among the Indians was a delegate in the
Legislature in the early organization of the State"*
During the summer of 1780, Colonel William Campbell was
recommended by the county court and commissioned by the Gover-
nor as Sheriff of Washington county, which office he declined, where-
upon Daniel Smith was recommended and commissioned as Sheriff,
which office he accepted, and named John Yancey and Matthew
Willoughby, as deputy sheriffs of the county.
In the spring of the year 1781, the militia of Washington county
was reorganized and divided into two battalions, which battalions
were officered as follows : First battalion. Colonel, Walliam Camp-
bell; Lieutenant- Colon el, William Edmiston; Major, Aaron Lewis.
Second battalion. Colonel, Daniel Smith ; Lieutenant-Colonel,
Joseph Martin; Major, Thomas Mastin.
The first battalion was composed of the militia south of the
Clinch mountain, and the second battalion of officers and men north
*Charles B. Coale.
370 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
of Clinch mountain; which arrangements continued without inter-
ference until the spring of 1782, some time after the death of Gen-
eral William Campbell, when the officers of the first battalion were
us follows: Colonel, William Edmiston; Lieutenant-Colonel, Aaron
Lewis; Major, James Dysart, and this arrangement continued until
the end of the Revolutionary war.
In the spring of the year 1781, a number of gentlemen qualified
as deputies to Robert Preston, surveyor of Washington county, tlieir
names being: David Carson, Walter Preston, Andrew Lewis, Charles
Campbell and Benjamin Sharp.
Previously to the year 1781, it seems that the ministers of the dis-
senting churches were not authorized by law to perform the rite of
matrimony between any of the citizens of the Commonwealth, and,
if they did so, considerable doubt was expressed as to the legality of
the marriage. It was necessary that the marriage ceremony, to be
legal, should be performed by a minister of the Church of England,
and that minister, in this portion of Virginia, was the Rev. Adam
Smyth, who lived in Botetourt county, Virginia.
I cannot -ascertain whether our early settlers were united in mar-
riage according to the prescribed method, or whether they were
united by the dissenting ministers, but it is certain that the situ-
ation was such that the General Assembly of Virginia, at its Octo-
ber session, 1780, enacted a law declaring what should be consid-
ered a lawful marriage. The preamble to this act declares its object
to be to encourage marriages and for removing doubts concerning
the validity of marriages celebrated by ministers, other than those
of the Church of England. By the act in question it was declared
that it should be lawful for any minister of any congregation to
celebrate the rite of matrimony according to the usage of the con-
gregation to which the parties to be married respectively belonged,
and declared such marriage, as well as those theretofore celebrated,
to be good and valid in law. But the act provided that no person
should be married without lawful license first had or thrice pub-
lication of bans in the respective congregations in which the parties
to be married severally resided, and the fee of the minister was
fixed at twenty-five pounds of tobacco, and no more. The minister
was required to make a certificate of the fact of marriage and return
it to the court, there to be recorded by the clerk.
This same act provided that the courts of the different coun-
WasUtigton County, 1777-1870. 371
ties shall, and are hereby authorized, on recommendation of the eld-
ers of the several religious sects, to grant license to dissenting min-
isters of the gospel, not exceeding the number of four of each sect
in an}^ one county, to join together in holy matrimony, any persons
within their counties only, which license shall be signed by the
judge, or elder magistrate imder his hand and seal.
Pursuant to this act, the following ministers of dissenting con-
gregations were granted license in tliis county:
Eev, Charles Cummings, Presbyterian,
Eev. Thomas Woolsey' Baptist,
Eev. Simon Cockrell, Baptist,
Eev. Joseph Ehea, Presbyterian,
Eev. Ebenezer Brooks,
Eev. Timothy Burgess, Baptist,
Eev. Thomas Brown Craighead, Presbyterian,
Eev. John Frost, Baptist,
Eev. Jacob Snyder, Eeg. Eeformed.
At the June term of the county court of this county, the follow-
ing orders were entered :
"Ordered that Francis Beattie and Jonas Smith view the way for
a road from near the junction of a path that now goes by the
Ebbing Spring Meeting-House, and mark the said road, with blazes,
and that Francis Beattie be the overseer of said road."
"On motion of Ann Meek, leave is granted her to keep an ordi-
nary at her own house- she giving bond and security according to
law."
"Ordered that Adam Hope have leave to build a mill on his own
land."
And at the August term, 1781, tJie folowing order was entered:
"Ordered that John Yancy have a bar, clerk's seat, sheriff's box,
the upper floor laid, one pair of stairs, three windows and shutters,
for the courthouse, and prepare the prison and finish the stocks."
And at the March term, 1782, the following orders were entered:
"Ordered that two sixpence be levied on each tithable for the
purpose of purchasing a wagon for the use of the United States."
At this time there existed a controversy between the citizens of
Washington and Montgomery counties, as to the true location of the
dividing line between the counties, and at the May term, 1783, the
county court of this county, agreed with the court of Montgomery
373 Suuthiccst Virginia, 1746-1786.
eouiitv to the ii])|)oi]iliiu'iit of Iliigli Fulton to run the line divid-
ino- the two counties, Avhieli he did and made his report on the Gth
day of May- ITSo. The following is a copy of the courses, dis-
tances and houndaries betAveen the counties of Washington and
Montgomery, as fixed by this report:
"Beginning at a white walnut and buckeye at the ford of Hol-
ston next above the Royal Oak, and runneth thence — N. 31 W. over
Brushy mountain, one creek. Walker's mountain north fork of Hol-
ston, Locust cove, Little mountain, Poor Valley creek. Clinch moun-
tain, and the south fork of Clinch to a double and. single sugar trees
and two buckeye saplings on Bare grass hill, the west end of Mor-
ris' knob,, fifteen miles and three quarters. Thence from said Imob
north crossing the spurs of the vsame, and Paint Lick mountain the
north fork of Clinch by John Hines' plantation, and over the river
ridge by James Poark's in the Baptist Valley, to a sugar tree and
two white oaks on the head of Sandy five miles, one quarter — twenty
poles.
"The beginning at said walnut and buckeye above the Royal Oak,
and running south, crossing the middle fork of Holston, Campbell's
mill creek, three mountains, the south fork of Holston above Jones*
mill, his mill creek, four mountains, Fox creek to six white pines on
the top of Iron mountain by a laurel thicket, eleven miles, three
quarters and sixty poles.
"The distance of said line from the head of Sandy to the top of the
Iron mountain is thirty-three miles.
"Executed and returned. May th.e 6th, 1783.
"HUGH FULTOT^."
In the spring of the year 1783 there was a requisition upon the
county lieutenant of Washington county for a troop of horse, which
troop Avas raised, and by order of the county court entered at the
March term, 1783. Robert Campbell, William Dryden and Robert
Kennedy were appointed officers of said company.
In the early days of our history, when any one of our citizens was
sued for debt, he was arrested by the sheriff and required to give
good security or go to jail, and it must be very interesting to the
reader of the present day to understand the obligation that a secu-
rity assumed at that day, and we give the following order for the
information of the reader.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 373
In the suit of William Houston vs. Thomas Smith, for a debt the
following order was entered on the 19th day of September, 1782:
"Abraham Fulkerson of this county came into court, and under-
takes for the defendant, that in case he shall be cast in this suit,
he shall satisfy and pay the condemnation of the court or render
his body to prison in execution for the same, or that he, the said
Abraham Fulkerson, will do it for him."
The General Assembly of Virginia, by an Act passed in the year
17S1, permitted certain citizens of the Commonwealth to pay their
taxes in such stock and provisions as could be used by the Conti-
nental army, and in April of the year 1783 John Campbell was
appointed a commissioner to receive these commutable articles at
the to-\vn of Abingdon. At the same term of the court a gentle-
man qualified to practice law, who afterwards became distinguished
in the history of Kentucky, the Honorable John Brown.
Tn the early days of the history of this county, it was customary
for the overseers of the poor to apprentice the poor orphan children
of the county, aud the order of the court authorizing such, is clearly
shown by an order entered at the May term, 1783, in the county
court of this county, which is as follows :
"Ordered that James Stuart, an orphan child of Elizabeth Baker,
be boiuid to John Creenway for the term of seven years to learn the
art and mystery of blacksmith and cutler, during which time he is
to learn him, the said Stuart, to read and write and the five com-
mon rules of arithmetic, and at the expiration of his apprenticeship
he is to give him a good suit of clothes, and to get part of his learn-
ing in the three last years of his time."
The members of our county court in those early days detested
the law-breaker and never failed to impose upon the guilty the
punishment prescribed by law, and their orders indicate that they
insisted upon a speedy execution of their judgments.
The following order was entered by the court on the 15th day of
July, 1783, upon the trial of a citizen of the coimty:
"This day came as M'ell the attorney for the Commonwealth as the
ra^'d defemdantl, whereupon, Mary Henderson wavs sworn and
examined, and the defendant heard in his own defence, on consid-
eration whereof, it is ordered that the said defendant pay ten pounds
in half an hour, or receive twenty lashes on his bare back well laid
on, at the common whipping post, &c."
The Continental Congress of the United Colonies received from
374
Southwest Virginia, 17J/0-17S6.
the British govoi-nnicnt, early in the fall of 1783, a proposal for
peace, and provisional articles were signed at Paris on the 13th day
of November, 1783. A proclamation declaring a cessation of hos-
tilities ^A'as published by the Continental Congress at Philadelphia
on the 7th day of April, 1783, and by the Governor of Virginia
on the 31st day of April, 1783; and a permanent treaty of peace
AVhipping Post.
was conchided on the 19th of April thereafter, by which treaty the
independence of the colonies was recognized.
Onr people had demonstrated to the world that they were patriots
and worthy of their independence. They were now to demonstrate
to the world that they were capable of forming a national character
and that they were worthy of the lilessings of liberty.
The Continental Congress of the United Colonies, by a proclama-
tion at a meeting on the 18th day of October, 1783, recommended
to all the people of the colonies the celebration of the 3d day of
Washington County, 1711-1810. 375
December, 1783, as a clay of public tbanksgiving, in token of their
gratitude to Almighty God for their deliverance and independence,
and pursuant thereto, the people of the colonies celebrated the day
in an appropriate manner.
For some cause that I cannot now explain, William Edmiston,
who was commissioned sheriff of Washington county, in the year
1782, refused to give security for the collection of the tax as directed
by law, but he seemed to have been permitted to execute the duties
of the office during the year and until the 16tli of March, 1781, on
which day, James Dysart produced the Governor's commission bear-
ing date the 8th day of December, 1783, :ap])ointing him sheriff of
Washington county, and took the oath of office, naming Alexander
Donaldson, James Craig, Christopher Acklin and Joseph Snodgrass,
deputy sheriffs, all of whom took the oath of office. At the same
time the court required the sheriff to give security for the collection
of the public tax for the year 1783, which security he refused to
give, whereupon the court directed that the clerk certify this fact
to the Governor, along with the names of the two next oldest magis-
trates in the commission of peace and who had not yet been com-
missioned sheriff', whereupon, the clerk, complying with the order of
the court, certified to the Governor, the names of John Kinkead and
James Montgomery, whereupon James Dysart excepted to the action
of the court, by his counsel, John BroAra, and gave the following
reasons for his non-compliance, to-wit :
"That he did not receive his' commission until some time in Feb-
ruary, and no court being held imtil the present date it was utterly
out of his power to comply with the law in making the collection
for the yea? 1783; that he is ready and will exert himself, if con-
tinued in office, to make the collection for the present year in which
he received his commission, and would willingly undertake to col-
lect arrears, if sufficient time would be given by amendment of the
revenue law at the next meeting of the Assembly; that he humbly
conceives that neither the letter nor the spirit of the law can operate
so against him as to deprive him of his right secured by the constitu-
tion, the authority of which he trusts will always be deemed para-
mount to any particular act."
The order of the court recommending John Kinkead and James
Montgomery for the position of sheriff for the county is as follows :
"Ordered that John Kinkead and James Montgomery be recom-
:i76 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
mended to His Excellency the Governor as fit and cajiable persons
for sheriff of Washington county, also, that Joseph Martin stands
first in the commission of the peace, but he being a senator for Sul-
livan county in the State of North Carolina, we leave it to the
Executive to judge right."
Notwithstanding the protest of Captain Uysart, he lost his posi-
tion, and the Governor, on the 5th day of June, 1784, commis-
sioned John Kinkead, but he, in turn, failed and refused to give
tlie liond required by law, whereupon, the county court of this county
recommended James Montgomery and Thouias Mastin, as fit and
capable persons for sheriffof the county, and James Montgomery
was commissioned as such, and gave the bond required by law, on
the 18th day of January, 1785.
When Montgomery assumed the duties of this position, the peo-
ple of Washington county had not paid their taxes for three years.
While the reason is not known, it is fair to suppose from other facts
that are known, that Colonel Arthur Campbell induced Edmiston,
Dysart and Kinkead to refuse to give the security for the collec-
tion of the taxes, and that he prompted the people in their refusal to
pay their taxes.
Archibald Scott was one of the pioneers of that quiet and beau-
tiful little valley that nestles between Powell's mountain and
Wallen's ridge in Lee county, along which Wallen's creek winds
its noisy and meandering way, and which is now the home of so
many happpy and prosperous families. This little valley was
sejected by the first settlers for its fertility, its water facilities, its
superior range, romantic surroimdings and remoteness from the
usual route of predatory bands of Indians, who, at that day, occa-
sionally left their toAvns beyond the Ohio to prey upon the scattered
settlers on the Holston. Mr. Scott had married Miss Fannie Dicken-
son, of Eussell county, many of whose relatives are still living there.
Being the daughter of one of the brave and hardy pioneers of Castle's
Woods, she had been reared among the dangers and excitements of
frontier life, and hence was a companion upon whose coolness and
fortitude her fearless and enterprising husband coidd depend in their
new home on the verge of civilization. They removed to it in 1783
just five years after Daniel Boone had passed along the same trace
with his family on their way to the wilderness beyond the Cumber-
land, and twelve years before the Indian raid on the Livingston
WasJiington County, 1777-1870. 377
family on Holston. He located a corn right to all that valuable
tract of one thousand acres subsequently owned by Mr. Eobert Duff,
and still in the possession of Mr. Duff's descendants. Mr. Scott
erected his cabin on the head waters of Wallen's creek, near the spot
now occupied by the residence of ]\[r. Thomas D. Duff.
Here, with his wife and little ones, he was living on the rewards of
honest toil, and doubtless looking forward with prophetic vision to
the day, not far in the future, when that rich and romantic valley-
reposing so quietly among the mountains, would teem with wealth
and a happy population. He bared his brawny arm and cleared the
forest, and for three years his cabin was the home of contentment,
plenty and domestic joys. On June 20, 1785, the family, after a day
of toil and after partaking of their frugal meal, had retired to rest,
without a thought perhaps of impending danger, and dreaming per-
cliance of the luxuriant harvest so soon to be reaped and garnered.
That pleasant summer day, as Mr. Scott was toiling amid the grow-
ing corn, he was seen and watched by a band of about twenty Shaw-
nese Indians, who, by some means, had been diverted from their
usual route, and, having observed the smoke rising from the cabin,
were attracted towards it, and lay in ambush on the mountain side
till night spread her curtain over the valley. When all was quiet
they approached and entered, and the first notice that the hus-
band and father had of their presence was the gleam of the toma-
hawk that killed him in his bed. The leader of the band was the
notorious and cruel half-breed Benge, who was killed six years there-
after, not many miles from the same place, as he was making his
way to Big Stone Gap, with the Livingston captives. After scalping
Mr. Scott they murdered and scalped his five children, plundered
and burned the cabin, took Mrs. Scott prisoner, and started back on
their long journey to their towns beyond the Ohio. Her suffering
during this journey over steep mountains and through deep and
rapid streams was indescribable. When faint and weary and foot-
sore, she failed to travel as rapidly as her captors desired, they would
slap her in the face with the bloody scalps of her husband and
children. Being a woman of great strength, activity and nerve, she
bore up wonderfully, and even surprised the savages by her endu-
rance.
After traveling about two hundred miles and reaching one of their
fa^'orite hunting grounds in Kentucky, not far from the Ohio, they
378 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
stopped a few days to rest and Inmt. It was decided among them,
that one of the Indians, when they reached their town on the Miami,
should have their captive for a wife, and hence he was designated
to guard her while the rest were engaged in the hunt. Some hours
after they left, the Indian on guard fell into a profound sleep. See-
ing which and making a noise that did not seem to disturb his slum-
bers, she determined to kill him with his own tomahawk which lay
by his side, and then try to escape. She took the weapon and raised
it above his head' but, being weak and nervous from fatigue and
distress of mind, she feared she might not be able to strike a fatal
blow and concluded to make an effort to escape. She made her way
to a spring a short distance from the camp, waded along the branch
to conceal her trail, and was soon safe from the pursuit of her
guard in a thick cane-brake. Hearing those who were hunting not
a great way off, she wait'^d until their whooping died in the dis-
tance, when she started out on the long and perilous journey towards
the Cumberland mountain, the dim outlines of which she had seen
as she crossed an elevation. For weeks she wandered through the
unbroken forest without food and almost destitute of raiment, sub-
sisting on berries, barks and roots, and many days wandering so
much out of her way as to make but a mile ot two. Finally coming
to a river (supposed to be the Kentucky), she foimd a path on the
bank which she followed. One morning while following the path
up the stream, she heard a hunting party meeting her, and seeing
a large sycamore near the path, she stepped behind it and fortu-
nately found it hollow where she concealed herself, imtil the Indians
had passed. A day or two after this and before she had reached the
head waters of the stream, she heard the Indians on her trail with
dogs. She crawled into a hollow log that lay across the path, over
which some of them jumped their ponies, and others passed around
the end without discovering her.
After the Indians had disappeared, she followed on very cautiously
till she came to where the path forked. This perplexed her some-
what, not knowing which to take. She finally took the left, which
seemed to be the plainest, when a bird flew past, touched her shoulder
and lighted in the other path. She kept on, however, but had pro-
ceeded but a few steps when the bird repeated its singular action.
This led her to stop and reflect, and, coming to the conclusion that
the bird was the spirit of one of her murdered children come to
Washington County, 1777-1870. 379
guide her throuo-h tlie wilderness, she took the other path, which
proved to be the right one, and led her through what is now known
as Pound Gap. She eventually made her wa}^ intO' Castle's Woods,
where many of her relatives resided and still reside.
^ After some years, Mrs. Scott married Mr. Thomas Johnson, for
whom the county of Johnson in Tennessee was called. She raised a
family of children, all of Avhom married and became useful and
respectable members of society. She lived to an advanced age, and
her ashes now repose on a little hillock near the old blacksmith shop,
not far from the l)ase of Clinch mountain at Hayter's Gap, in Eus-
sell county, Virginia."*
In addition to the facts contained in this account as preserved by
]\Ir. Coale, we are able to give from reliable documentary authority,
the following :
"Another house stood by the residence of Archibald Scott, in
which was a little girl eleven or twelve years old, with her brother
some years j^oimger than herself.
"Into this house the Indians did not enter for some reason, but
shot through the door and killed the boy, whereupon the girl
sprang out at a window and hid in a nursery of young peach trees
til] the Indians were gone. She then re-entered the house, laid out
her dead brother, and sat by him all night, and till late the next day,
when a pa-rty of men arrived to bury the dead."
The history of Washington county from this time henceforth, will
be uninteresting as compared with that portion of our history with
which we have been dealing.
In April of the year 1784, a number of depredations were com-
mitted by the Indians in Powell's Valley and on the Kentucky road.
A boy was killed and a girl taken prisoner in Powell's Valley, and
a man and a woman and two children were killed in the winter of
] 784, on the Kentucky road by a party of Cherokees under a young
Indian chief by the name of Rattlesnake, and within the same year
three men were killed near Cimiberland Gap, by the Creeks, and a
boy killed and scalped and an arrow left in his breast on Powell's
river.
In the year 1783, the Governor and Council of Virginia authorized
the building of a fort at Cumberland Gap, on the Virginia side of
the line, which fort was erected under the supervision of Colonel
*Charles B. Coale.
380 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Joseph Martin in the fall of 1783. This fort was intended to be
the residence of Colonel Joseph Martin, the Virginia Commissioner
to the Indians, who of necessity had to remove from Long Island,
then ascertained to be in the State of jSTorth Carolina. Into this
fort there gathered about one hundred persons, and upon the out-
break of hostilities, it was with difficnlty that they could be prevented
from breaking up. Captain James Shelby had been killed near this
station on his way to Washingion county, and a man had been killed
on the north fork of Holston river on the 5th of A])ril, and ten days
afterward a man was wounded with arrows on the head waters of
Clinch.
In Septeml^er of the year 1784, a party of Shawnese Indians
ascended the Sandy river and, passing over to the head of Clinch,
divided into small parties to steal horses and annoy the settlers. One
of these parties came to the present location of Tazewell courthouse,
where they visited the home of Andrew Davidson. Davidson's fam-
ily consisted of a wife and three children, two small girls and a boy
and two orphan children by the name of Broomfield. Mr. Davidson
was absent from his home at the time of which we are speaking.
When the Indians appeared at the house they informed Mrs. David-
son that she must go with them to their home in the West, and there
being nothing else that she could do, she took up her youngest child,
the Indians carrying the others, and began the journey. Mrs.
Davidson received kinder treatment at the hands of the Indians than
she expected, and proceeded on tbe way to their homes beyond the
Ohio. But, when, the India,ns arrived at their homes they took Mrs.
Davidson's two little girls, tied them to trees and shot them before
her eyes. The boy was given to an old Indian squaw and was soon
afterwards accidentally droAvned, Mrs. Davidson was sold to a
Frenchman living in Canada, where she was found by her husband
after several jeaTS and returned to her home. Another company
of Indians at the same time killed William Whitley, who lived in
Baptist Valley. They mutilated his body in a terrible manner ; his
bowels were torn out and stretched upon the bushes ; his heart was in
one place and his liver in another. Another company of this same
band of Indians discovered Henry Ilarman and his two sons, George
and Ma,thias, and George Draper hunting in a section of country
through which the Indian trail led. Ilarman and his associates
were not expecting Indians so late in the season, and early in the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 381
morning the}' Iniilt their camp.. Harraan's two sons had gone out
to see whether tliey could find game, when, to their surprise, tliey
discovered an Indian camp but a short distance from their own,
with ever} indication of the very recent presence of the Indians.
They returned to camp and reported what they had found; where-
upon tlie himters immediately proceeded to return to the settlements.
They had not proceeded far before they were fired upon l^y the
Indians from behind a log, whereu23on, the Indians immediately
advanced on Henry Harman, Avho fell back to where his sons stood
I'eady to meet the Indians. A right brisk figlit took place, a
description of which is as follows :
"The Indians immediately surrounded the Avhite men, who had
formed a triangle, each man looking out, of what would have been
Mith men enough, a hollow square. The old gentleman bade ]\Iathias
to reserve his fire, while himself and George fired, wounding, as it
would seem, two of the Indians. George was a lame man from hav-
ing had white swelling in his childhood, and after firing a few rounds
the Indians noticed his limjiing, and one who had fired at him,
rushed upon him thinking hiui w^ounded. George saw the fatal
tomahawk raised, and drawing back his gun prepared to meet it.
When the Indian had got within striking distance, George let down
upon his head with the gun, which brought him to the ground; he
soon recovered and made at him again, half bent and head fore-
most, intending, no doubt, to trip him up, but as he got near enough,
George sprang up and jumped across him, which brought the Indian
to his knees. Feeling for his own knife and not getting hold of it,
he seized the Indian's and plunged it deep into his side. Mathias
struck him on the head with a tomahawk, and finished the work
with him.
"TwOi Indians had attacked the old man with bows, and were
manoeuvering around him, to get a clear fire at his left breast. The
Harmans. to a man, wore their bullet pouches on the left side, and
with this and his arm he sO' completely shielded his breast, that tlie
Indians did not fire until they saw the old gentleman's gun nearly
loaded again, when one fired on him and struck his elbow near the
joint, cutting one of the principal arteries. In a second more the
fearful string was heard to vibrate, and an arrow" entered Mr. Har-
man's breast and lodged against a rib. He had by this time loaded
a gun, and was raising it to his face to shoot one of the Indians,
382 Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-17S0.
wlion tlic stream of blood from the wounded artery flew into the
pan, and so soiled his gun that it was impossilile to make it fire.
Eaising the gun, however, liad the effect to drive baok tlio Indians,
who retreated to where the otliers stood with their guns ein])ty.
"jMathias who had remained an almost inactive spectator, now
asked permission to fire, which the old man granted. The Indian
at whom he fired appeared to he the chief and was standing under
a large beach tree. At the report of the rifle, the Indian fell, throw-
ing his tomahawk high among the limbs of the tree under wliich he
stood.
"Seeing two of their number lying dead upon the ground, and two
more badly wounded, they immediately made off, passing by Draper,
who had left his horse, and concealed himself behind a log."*
Draper, as soon as the Indians had passed him, fled to the set-
tlements and reported that Harman and his sons were killed. A
number of people set out the next morning to bury the dead, when to
their surprise they met Harman and his sons returning to their
homes.
This same l>ody of Indians sent three of tlieir number into Abb's
Valley, where resided Captain James Moore and John Poage. Near
the home of Captain James Moore, they captured his son, James
^loore, Jr., a boy, fourteen years old. They took the young man to
a field where his father's horses were running at large, and tried to
capture the horses, failing in which they proceeded on their jour-
ney to the Ohio. When they came near their towns in Ohio, the
Indians painted themselves black, but did not paint the boy. The
cliief sold young ]\Ioore to his half-sister, who afterwards sold him
to a French trader at Detroit, where young ]\loore met a trader
from Kentucky, who knew his father and whom he requested to
write to his father and inform him of his situation. He remained
in captivity until Octo1)er, 1789, and returned to his homo in Taze-
well county three years after the murder and captivity of his father
and family.
Early in the year of 1786, another party of Indians visited the
home of Captain James Moore in Abb's Valley, an account of which
visit has been preserved, which I give in full :
"In July, 1786, a party of forty-seven Indians, of the Shawnese
tribe, again entered Abb's Valley. Captain James Moore usually
Bickley's History of Tazewell.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 383
kept five or six loaded guns in liis house, which was a strong log
building, and hoped, b}' the assistance of his wife, who was very
active in loading a gun, together with Simpson, a man who lived
with them, to be able to repel the attacks of any small party of
Indians. IJelying on his prowess, he had not sought refuge in a
fort, as many of the settlers had ; a fact of which the Indians seemed
to be aware, from their cutting out the tongues of his horses and
cattle, and partially skinning them. It seems they were afraid to
attack him openly, and sought rather to drive him to the fort, that
they might sack his house.
"On the morning of the attack. Captain Moore, who had pre-
viously distinguished himself at Alamance, was at a lick bog a short
distance from his house, salting his horses, of which he had many.
William Clark and an Irishman were reaping wheat in front of the
house. ]\Irs. j\toore and the family were engaged in the ordinary
business of housework. A man named Simpson was sick upstairs.
"The two men Avho were in the field at work saw the Indians
coming at full speed down the hill toward Captain Moore, who had,
ere this, discovered them and started in a run for the house. He
was, however, shot through his body and died immediately. Tavo
of his children, William and Eebecca, who were returning from the
spring, were killed about the same time. The Indians had now
approached near the house and were met by two fierce dogs, which
fought manfully to protect the family of their master. After a
severe contest the fiercest one was killed and the other subdued.
"The two men wbo Avere reaping, hearing the alarm and seeing the
house surrounded, fled and alarmed the settlement. At that time
the nearest family was distant about six miles. As soon as the
alarm was given Mrs. Moore and Martha Ivens (who was living in
the family), barred the door, but this was of no avail. There was'
no man in the house at this time except Jolm Simpson, the old
Englishman already alluded to, and he was in the loft sick and'
in bed. There were five or six guns in the house, but, having been
shot off the evening before, they were then empty. They intended
to load them after breakfast. Martha Ivens took two of the guns
and went upstairs where Simpson was. and, handing them tc
him, told him to shoot. He looked up, but had been shot in the
head through a crack and was then near his end. The Indians then
proceeded to cut down the door, which they soon effected. During
384 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
this time Martha Ivens went to the far end of the house, lifted up a
loose plank, and went under the floor and requested Polly Moore
(then eight years old), who had the youngest child, called Margaret,
in her arms (which was crying), to^ set the child down and come
under. Polly looked at the child, and clasped it to her breast, and
determined to share its fate. The Indians, having broken into the
house, took Mrs. Moore and her children — viz. ; John, Jane, Polly
and Peggy, prisoners, and having taken everything that suited them,
they set it and the other buildings on fire, and went away. Martha
Ivens remained under the floor a short time and then came out
and hid herself under a log that lay across a branch not far from
the house. The Indians having tarried a short time with a view of
catching horses, one walked across on this log, sat down on one end
of it and began to fix his gunlock. Miss Ivens supposing that she
was discovered and that he was preparing to shoot her, came out
and gave herself up. At this he seemed much pleased. They then
set out for their towns. Perceiving that John Moore was a boy,
weak in body and mind and unable to travel, they killed him the
first day. The babe they took two or three days, but, it being fret-
ful on account of a wound it had received, they dashed its brains
out against a tree. They then moved on with haste to their towns.
FoT some time it was usual to tie very securely each of the prisoners
at night, and for a warrior to lie beside each of them, with toma-
hawk in hand, so that in case of pursuit, the jirisoner might be
speedily dispatched.
"Shortly after they reached the towns, IMrs. Moore and her daugli-
ter Jane were put to death, being burned and tortured at the stake.
This lasted some time, during which she manifested the utmost
Christian fortitude and bore it without a murmur, at intervals con-
versing with her daughter Polly and Martha Ivens, and exprassing
great anxiety for the moment to arrive when her soul should wing
its way to the bosom of its Saviour. At length an old squaw, more
humane than the rest, dispatched her with a tomahawk.
"Polly Moore and Martha Ivens eventually reached home, as
described in the narrative of James ]\foore.
"Several incidents in this narrative liave been left out. When the
Indians set fire to the house and started, they took from the stable
the fine black horse Yorick. He was a horse of such a vicious nature
iliat no one but Simpson could manage him. The Indians had not
Washingio7i County,- 11 71 -1870. 385
proceeded far when one- mounted liim^ but soon the horse had him
on the ground and was pawing him to death with his feet; for this
purpose a Iqw strokes were sufficient. Another mounted him and
was served in like manner. Perfectly wild with rage, a vei'y large
Indian mounted him, swearing to ride him or kill him. A few
])lungcs and the Indian was under the feet of the desperate horse-
his teeth buried in his flesh, and uttering a scream as if he intended
to avenge the death of his master, he had just dispatched the Indian
when another, running up, stabl)ed him, and thus put an end to
the conflict. 'Alas ! poor Yorick.'
"It is said that ]\Irs. INIoore had her body stuck full of lightwood
splinters which were fired, and she Avas thus tortured three days
before she died.
"When Martlia Ivens and Polly ]Moore Avere among the French
they fared much worse than when among the Indians. The French
had plenty, but were miserly, and seemed to care little for their
wants. The Indians had little, but would divide that little to the
particle."*
lii April. 178n. ]\I;ithias Ilarman and Benjamin Thomas, tAvo
scouts employed ])y the authorities of Eussell county, visited the
house of a man by the name of Dials, now in Tazewell county.
Dials kept liquor for sale, and Thomas and Harman were soon intox-
icated. Mrs. Dials was making preparations for dinner, Avhen Dials
and Thomas left tlie house to olitain wood. When they reached the
mouth of a lane about two hundred yards from the house, they Avere
ilred upon by a party ol six or seven Indians; seA^eral of the shot
struck Dials, and one of the Avarriors j^ursued him, in the direction
of his house. When they approached the house the Indian gave
up the pursuit, as he Avas aware of Harman's presence at the house,
and Dials reached the corner of the house, where he fell dead against
the chimncA^ Thomas was fired at, but was not shot ; he was, how-
ever, during the pursuit, knocked doAvn by the Indian, scalped and
left for dead. Thomas died seven days thereafter.
Harman, who was very much intoxicated at that time, ran out
of the house, mounted his horse and pursued the Indians, challeng-
ing them to stop and fight, which they declined. About this time
some Cherokee Indians killed two men near the the end of Clinch
mountain. The militia from the surrounding country combined
*Bickley's History of Tazewell.
386 Southwest Virginia, 1746-17S6.
and luan-lit'd within iii'tcon miles of their town, when they sent for
Old Tassel, The Hanging Man and other Indian chiefs, to
come to them, which they did, and informed the white people that
this murder was done by two or three Indian fellows who lived in
a town called Caw-a-tie, abont twenty miles below Chote, and that
they had been hired to do so by an old fellow from Chickamogga,
who had two sons killed by the white people last spring. The
Indian chiefs informed the white people that their desire was for
peace, but the white people answered that they would have their
lands, to which the Indians replied that they had no right to give
them their land, whereupon the whites immediately marched into
their towns, which they destroyed, along with a part of their corn,
and killed and shot several Indians. About this same time,
William ]\Iartin, a son of Colonel Joseph Martin, was killed by the
Creek Indians while on his way to Georgia, and a whole company
of settlers, except a woman, were killed near Chickamogga; and a
son of Tom Wallen was shot near his father's home, but made his
escape.
The settlers on the Blue Stone (now in Tazewell county, Va.),
being the principal sufferers by the Indian invasions, in August of
this year forwarded a petition to the Executive of Virginia, stating
their position on the frontiers and asking for protection against the
Indians, "from whose cruelties they had lately been great sutferers.
The settlement had become much weaker on account of these attacks
and was not able to protect itself longer without prompt aid from
the government. Upon the approach of danger, the inhabitants are
required to betake themselves and families to the forts, thus expos-
ing their effects and property to the marauders, and, being few in
number and scattered, they are unable to pursue and punish their
enemies. Unless some suitable and regular method for the defence
of the county be adopted at once, they should be obliged to abandon
their homes, and thus expose to the savages the more interior parts
of the country."
In answer tO' this petition, the Governor of Virginia directed the
county-lieutenant of Eussell county to call out forty men for the
protection of the frontiers of the county and three sets of spies, one
for the upper part of the county, one for the lower part of the county,
and another at Castle's Woods. The frontiers of Eussell county, at
Washmgto7i County, 1777-1870. 387
this time^, were 140 miles in length, extending from the Montgom-
ery county line to Martin's Station in Powell's Valley.
On the 17th day of J\Iarch, 1785, the Indians visited the house
ot John Wallen, about fifteen miles from Martin's Station, and
killed and scalped his wife, and a Mrs. Cox was shot at by three
Indians. On the 24th day of March two families were captured by
three Indians in New Garden, about twenty miles from Abingdon,
the two families consisting of fifteen persons.
In the fall of this year the smallpox broke out in the Indian
nation, spreading rapidly and causing so much distress that the
"Eaven of Chickamogga," the chief of the Chickamogga Indians,
addressed a peace talk to the Virginia Commissioner, which was as
follows :
"Brother, — I am now going to speak to you about powder. I have
in my towns six hundred good hunters, and we have very little pow-
der. I hope you will speak to my elder brother of Virginia, to take
pity on us, and send us as much as will make our fall's hunt. He
will hear you. We are very poor, but don't love to beg, which our
brother knows, as I have never asked him for anything else before.
I thank him however for all his past favors to the old towns. I
hope he will not refuse this favor I ask of him, I have taken Virginia
by the hand, and I do not want to turn my face another way, to
a strange people. The Spaniards have sent to me to come and speak
to them. I am not going, but some of my people have gone to hear
what they have to say. I am sitting still at home with my face
towards my elder brother of Virginia, hoping to hear from him soon.
I will not take of any strange people till I hear from him. Tell him
that when I took hold of your hand, I looked on it as if he had
been there. The hold is strong and lasting. I have with this talk
sent you a long string of white beads as a confirmation of what I
say. My friendship shall be as long as the beads remain white.
"A STEING."
Colonel Martin was disposed to listen to the professions of the
Indians and was making preparations to furnish them with the pow-
der which they requested, when a party of Indians appeared upon
the Clinch and chased a son of Frederick Fryly and ran him until
within sight of his father's house. Numerous signs ol Indians were
discovered down Sandy river, and the whole of the frontiers was
388 Southwest Virginia, 11^6-1786.
thrown into great disorder. In July of the year 1785, several mer-
chants from Baltimore opened a very large store at North Fork,
two miles below the Long Island of Holston, this being the first store
opened in that section of the country. At the election held in the
year 1785, for Washington county, Colonel William Kussell and
Andrew Kincannon, were elected to represent Washington county, in
the House of Delegates. One of the first measures proposed by Col-
onel Eussell, upon the assembling of the General Assembly in the
fall of that year, was a bill having for its purpose the division of
Washington county, which bill was favorably reported and after-
wards, on January 2, 1786, passed by the General Assembly of Vir-
ginia and approved by the Governor. By this bill it was provided
that, from and after the first day of May, 1786, the county of Wash-
ington shall be divided into two distinct counties, that is to say : all
that part of said county lying within a line to be run along Clinch
mountain to the Carolina line, thence with that line to the Cumber-
land mountain, and the extent of the country between the Cum-
berland mountain, Clinch mountain and the line of Montgomery
county, shall be one distinct county, and called and known by the
name of Russell, and the residue shall retain the name of Washing-
ton. The same bill directed the first court of said county to be held
at the house of William Roberson in Castle's Woods, on the second
Tuesday in May, 1786.
Pursuant to this Act of the Assembly, the first court of Russell
county assembled at the house of William Roberson, in Castle's
Woods, on May 9th, which court was composed of the following
gentlemen :
Alexander Barnett, Henry Smith,
David Ward, Andrew Cowan,
Samuel Ritchie, Thomas Carter,
Henry Dickenson, John Thompson,
and, subsequently within the same year, the following gentlemen
were commissioned and added to the court:
Charles Bickley, James Wharton,
Richard Price, John Frazer,
William Martin, Charles Cocke,
/Thristopher Cooper, John Tate,
John Bowen.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 389
At the same time the following officers qualified :
Sherifi^^ David Ward.
Deputy Sherifl:s, Eobert Craig, Charles Carter and John Carter.
Clerk County Court, Henry Dickenson.
Commissioners of the Revenue, Samuel Eitchie and Patrick Por-
ter.
County Surveyor, Henry Smith.
County Lieutenant, Alexander Barnett.
Colonel of Militia' Henry Smith.
Lieutenant- Colonel of Militia, Andrew Cowan.
Major, Charles Cocke.
Captains of Militia.
David Ward, William Thompson,
William Dorton, Charles Bickley,
Francis Browning, James Davidson.
Samuel Eitchie, Josiah Fugate,
William Martin.
Lieutenants of -Militia.
John Bowen, Charles Haj^s,
John Tate, James Osbourne,
Samuel Eoherson, l^lisha Farris,
Thomias Carter, Moses Skeggs,
John Van Bebber.
Ensigns of Militia.
Samuel Young, John Thompson,
Eobert Tate, Henry Hamblin,
Solomon Litton, William Byrd,
Benjamin Nichalson, Joseph Johnston,
William Ewing.
Coroner, Francis Browning.
The following lawyers qualified to practice in the court of Eussell
in the year .1786 :
Andrew Moore, Francis Preston,
Ephraim Dunlop, James Blair,
David Dunnan.
The coimty court proceeded to select a permanent location for the
courthouse, when Henry Dickenson, the clerk of the court, offered
to give to the county a tract of land at what has since been known
as Dickensonville, which offer the court accepted, and proceeded to
390 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
erect the necessary buildings thereon, and the court of Eussell
county asvsembled at Dickensonville or Russell's old courthouse on
the 20th day of September, 1787.
By the organization of this new county a great extent of coun-
try and many valuable citizens were lost to Washington county.
Information in regard to the history of Washington county sub-
sequent to the year 1786 is exceedingly hard to obtain, as the minute
books of the county court from the year 1786 to the year 1819 and
from the year 1821 until 1832 were destroyed along with the court-
house by the Federal troops in December, 1864.
Such history as I have been able to obtain for the period men-
tioned has been derived fro^m the records at Richmond and from an
examination of the files of the Holston Intelligencer and the Politi-
cal Prospect, newspapers published in Abingdon and covering the
period from 1810 to 1815.
Washingto7i County, 1777-1870. 391
CHAPTEE VIII.
EFFORT TO ESTABIJSH A NEW STATE.
Tn tlie month of Jamian% 1781, the General Assembly of Vir-
ginia passed a resolution expressing her willingness to cede her
northwest territor}'' to the Congress of the colonies, for the benellt
of the United Colonies, npon the follo-\ving condition, to-wit: that
the territory so ceded shall be laid out and formed into States con-
taining a suitable extent of territory, and shall not be less than
one hundred nor more than one hundred and fifty miles square or
as near thereto as circumstances will admit.' That the States so
formed shall be distinct republican States and be admitted mem-
bers of the Federal Union, having the same right of sovereignty,
freedom and independence as the other States.
Colonel Arthur Campbell, immediately upon his acquisition of
this information, with a vision that was almost prophetic, set about
to organize a new State and to include Washington county in the
same. He immediately proposed a scheme for obtaining the sense
of the inhabitants of tiie western country on the subject of the Vir-
ginia resolution and the resolves of the Congress upon the same sub-
ject, his scheme being as follows :
"First. That Selectmen or Deputies be chosen for the five south-
western counties of Virginia and the coimties of Washington and
Sullivan in ISTorth Carolina, to meet at Abingdon the third Wed-
nesday in April, 1782.
"Second. That in ordei" that the representation be adequate, let
the Deputies be in number in proportion to the number of farm-
ers above eighteen years of age, allowing one Deputy for every hun-
dred such farmers.
"Third. That the election be held at the respective Court Houses,
the third Tuesday in the month of March next, 1782, by the same
officers and under the same regulations as elections for delegates
are held.
"Fourth. That the business and power of the deputies when con-
vened be confined to the consideration of the late resolves of Con-
gress respecting the Western Country, and that they adopt such
measures as may be adjudged proper by a majority, for the interest
and safety of their constituents as members of the American Union.
392 Southwest Virginia, 17Ji6-17S6.
"Fifth. That the representation continue one year, in which time
the Deputies may adjourn from time to time, and to such places
witliin the ^^'estern Countries as may be found most convenient.
"The day appointed for the election is the second Tuesday in
March, 1783."
I am unable to state that the election was held at the time pro-
posed by Colonel Campbell, on the third Tuesday in March, 1782,
or that the iVssembly proposed by him met at Abingdon on the
third Wednesday in April, 1783, as therein proposed, but I can say
that an election was held and that an Assembly met at Abingdon
in this or tlie following year in the manner proposed by Colonel
Campbell. I am of the opinion that this election was held in 1782,
as proposed by Colonel Campbell, as four members of the Assembly
that met at Abingdon were citizens of Sullivan county, North Caro-
lina, and it is reasonable to suppose that liad the State of Frankland
been proposed or organized at the time of this election the Sullivan
county citizens would have united with that State.
The Assembly that met at Abingdon in the year 1783
adopted a memorial, which they addressed to the Congress of the
United States of America, and which was as follows :
MEMORIAL.
To the Honorable the Congress of the United States of America:
The memorial of the Freemen inhabitating the Country Westward
of the Alleghany or Appalachian mountain, and Southward of the
Ouasioto* Humbly sheweth :
That having been made acquainted with the several resolves and
other Acts of Congress, respecting Western Territory, and having
considered maturely the contents of the same, we are highly pleased
with that equal respect for the Liberties of the people, which seems
to influence the Councils of Congress. That nothing but a firm ad-
herence to the principles of the Confederation, and a sacred regard
to the rights of Mankind could produce the late Resolves for laying
off new, Independent States, thereby pointing out such effectual
measures, to prevent the encroachments of arbitrary power on the
Asylums of Freedom.
That we are happy to find so large a part of Territory already
ceded to the United States for National purposes, and trust that
*Tndian name for Cumberland mountain.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 393
every obstacle will speedily be removed for the completion of that
business by the individual States affected thereby. That we are too
much elated at the prospect before us not to wish that we may
speedily enjoy the advantages of such a Government as will be ex-
ercised over a convenient territory, not too small for the support of
authority, nor too large for the security of Freedom.
That our situation is such, inhabiting valleys intermixed with
and environed by vast wilds of barren and inaccessible mountains,
that the same compensation of latitude allotted to the new States
JTorthwest of the Ohio, might prevent us from ever being on an
equal footing with our neighbors, blessed with so many natural ad-
vantages, navigable waters, and a level, fertile country.
That the state boimded by a meridian line that will touch the
confluence of Little river, near Inglis' Ferry, thence down the Ka-
nawha to the Eonceverte or Green Briar river, thence Southwest to
latitude 37 Xorth, thence along the same to the meridian of the
rapids of the Ohio, South along the Meridian until it reaches the
Tenasee or Cherokee river, down the same, and eastwardly on that
parallel to the top of the Appalachian mountains, and along the
highest parts of the same, and the heights that divide the sources of
the waters that fall into the Mississippi from those that empty into
the Atlantic to the beginning. This, though not equal in quantity
of habitable lands with the adjoining States, yet may be sufficient
territory for a society that wishes to encourage industry and tem-
perance as cardinal virtues.
That in our present settlements we have maintained our ground
during the late perilous war, and frequently gave effectual aid to
our Brethren to the South and Westward; that we are first occu-
pants and aborigines of this country. Freemen, claiming natural
rights and the privileges of American citizens.
Our prayer therefore is, that your Honorable Body, with a gen-
erous regard to the Eights of ]\Iankind, would speedily erect the
aforesaid described Territory into a free and independent State,
subject to the Federal Bond, and likewise confirm and guarantee to
its inhabitants all their equitable rights and privileges acquired
under the laws of the States lately claiming this Territory; that
the disposition of the vacant lands be under the power of the Leg-
islature of the new State, in as full a manner as that exercised by
such of the Eastern States having unappropriated lands, with this
39i Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Eeservation, that the monies arising from the sale of vacant lands
shall be faithfully paid to the order of Congress, towards the pay-
ment of the National debt.
And yonr Memorialists shall ever pray, &c.
Approved and subscribed by us in behalf of ourselves and the
Freemen of our Eespective Districts, whoni we represent.
Charles Cummings, Chairman. •
John Jameson, John Campbell,
Alex'r "Wiley, Eobert Buchanan,
George Finley, William Tate,
Arthur Campbell, John Kinkead,
John Campbell, S'n'r, E. 0. Tliomas Woolsey,
John Davis, Eichard Brownlow,
Gilbert Christian, ]\Tatthew Willoughby,
David Looney, John Anderson,
John Adair.
At a subsequent meeting this Assembly addressed the Freemen of
Washington county on the subject of their public affairs, which ad-
dress is as follows :
"To the Freemen of Washington County:
"Your Deputies, after mature consideration, have agreed to ad-
dress you on the subject of your Public Affairs, well knowing that
there is only wanting an exact and candid examination into the
facts to know Avhether you have I)een well served or abused by your
Eepresentatives, whether Government has been wisely administered
and whether your rights and Lil)erties are secure. As members of
the Civil Society, you will acknowledge that there are duties of im-
portance and lasting obligation which must take place before indi-
vidual conveniences or private interest, but it must be granted that
in free Communities the laws are only obligatory when made con-
sonant witli the constitution or Original Compact; for it is the only
means of the surrender then made, the power therein given and the
right ariseth to^ Legislate at all. Hence it is evident that the power
of Legislators is in the nature of trusts to form Eegulations for the
good of the whole, agreeable to the powers delegated, and the de-
posite put into the General stock, and the end proposed is to' obtain
the greatest degree of happiness and safety, not for the few but
for the many. To attain these ends and these only, men are in-
duced to give up a portion of their natural Liberty and Property
Washington County, 1777-1870. 395
when they enter into society. From, this it is plain that Eulers may
exceed their trust, may invade the remaining portion of natural
libert}^ and property, which would be a usurpation, a breach of
solemn obligation and ultimately a conspiracy against the majesty
of the people, the only trea.^on that can be committed in a common-
wealth. A much admired writer on the side of Liberty begins
his work with the following remarkable sentence, which we tran-
scribe for your information, and entreat you to read and ponder
well :
"In every human Society there is an effort continually pending
to confer on one part the height of power and happiness, and re-
duce the other to extremes of weakness and misery. The intent of
good laws is to oppose these Efforts, and to diffuse their influence
universally and equally. But men generally abandon the care of
tlieir most important concerns to the uncertain prudence and discre-
tion of those whose interest it is to reject the best and wisest in-
structions, and it is not until they have been led into a thousand
mistakes in matters the most essential to their lives and Liberties,
and are weary of suffering, that they can be induced to apply a
remedy to the evils with which they are oppressed. It is then they
begin to conceive and acknowledge the most palpable truths, which
from their very simplicity commonly escape vulgar minds, in-
capable of analyzing objects, accustomed to receive impressions with-
out discretion, and to be determined rather by opinions of others,
than by the result of their own examination."
A few plain Questions 3'ou may honestly put to yourselves when
in retirement, or ^dien your heads are reclined on 3'our pillows ; For
what end hath the Almighty wrought out such a wonderful revo-
lution in the affairs of men as that of the Independence of America ?
What part ought I to act through the remaining part of my life, so
as to be most pleasing to my Creator and the most useful to So-
ciety? Whether are my head and heart so enlightened and in such a
frame as to attend to and receive the truth, whether it comes from
a person I dislike or not? Is not the duty we owe the succeeding
generation equal to that we owe the present; Several Mediums of
knowledge are open to all diligent inquirers. The productions of
the Printing Press, Literary Schools, and the meetings of: the peo-
ple to debate on public measures. The inhabitants of this county
have, as hitherto, been peculiarly circumstanced. They became
396 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
possessors of a Wilderness at a perilous Era: The greatest part of
their time since has been necessarily employed merely to provide
subsistence, coarse clothing and cheap dwellings, to defend their
families from the inclemency of the weather, no time or money to
spare to build elegant or convenient houses, to erect suitable places
for public worship, to found Seminaries for classical learning, to
promote the education of youth, that most indispensable of all obli-
gations to children. It is also a prior duty to any you owe the state
to provide food and raiment for your families. Plain fare and
coarse clothing you might be content with, if it was necessary to
part with all the superfluities to answer the real exigencies of the
State, and did you see your fellows in more favorable situation pur-
suing the same course and also could you be persuaded that a judi-
cious economy pervades all the disbursements of all the public
money, then, and not till then, ought you to part with the produce
of your Industry at the call of Eulers. It may be alleged by your
enemies that you do not mean to contribute anything to alleviate
the burthens of the Nation and support Government. This charge
will vanish on a fair enquiry into the various schemes of finance
and the present state of the Public Funds.
The following estimate of Taxes, and what has operated as taxes
in the Western Country, will prove that you have contributed some-
thing, probably your full share.
Treasury and pre-emption warrants, 16,000,000 pounds
Taxes collected in the years 1778, '79, '80, '81, . 180,000 pounds
Bills lost, sunk or funded, 5,000,000 pounds
Paper money, 21,130,000 pounds
Cash paid commissioners in hard money reduced, $10,000
Composition money sent in with the plots, 70,000
One-sixth of the surveyor's fees, 5,000
Eegisters' fees prior to 1784, 30,000
Eegisters' fees prior to 1784, 3,000
Eegisters' fees prior to 1785, 10,000
Additional tax of 5s. per hundred on land, 25,000
Duty on salt will cost the western consumption 6s. per
bushel, 1.500
Duties on imports on foreign goods and enumerated articles 2,500
Loyal Company's claim on W. & M. counties, 8,000
Washington County, 1777-1870. 397
Taxes on &c., may produce annually, 2,000
Assessment subsequent to 1781, an enormous simi that it
is impracticable, if not unjust, to collect, 172,000
Should the Legislature abolish assessment, and the above not be
suiEcient, you miglit endure taxing a few luxurious articles and
some vices, that woidd increase the sum, and make it equal to your
just proportion of ex[)enditures.
If your eastern nciglibois were generous, they would make some
allowance for the great losses sustained by the depredations of the
Indians, and for the many valuable lives lost to keep them safe.
The appropriations of your public money ought also to be a subject
of serious enquiry, for if at any tiine it should be applied to the
purposes of venality and corruption, you would then be feeding your
destroyers, and enable them to make further invasions on your
remaining rights and liberties, until you would have left nothing
worth contending for, and yon and your posterity would be obliged
to stoop to an abject vassalage.
"All is not lost yet, therefore beware in the future of the objec-
tion of either weak or interested men who would persuade you to
a passive conduct under all the Measures of Government. Your
Eulers, as well as those of other nations, are only fallible men.
When they act well, honor and applaud, when wickedly, impeach
and punish them. Disregard their impotent threats and ridicu-
lous fallacies, and let them know that th^ little selfish cry of an
individual is not to be heard when the loud sounds of the peo-
ples' are publishing their wrongs.
'•'Signed by order,
"CHAELES CUMMINGS, Ch'm."
A copy.
This document is thus endorsed by the Governor:
"Memo. James Montgomery put this paper into my hands, and
can prove its authenticity, and that Arthur Campbell personally
explained, enforced and inculcated its contents on the people, par-
ticularly the State of Taxes p'd by that conntry."
Colonel Arthur Campbell and a large majority of the citizens of
Washington county, from this time forward, made every possible
effort to secure the approval of th© Congress of the United States
of their views in regard to the formation of a new State, and their
398 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
views seemed to permeate and meet with the approval of all the
citizens, with but few exceptions, living on the western waters.
In the month of June, 1784, the General Assembly of North
Carolina passed an Act ceding to the Congress of the United States
all her western lands, including the counties of Sullivan, Washing-
ton, Greene and Davidson, now within the present limits of the
State of Tennessee, and at the same session of the Xorth Carolina
Assembly, the Western Land Office was closed.
Immediately upon the adjournment of the jSTorth Carolina
Assembly, the four delegates from the western counties returned
to their homes and gave intelligence to the people of the proceed-
ings of the General Assembly of North Carolina, whereupon, it was
proposed that the people shoukl elect two representatives in each
captain's company in the counties of Washington, Sullivan and
Greene, as committeemen to deliberate upon tbe state of public
affairs and to recommend a plan of action suited to the occasion.
These committees met and recommended the election of delegates
from the several counties, to meet in convention at Jonesboro, with
j'Ower to adopt such measures as they thought necessary.
The delegates were elected and assembled at Jonesboro on
August 23, 1784, and elected the following officers: President,
John Sevier; Secretary, Landon Carter.
The convention immediately proceeded to appoint a committee
to take into consideration the state of public affairs and the ces-
sion to Congress b}^ North Carolina of her western territory.
This committee, after a resolution had been offered by a member
declaring the three western counties independent of North Caro-
lina, unanimously adopted the following report, which was submit-
ted to the convention:
EEPORT.
"Your committee are of opinion and judge it expedient, that the
counties of Washington, Sullivan and Greene, which the Cession
Bill particularly respects, form themselves into an association and
combine themselves together, in order to support the present laws
of North Carolina, which may not be incompatible with the modes
and forms of laying off a new State. It is the opinion of your
committee that we have a just and undeniable right to petition to
Congress to a(;cept the cession made by North Carolina, and for
that body to countenance us in forming O'Urselves into a separate
Washington County, 1777-1870. 399
government, and either to frame a permanent or temporary con-
stitution, agreeably to a resolve of Congress in such case made and
provided, as nearly as circumstances will permit. We have a right
to keep and hold a convention from time to time, by meeting and
convening at such place or places as the said convention shall
adjovirn to. When any contiguous part of Virginia shall make
application to join this association, after they are legally permitted,
either by the State of Virginia or other power having cognizance
thereof, it is our opinion that they be received and enjoy the same
privilege that we do, or shall enjoy. This convention has a right
to adopt and prescribe such regulations as the particular exigencies
of the times and the public good may require; that one or more
persons ought to be sent to represent our situation in the Congress
of the United States and this convention has just right and autho-
rity to prescribe a regular mode for his support."
This report was received by the convention and adopted, and
the convention, by a vote of 28 to 15, declared in favor of forming
a separate and distinct State at this time, and appointed Messrs.
Hardin and Cocke to draw up articles of association, which they
did and which articles were approved by the convention. Pursuant
to tlie Articles of Association, the first members of the General
Assembly of the State of Franklin were chosen, and assembled at
Jonesboro in the month of March, 1785, at which time officers were
elected and laws adopted for the government of the State of Frank-
land. The officers elected were as follows:
Governor, John Sevier.
Secretary of State, Landon Carter.
Treasurer, William Cage.
Surveyor-General, Stockly Donaldson.
Brigadier-Generals, Daniel Kennedy and William Cocke.
Council of State, William Cocke, Landon Carter, Francis A.
Ramsay, David Campbell, Daniel Kennedy and Colonel Taylor.
Member of Congress, General William Cocke.
The government as thus organized, proceeded in an orderly way
to administer the affairs of the people.
There can be but little question, that Colonel Arthur Campbell,
the author of the idea of a new State, played a leading part in the
organization of the State of Frankland. During the years 1783-
1784, he was constantly engaged in organizing this new govern-
400 Suuthivest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
ment and enlisting the sympathies of the people ol Washington and
Montgomery counties in behalf of the same. He drew i;p a Decla-
ration of Eights and a Constitution for the new government, and
while I am unable to obtain a copy of the Constitution that he
proposed for the new State, still I am able to give the Declaration
of Eights prepared by him, which is as follows :
A DECLAEATION OF EIGHTS.
1st. That all political power is vested in and derived from the
oeople only.
2nd. That the people of this State ought to have the sole and
>xclusive right of regulating the internal government and police
thereof.
3d. That no man, or set of men, are entitled to exclusive or
separate emoluments or privileges from the community but in con-
sideration of public services.
4th. That the legislative, executive and supreme judicial powers
of government ought to be forever separate and distinct from each
other.
5th. That all powers of suspending laws, or the execution of
laws, by any authority, without the consent of the representatives
of the people, are injurious to their right and ought not to be
exercised.
' 6th. That election of members to serve as representatives in
General Assembly ought to be free.
7th. That in all criminal prosecutions, every man has a right
to be informed of the accusation against him and to confront the
accusers and witnesses with other testimony, and shall not be com-
pelled to give evidence against himself.
8th. That no freeman shall be put to answer any criminal
charge but by indictment or impeachment.
9th. That no freeman shall be convicted of any crime but by
the unanimous verdict of a jury of good and lawful men in open
court, ns heretofore used.
101 h. 'J'liat excessive bail should not be required, nor excessive
fines imposed, nor cruel nor unusual punishments inflicted.
11th. That general warrants, whereby an officer or a messenger
may be commanded to search suspected places, without evidence
of the fact committed, or to seize any person or persons not named,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 401
whose offences are not particularly described and supported by evi-
dence, are dangerous to liberty and ought not to be granted.
12th. That no freeman ought to be taken, imprisoned or dis-
seized of his freehold, liberties or privileges, or outlawed or exiled,
or in any manner destroyed or deprived of his life, liberty or prop-
erty, but by the law of the land.
13th. That every freeman restrained of his liberty, is entitled to
a remedy, to enquire into the lawfulness thereof, and to remove
the same, if unlawful ; and that such remedy ought not to be denied
or delayed.
14th. That in all controversies at law, respecting property, the
ancient mode of trial by jury is one of the best securities of the
rights of the people and ought to remain sacred and inviolable.
15th. That the freedom of the press is one of the great bul-
warks of liberty, and therefore ought never to be restrained.
16th. That the people of this State ought not to be taxed, or
made subject to payment of any impost or duty, without the con-
sent of themselves or their representatives in General Assembly
freely given.
17th. That the people have a right to bear arms for the defence
of the State ; and as standing armies in time of peace are dangermis
to liberty, they ought not to be kept up; and that the military
should be kept under strict subordination to, and governed by, the
civil power.
18th. That the people have a right to assembly together, to
consult for their common good, to instruct their representatives,
and to apply to the Legislature for redress of grievances.
19th. That all men have a natural and unalienable right to
worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their own con-
sciences.
20th. That for redress of grievances and for amending and
strengthening the laws, elections ought to be often held.
21st. That a frequent recurrence to fundamental principles is
absolutely necessary to preserve the blessings of liberty.
22d. That no hereditary emoluments, privileges or honors
ought to be granted or conferred in this State.
23d. That perpetuities and monopolies are contrary to the
genius of a free State and ought not to be allowed.
24th. That retrospective laws punishing acts committed before
402 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
the existence of such laws, and by them only declared criminal, are
oppressive, imjiist and incoinpatible with liberty; therefore no ex
post facto law ought to be made,"
James Montgomery, when he accepted the commission of the
Governor as sheriff of Washington county and gave security for the
collection of the taxes due for the three preceding years, incurred
the displeasure of Colonel Campbell and the majority of the citi-
zens of the county, and, in turn, he became the bitter enemy of
Colonel Campbell.
The people had been advised and expected that they would be
released from the payment of their taxes for the preceding years,
upon the organization of the new State, which they confidently
believed would take place. Early in the year 1785, James Mont-
gomery, William Edmiston, Arthur Bowen, James Kincannon,
Samuel Edmiston and James Thompson addressed the following
communication to the Governor of Virginia, preferring charges
of majpractices and misconduct, in his office, as justice of the
peace, against Arthur Camjabell.
"Sir: — Viewing with concern the present situation of affairs in
this country, through attempts of ambitious men, thereby intend-
ing to' incense the good people thereof against the laws of the State
and proceedings of government requisite thereto, finally tO' effect a
new State in this quarter of the country, we cannot any longer
remain tacit beholders of the evils already generating among us,
without tlie most alarmed sensations, which we think the ties of
humanity and obligations to our country lead us to disclose.
Most secret plans have been laid to delude the people, holding out
to them the idea of oppressive acts imposed by the General Assem-
bly, intended to burthen them unjustly with a weight of taxes.
Small committees were contrived and convened by Colonel Arthur
Campl>ell, the leader of this disorder, as early as February and
March last, under pretext of seeking redress of grievances in behalf
of the county the present year, and decrying the laws in general of
the last Assembly. !N"otwithstanding every opposition made to his
measures, he continued to convene his committees, and, not long
after, in one of his committees at Major Dysart's disclosed his plan
of representation to Congress, thereby aiming to fix a boundary to
include a part of Virginia in the Frankland State.
It is also notoriously known that Colonel Campbell did, in a con-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 403
vention of the North Carolina people, publicly propose to separate
himself with the citizens of Washington and Montgomery in Vir-
ginia, and joining them declare themselves immediately independ-
ent of the States of Virginia and North Carolina, and moreover,
stand in the front of the battle between these people and Virginia
when necessary. His declaration to the people of this county at the
March court, to elect no delegates to the Greneral x^ssembly this
year, together with his late opposition, at the July court, to the
proclamation issued by your Excellency in Council the 10th of
June last, may be sufficient to satisfy your Excellency and Hon-
orable Council that the mischievous spirit prevailing here in oppo-
sition to the present collection and other proceedings of govern-
ment, may have arisen from the licentious spirit of Colonel Camp-
bell, conveyed to them through his artful insinuations daily since
last court, exercised by public meetings in this county, intended to
overset the designs of the Executive in the present arrangement of
the militia; and there is reason to believe he is now aiming to
effect associations to oppose the collection when attempted to be
made. The charges herein contained can undoubtedly be supported
by General Russell, Captain Andrew Kincannon, Captain Henry
Smith and Captain William Cocke, of the Frankland settlement.
We rest the charges herein contained for the discussion and ulti-
mate decision of your Excellency and the Honorable Council, that
if necessary he may be cited to answer the charges against him."
When the attention of Governor Henry was called to the situation
of affairs in this county, he removed the suspension of the opera-
tion of the militia law adopted by the Assembly at its session in
the year 1784, and removed from office Colonel Arthur Campbell,
the county lieutenant of this county, and such of the field officers,
in the militia of this county, as were active partizans of the new
State. Colonel William Russell was commissioned a brigadier-
general of militia with a full quota of officers who were opposed to
the formation of the new State. By this act, the Governor remO'Ved
from office many of the men who had served at King's mountain,
and such was the dissatisfaction produced by this action, that a
number of the leading citizens of the county who had not taken
part in the previous disturbances, addressed the following petition
to the Governor and Council of the State :
404 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
To His Excellency, Patrick Henry, Esquire, Governor of the Com-
monwealth of Virginia, and the Honorable Council of State:
The petition of simdiy freemen whose names are thereunto sul)-
scribed humbly sheweth, that being pleased with the name and
wishing to glory in the reality of being citizens of a Commonwealth,
it is with infinite concern that we are constrained to address your
Excellency on a subject tliat we apprehend will eventually endanger
our liberties — we mean the adoption of the new militia law.
That we believe the Constitution is imperfect in some particulars;
but whilst we retain it as an acknowledged plan, springing from a
higher source than the ordinary Legislature, we ought to consider
it, until altered by the same authorities, as the basis of the laws and
all legitimate government, and besides our allegiance points out
to us as a duty, to maintain it inviolate, that former examples both
ancient and modern, our own experience and the reason of things
tell us that if an infraction is once made, and that by a delegated
powder, then there will be no right, however sacred, that is possessed
by the citizens, but may be usurped, and our government ere long
terminate in anarchy or despotism, those mournful calamities that
too soon befall the human race.
To avert such direful events, to recur to first principles and to
reinstate our liberties in their pristine vigor, we are encouraged to
approach, with freedom and truth, a patriotic Chief Magistrate,
and an enlightened Council, humbly praying that the powers with
which your Honorable Board are invested may be now exercised by
refusing to execute the aforesaid Act as being unconstitutional and
oppressive; or, if need be, assemble the Legislature, at an earlier
period than it stands adjourned to, that we may have an opportu-
nity to seek redress from a legal tribunal. And your petitioners
shall pray:
Andrew Willoughby, Jr., James Logan,
James , Eobert Montgomery,
James Craig, Joseph Acklin,
Charles Cummings, George Finley,
Era. Allison, Eobert Campbell,
Thomas Cummings, Samuel x\cklin,
John Trousdale, Samuel Houston,
James Dunlop. John Preston,
John Campbell, James Cummings,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 405
John Davis, David Kinkead,
James Moore, Andrew Davison,
Gilbert Watson, Thomas Osburn,
John Christian, Eobert Johnston,
Robert Craig, N"ath. Willoughby,
Michael Higgins, David Watson,
Samuel Davis, William Bradley,
John Cummings, William Craig and others.
The Governor being slow to act upon the charges preferred by
James Montgomery and others against Colonel Arthur Campbell,
in the sununer ol the year 1785, William Edmiston, James Kin-
cannon, Samuel Edmiston, James Thompson and Arthur Bowen'
addressed the following letter to the Governor of A^irginia, prefer-
ring additional charges against Colonel Campbell:
"Please Your Excellency and the Honorable Council :
"Sir, — A complaint being exhibited during the course of last
summer against Colonel Arthur Campbell for mal-conduct, con-
trary to the most sacred ties of government, as Avell under his late
county lieutenancy as judge of the court of Washington, in which
he continues to act, we have consequently thereto, been honored by
advice from our Ijieutenant-Governor, that the charges would be
attended to by the Executive which we still hope will meet your
patronage in due season and the offender in your wisdom cited
before a proper trilmnal to answer the charges against him. Bely-
ing that the Executive will not suffer such atrocious insidt to the
Commonwealth of Virginia to pass unnoticed, we think it neces-
sary to add fresh matter of complaint against Colonel Campbell
that with the former now in your possession, his wicked and per-
severing conduct may be more clearly explained to your Honorable
Board. When the decision of the Executive made it necessary to
arrange the militia of Washington county under the law of eighty-
four, and the Governor's proclamation Avas issued for that purpose,
which being accompanied witb the field officers' commissions were
laid before Washington court, Colonel Campbell on the bench
objected to the proclamation and power of the Executive, under
the law, and quitting the bench addressed himself to the court, tell-
ing them that the militia law was arbitrary, tyrannical and oppres-
sive; and after condemning the last Assembly for enacting the law,
said that the power of enforcing the law was in the court, not in
406 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
the Executive, and that the court should by no means suffer the
field officers to qualify ; he also hoped that the court and people oi
the county would pay no obedience to the law or proclamation.
Colonel Campbell finding some opposition to his measures by the
court, alleged that the Executive having suspended the operations
of the law till January, 1786, he had not a right to take off that
suspension, by M'hich time, he made no doubt, the law would be
repealed; and after finding some of the court opposed to his pro-
positions, plead, (notwithstanding the danger of the frontiers)
that the court should not suffer the field officers to qualify at that
time. His constant endeavors to prejudice the citizens of this
county ever since against the law, will appear from a petition to
the Assembly which he promoted."
And at the same time James Montgomery, who was a member
of the Legislature from Washington county, preferred the follow-
ing charges against Colonel Campbell:
"1st. That he advised persons chargeable with pulilic taxes to
refuse payment thereof.
2d. That he advised freeholders against electing members to the
General Assembly.
3d. That he attempted by various means, openly and secretly, to
induce the inhabitants of Washington county to separate from this
Commonwealth.
4th. That he left the bench on a day when the court was sitting
and attempted to persuade the court that no regard ought to be
paid to the militia law, or the Governor's proclamation for enforc-
ing it."
The Governor and Council, upon consideration of said charges,
directed that tbe first Monday in April, 1786, be set apart for
enquiring into, the charges aforesaid, at the Council chamber in
the city of l^ichmond, and that the said Arthur Campbell have
notice of such intended inquiry and be furnished with a copy of the
charges exhibited against him on or before the first day of February
next, and that the parties be at liberty from that period to the 15th
day of March next, to take depositions of witnesses, respecting the
charges aforesaid, giving ten days' previous notice of the time and
place of taking the same, and that when taken they be transmitted
to His Excellency the Governor, under the hand and seal of the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 407
magistrate or magistrates who attended the taking of such deposi-
tions.
In answer to Governor Henry's proclamation enfoi'cing the mili-
tia law, Colonel Arthur Campbell, who had been particularly named
therein, addressed the following letter to the Governor :
"Sir, — After having been honored lately with the receipt of sev-
eral of your Excellency's letters, particularly that of the 17tli of
May last, and the several communications made in consequence of
them, particularly my letter of the 13th of June, the principal offi-
cers and the Whig interest in this county seemed to rest satisfied
that an amicable and enlightened administration would pave the
way to the Legislature and to Congress for the efficient and per-
manent redress of the principal, and in some cases the almost
intolerable grievances of the western inliabitants. Birt. v^'fluile
secure in this confidence, we have to lament that the voice of
calumny and faction has reached the seat of supreme rule, and
that, without a constitutional enquiry, without a fair hearing, it
has been in some degree listened to, and had effect. It is hard to
defend when it is not known what we are charged with, and at
all times who can disarm private pique, or be able to withstand
malice and envy without feeling some smart. But political fury,
engendered by Tory principles, knows no bounds and is without
a parallel. Bernard and Hutchison have exhibited to Governors
and the wotM, examples that ought to teach wisdom to this and
succeeding generations. We are told (but it is only from report)
that we have offended government on account of our sentiments
being favorable to a new State, and our looking forward for a sep-
aration. If such a disposition is criminal, I confess there are not
a few in this county to whom guilt may be imputed, and to many
respectable characters in other counties on the western waters. If
we wish for a separation it is on account of grievances that daily
become more and more intolerable, it is from a hope that another
mode of governing will make us more useful than we are now to the
general confederacy, or ever can be whilst so connected. But why
can blame fall on us, when our aim is to conduct measures in an
orderly manner, and strictly consistent with the Constitution.
Surely men who have bound themselves by every holy tie to sup-
port republican principles, cannot on a dispassionate consideration
blame us. Our want of experience and knowledge may be a plea
408 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
against ns. We deplore our situation and circumstances on that
account,, but at the same tiiuo fii'inly believe that our advances to
knowledge will still continue ^\o\\\ jicrhaps verge towards ignorance
and barbarism, without the benefit of local independent institutions.
But, sir, why may we not take courage and say we are right when
adverting to onr omti constitution, to the ditTerent Acts of Con-
gress, that of different legislatures, the opinion of the first states-
men in America, among whom we can number an illustrious com-
mander, a great lawyer and judge in this State, and a Governor of
Virginia himself?
All that I have to ask, and it is all that I may ever crave, is
that your Excellency may not, from invidious information, form
such rash measures, so urge matters, at an untimely day to extremi-
ties, which only might gratify an angry individual, but would, by
no means, promote the interest and peace of the Commonwealth,
or its lionor and dignity.
I am, sir, with res}>cct, your most obedient servant,
AKTHUE CAMPBELL.
The agitation continued until the meeting of the General Assem-
bly of Virginia, on October, 1185, at which time, the Grovemor
transmitted to the General Assembly a message in regard to the
action taken l)y the people of this portion of Virginia, praying the
establishment of an independent State.
Accompanying the message was the memorial adopted by the
Assembly that met at Abingdon, addressed to the Congress of the
United States as heretofore given. The message of the Governor
to the General Assembly was as follows :
MESS AGE. OF GOVERNOR PATRICK HENRY.
"I transmit herewith a letter from the Honorable Mr. Hardy,
covering a memorial to Congress of sundry inhabitants of Washing-
ton county, praying the establishment of an independent State, to
be bounded as is therein expressed. The proposed limits include
a vast extent of country, in whicli we have numerous and very
I'espectable settlements, which in their growth will form an inval-
uable barrier between this country and those, who, in the course
of events, may oecujiy the vast places westward of the mountains,
some of whom have views incompatible with our safety. Already
the militia of that part of the State is the most respectable we have,
and by their means it is that the neighboring Indians are awed
Washington County, 1777-1870. 409
into professions of friendship. But a circumstance has lately hap-
pened, which renders the possession of the territory at the present
time indispensable to the peace and safety of Virginia; I mean the
assumption of sovereign power by the western inhabitants of North
Carolina. If the people who, without consulting their own safety
or any other authority known in the American Constitution, have
assumed government, and Avhile unallied to us and under no
engagements to pursue the objects of the Federal government, shall
be strengthened by the accession of so great a part of our country,
consequences fatal to our repose will probably follow. It is to be
observed that the settlements of this new society stretch into a
great extent in contact with ours in Washington county, and there-
by expose our citizens to the contagion of the example which bids
fair to destroy the peace of North Carolina. In this state of things
it is that variety of information has come to me stating that several
persons, but especially Colonel Arthur Campbell, have used their
utmost endeavors, and with some success, to persuade the citizens
in that quarter to break O'ff from this Commonwealth, and attach
themselves to the newly-assumed government, or to erect one dis-
tinct from it. And to effect this purpose the equality and authority
of the laws have been arraigned, the collection of the taxes impeded,
and our national character impeached. If this most important part
of our territory be lopped off, we loose that barrier for which our
people have long and often fought; that nursery of soldiers, from
which future armies may be levied, and through which it will be
almost impossible for our enemies to penetrate. We shall aggran-
dize the new State, whose connections, views and designs, we know
not : shall cease to be formidable to our savage neighbors, or respect-
able to our western settlements, at present or in the future.
Whilst these and many other matters were contemplated by the
Executive, it is natural to suppose, the attempt at separation was
discouraged by every lawful means, the chief of which was dis-
placing such of the field officers of the militia in Washington
county as were active partizans for separation, in order to prevent
the weight of office being put in the scale against Virginia. To
this end a proclamation was issued, declaring the militia laws of
the last session in force in that county," and appointments were
made agreeable to it.
I hope to be excused for expressing a wish that the Assembly, in
410 Southwest Virginia, 171,6-1186.
deliberating on this affair, will prefer lenient measures in order
to restrain our erring citizens. Their taxes have run into three
years and thereby gro\m to an amount beyond the ability of many
to discharge; while the system of our trade has been such, as to
render their agriculture Tinproductive of money. And I cannot but
suppose that if even the warmest supporters of separation had seen
the mischievous consequences, they would have retraced and recon-
sidered that intemperance in their OAvn proceedings, which oppo-
sition in sentiment is too apt to produce.
The limits proposed for the new government of Frankland, by
Colonel Arthur Campbell and the people of Virginia who aimed at
a separation from this State, were expressed in the form of a con-
stitution which Colonel Campbell drew up for public examination,
and were these : Beginning at a point on the top of the Alleghany
or Appalachian mountains, so as that a line drawn due north from
thence will touch the bank of .the New river, otherwise called
Kenawha, at the confluence of Little river, which is about one
mile above Inglis' ferry, doM^i the said river Kenawha to the
mouth of the Eoncevcrt, or Greenbrier river, a direct line thence to
the summit of Laurel mountain, and along the highest part of the
'sr.me to the same point where it is intersected by the parallel of
37° north latitude; Avest along that latitude to a point where it is
met by a meridian line that passes through the lower part of the
river Ohio ; south along the meridian to the Elk river, a branch of
the Tennessee ; down said river to its mouth, and down the Ten-
nessee to the most southwardly part or bend of said river; a direct
line from thence to that branch of the Mobile, called Tombigbee;
down said river Tombigbee to its junction with the Coosawattee
river, to the mouth of that branch of it called the Hightower;
thence south to the top of the x\ppalachian mountain, or the highest
land that divided the sources of the eastern from the western wat-
ers ; northwardly along the middle of said heights, and the top of
the Appalachian mountain, to the beginning. It was stated
that the inhabitants within these limits agree with each other
to form themselves into a free, sovereign and independent
body politic or State, by the name of the Commonwealth
of Frankland. The laws of the Legislature were to be enacted by
the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Frankland ; and all
the laws and ordinances which had been before adopted, used and
Washington County, 1777-1870. 411
approved in the different parts of this State, whilst under the juris-
diction of Virginia and North Carolina shall still remain the rule
of decision in all cases for the respective limits for which they were
formerly adopted,, and shall continue in full force until altered-
or repealed by the Legislature; such parts only excepted, as are
repugnant to the rights and liberties contained in this Constitution,
or those of the said respective States."
As heretofore stated, early in the year 1785 the Governor
removed Colonel Arthur Campbell, county lieutenant of Washing-
ton county and all the militia ofhcers who advocated a new State,
and commissioned General Eussell as brigadier-general of militia
and a number of other gentlemen who Avere opposed to the forma-
tion of a new State, as militia officers in Washington county; but
when Colonel Eussell and the other gentlemen holding commis-
sions under the Governor appeared before the court and offered to
qualify as required by law. Colonel Campbell, who was the pre-
siding officer of the court, demanded of Colonel Eussell and his
friends to know by what authority they sought toi qualify, when
the commissions were produced, and Colonel Campbell, having
read the commissions, left the bench and declared that he would
not tamely submit to the orders of the Governor, and immediately
proceeded to address the court, declaring the militia law to be in
the highest degree oppressive and tyrannical, and that the Gover-
nor, having suspended the law until January, 1786, had no right
to enforce it at this time. He pronounced the Governor's proclama-
tion illegal, declaring the Governor and Coimcil had exceeded their
power, and that they had no right to enforce the militia law at
tliat time, nnd he assured the court that the power to enforce law
was in them and not in the Executive; and, notwithstanding the
earnest protest of Colonel Eussell, the court declined to permit
the Governor's appointees to qualify.
The General Assembly convened on the 3d day of October. 1785,
and the first act passed by the Assembly was to amend the mil it in
law enacted at the session in 1784, and to provide that the officers
of the militia, who were displaced and removed from office by vir-
tue of said act, are hereby reinstated and shall take precedency of
rank agreeably to dates of the commissions they severally held prior
to the passage of said Act.
And this same Assembly passed several Acts having for their
412 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
object the removal of the grievances complained of by Colonel
Campbell and his followers in Washington county.
By the Act of the Assembly above given, Colonel Campbell, once
again, prevailed against his enemies and continued to discharge
the duties of county lieutenant of Washington county for many
years.
The measures adopted by the Legislature were exceedingly mod-
erate and conciliatory, and, as a result, all active opposition to the
authority of the Virginia government ceased.
The idea of forming a new government out of the western terri-
tory originated with Colonel Arthur Campbell and was adopted by
the citizens of North Carolina at his suggestion. He was co^m-
pelled to submit to the authority of the State of Virginia some
time previous to the dissolution of the State of Frankland in
North Carolina, because of the circumstances surrounding the two
peoples. Colonel Campbell and his Virginia followei-s lived in
that portion of the Commonwealth of Virginia which the State
had never agreed to cede to the Continental Congress, and the sov-
ereignty ol which the Commonwealth, at no time, was willing
to surrender to any other power, while the situation in North
Carolina was entirely different. The General Assembly of that
State had ceded all that portion of her territory embraced in the
State of Frankland to the Congress of the United States, and the
citizens of North Carolina felt but little interest in the matter, and
as a result of this condition the Virginia seceders were promptly
suppressed, while those in North Carolina were for some time per-
mitted to pursue the even tenor of their way.
""JMie prosecution of Colonel Campbell continued with unabated
vigor, and numerous depositions were taken to sustain the charges
made against him. The deposition of Colonel William TJussell,
the chief prosecutor in the case, was as follows :
"General William Eussell, deposeth and saith : On the 12th
day of January, 17S5, at the house of William Colly in Wash-
ington county, your deponent attended a meeting of a number of
inhabitants of said county. The people assembled. Colonel Camp-
bell addressed them, saying he had called them together to explain
to them the enormous sum of money paid by the people of this
county to the State of Virginia, which he said repeatedly amounted
to nearly two million more than was due from this county to' the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 413
government. He said he was exceedingly alarmed to find that taxes
were to be demanded of the peoj^le of Washington that year, then
reduced to absolute certainty, the sheriff having given security for
the collection. Your deponent well remembers Colonel Campbell
told the people that sum of money operated upon them as a tax,
and that the people ought to pay no tax till that sum was accounted
for by the government to the people here. Your deponent then told
the people that Colonel Campbell's deductions were drawn from
erroneous calculations by the lump, intended to mislead and incense
them against government. Your deponent then urged the people
to pay half the tax then called for, and furtlier told the people their
compliance with that in future might perhaps favor them to pro-
cure an abatement, if not a final remittance, of the arrears by our
Af;sembly. Colonel Campbell immediately replied, truly the gen-
tleman preaches up to you passive obedience and non-resistance.
Yoiir deponent then informed the people the sheriff would take
l3eof cattle for the collection, to make it easy for those who could
not raise money to pay their tax. Colonel Campbell instantly
replied, he liked such men who would take up arms rather than
submit to so unjust a tax. Colonel Campbell then proposed that
all for his measure should choose a committee, and with these
retired aside. Your deponent attended a meeting at Major Dysart's
on the 14th of the same instant, when Colonel Campbell addressed
the people then present with the same explanation of statements he
had offered on the 12th at William Colly's, urging that the people
of this county had paid two millions money more than their just
quota, and alleged it was unjust for us to pay tax till that was
accounted for. Your deponent attended one other meeting at Sink-
ing Spring Meeting House, on the 15th of the same instant, being
Washington February court day, and yonr deponent supposetli
nearly three hundred people were present at said meeting. Colonel
Campbell addressed them as before in opposition to the collection of
the taxes, and again alleged this county had paid nearly two mil-
lions over and above what ought to be paid to government, and
recommended the people ought to pay no tax until that was settled
by the State. Colonel Campbell said he was surprised to find in
what manner measures had been taken to precipitate the collection
by the sheriff and his sureties. Colonel Campbell observed, we had
but lately escaped from British tyranny and he feared it was likely
414 Southwest Virginia^ 174G-1786.
to take place in our own State. He exclaimed generally against the
laAvs passed by the General Assembly in 1784, as tyrannical and
oppressive. Your deponent once more observed to the people that
Colonel Campbell's inferences led them to secede from government;
that his insinuations and refusal to pay taxes led to rebellion, in
which predicament, if led by him, we must either subjugate Vir-
ginia, or Virginia would reduce us.
At July Washington court, 1T85, the Grovernor's proclamation
being read near the courthouse door, by the sheriff intended to
enforce the militia law of 1784, your deponent and field officers, as
by a late appointment by the Governor, went before the court, and
applied to be qualified to their commissions. Colonel Campbell,
then on the bench and judge of the court, he enquired to know what
co'mmission, of which your deponent informed him, and handed
him the Governor's proclamation ; lie having read it, or part of it,
took his hat, and lca^'^ng the bench, declared he would not tamely
submit to it so.
Colonel Cariipbell then addressed the court, and said tha{ i'lo
Governor and Council had exceeded their power. He told the court
the Governor's proclamation was not laAv. Your deponent observed
to the court it was a power sufficient to enforce a law. Colonel
Campbell then observed the militia law was in the highest degree
oppressive and tyrannical, and the Executive having suspended the
law till Januar}', 1786, had no right to enforce it at that time, and
he assured the court the ])owcr to infoice that law or not, was in
them, and not in the Executive.
It appeared to your deponent, that Colonel Arthur Campbell,
supposing that he Avould be overruled by the court in his proposi-
tion, then proposed to the court to postpone the qualification of the
officers till the August court. Your deponent then observed to
the court the risk of the frontier woidd not admit of that delay,
as depredations had been committed not long before on our fron-
tiers by the savages.
Colonel Campbell then replied that avus not of inucli consequence,
and further your deponent saith not.
Depositions pro and con were taken in tbis ease, at the town
house, on March G, 178G, at the house of Captain Tliomas Price on
Clinch, on the 10th day of March, and at Henry Herkleroads, on
the 14th of said month. The following witnesses were examined
Washington County, 1777-1870. 415
against Colonel Campbell : Joseph Cole, Andrew Kincannon,
Thomas Berry, James Thompson, Charles Bowen, Arthur Bowen,
William Crabtree, Andrew Cowan, George Clark, James Kincan-
non and Eobert Preston. And the following witnesses were sworn
in behalf of Colonel Campbell: John Latham, Benjamin Sharp,
James Dysart, Elisha Dnngan, Greorge Finley, Alex. Breckinridge,
James Snodgrass, John Kinkead, Joseph Black and Eobert Craig.
These depositions were taken before David Ward, Andrew Cowan,
John Latham, John Kinkead, John Lowry, James Fnlkerson and
Joseph Black.
The principal deposition given in behalf of Colonel Arthnr Camp-
bell, and the one that l:)est illustrates his defence, was that of Cap-
tain Eobert Craig, which is as follows :
"And the deponent further saith; that at July court, 1785, he
was sent for to come into court, and when he camo in saw Arthur
Campbell standing on the floor, and after the said deponent, taking
his seat on the bench. Colonel Eussell, produced to the bench a
commission which he was desirous of swearing in. Colonel Camp-
bell wished the bench to consider the matter niatiirely first. Col-
onel Eussell told the court they could not get over swearing the
officers into this commission, as there was the Governor's procla-
mation enforcing the new militia law in this county. A member
of the court was desirous of seeing the proclamation, upon which
it was handed to the court, when Arthur Campbell raised some
objections against it as it was an unusual manner in which it came ;
but however. Colonel Eussell still insisted to swear into the commis-
sions, urging that there was a necessity for swearing into them,
as the frontier was in danger of being harassed by Indians. Arthur
Campbell m.ade answer that every necessary measure had been
taken for the defence of the frontier, and said that the officers
which had acted would not neglect doing every duty for the fron-
tiers in their power until the August court, which was the longest
time he wanted. That the then officers which were to swear into
their commissions should not be opposed, if nothing was done by
the Executive favorable to the old officers, for he was certain, he
said, that thei-e had been some misrepresentation sent to the
Executive, or they never would have thrown out officers who had
never been called to an account for any misconduct. He likewise
further said that he would leave it to the choice of the people which
41G Southwest Virginia, 174G-1786.
could be known against tlie August court, and if the new militia
law was the choice of a majority of the people, he would be heartily
agreed, and could shoulder his musket as well as any of them; and
then the said Arthur Campbell retired out of the house, and he does
not remember of his returning into the house that day. He con-
sidered Arthur Campbell as acting as a private citizen merely in
his course, and had never known ol his having been guilty of mis-
conduct as a justice of the peace, &c., &c.
"The deponent being interrogated, what information James
Montgomer}^ gave, one of the days of the last court, respecting liis
reasons and motives for accusing Arthur Campbell for malprac-
tices in. his office as Justice of the Peace; Answers, on Wednesday
the Snd day of the court in conversation with Jam.es Montgomery,
said Montgomery often urged that he had been ill used by Ar-
thur Campbell, and particularly for that judgment which was
obtained against him for holding a false Election in 1785, and for
not getting justice in recommendations. As a Militia Officer, the
said Deponent observed, that no judgment was yet ol)tained against
him in Court, but he still insisted there was, and he blamed no
other man but Arthur (Campbell for it. And s'd Deponent asked
said Montgomery Avhy he and Arthur (*am]il)ell had so many dis-
putes, as they were once good friends, and why they might not
cordially drop these disputes and commence good friends again ;
said Montgomery answered that he had been willing to be good
friends with him, Init it was too late now. and if it had not been
purely out of ambition and revenge he would never have raised a
charge against Colonel Campbell.
"And lieing fiirtlier interrogated, if wliat he heard liim sny
in his opinion, was in a dispute, depending before this Court or
relative to tlie charges now pending before the Executive? The
said Deponent answered that he understood it to be that which
lay before the Fxeciitive. Ee'ing fuither 'initerrogaited, if he
thought James Montgomery was in his ])roi>er senses, or if he
thinks he was disguised with liipuu- nt the time tliey had this Con-
versation ; the deponent answers that he drank a share of a quart
bowl of whiskey grog, and seemed as if he had been drinking freely
before, but tTie said deponent cannot say he was di-unk. nlthough
he expressed himself very uoi^y. l)iit as scnsiltle as usual.
"The first depositions taken in this case were suppressed by the
Washington County, 1111-1810. 417
Governor and Council. The order of the Council suppressing
these depositions was as follows :
"Arthur Campbell, appearing in person and being attended by
James Innes and Archibald Stuart, Esquires, his counsel, the
Board resumed the consideration oi the charges exhibited against
him as a Justice of the Peace for the county of Washington, and,
the charges being read, the said Arthur Campbell by his Coun-
sel, objected to the jurisdiction of the Board to proceed to the en-
quiry, under the Act entitled 'An Act to extend the powers of the
Governor and Council,' as being repugnant to the eighth article
of the declaration of rights, and the principles of the Constitu-
tion, which objection being overruled by the Board, the Counsel
for the said Campbell proceeded to object to the nature and pro-
priety of the testimony by Depositions, alleging the witnesses
should personally appear and be examined 'viva voce,' and that
the depositions were taken in a partial manner, declaring at the
same time that tbeir client meant not to shrink from the charges
being enquired into, if impartial persons should be appointed to
take depositions respecting the charges, and transmit them to the
Board.
"Whereupon, the Board delivered their opinion, that as the
certificate of the judges annexed to the depositions did not state
the place as well as the time where the depositions were taken, in
conformity to the notice given, they were not sufficient evidence.
It was therefore ordered by the consent of the said Campbell and
Alexander Montgomery, attending on the part of the accusers, that
depositions respecting the charges aforesaid, as well on the part of
the Commonwealth as the said Arthur Campbell be taken by either
party at the Court House of said Washington County, between
the first and last of next month, giving ten days' notice of the time
and place of taking them, and that David Ward, Andrew Cowan,
John Latham, John Kinkead, John Lowry, James Fulkerson and
Joseph Black, Gentlemen, or any three of them being the commis-
sioners chosen by the parties, attend the taking of the depositions
of such witnesses as shall be produced, and that the commission-
ers transmit the depositions so taken, lyider their hand and seal,
to the Governor on or before the second Tuesday in June next,
at which time the parties are to be heard in the Council Chamber
touching the charges aforesaid."
418 Southwest Virginia, 1746-17S6.
These depositions wore retaken puvsnant to tlie above order of
tlie Couneil and returned to the Governor of Virginia, whereupon
Colonel Campbell addressed the following memorial to the Gov-
ernor and Council :
To His Exccllcncii, the Governor of Virginia, and the Honorahle
the Council of Slate:
THE MEMOEIAL OF ARTHUE CAMPBELL.
"Sheweth : that conscious of the pnritv of his intentions and
the inoffensiveness of liis transactions in 1785, he, last April,
waived his undoubted privilege of viva voce testimony being pro-
duced against him before your Honorable Board. That he should
not have waived such a benefit had it not been for the apparent
sense of the Board in April last, and in confidence that the same
rule for admitting evidence would be adopted before the commis-
sioners appointed to take depositions, as are always adliered to in
the Courts of Law, that such rules liave l)een disregarded and such
persons admitted to swear, who are parties in the dispute, and
others interested and not credible witnesses — That as all your
Memorialist's conversation complained of happened at public
places, where were a large number of the inhabitants generally as-
sembled, several of whom must have heard what words were spoken,
as well as Colonel Eussell, or. any of the avowed complainants.
That he has no objection, and it was really his desire to have a
number of the most credible, disinterested persons in the county
to say on their oath what they knew of the charges l)rought against
your memorialist. However, he believes there are a sufficient num-
ber of such persons already qualified to make the truth appear to
your Honorable Board, without being obliged to resort to the tes-
timony indirectly obtained, and coming from such persons imder
the influence of such passions as always vitiate testimony in
the Courts of Law. Your Memorialist therefore prays, that none
of the depositions taken before the C^ommissioners, in Washington
County, dated the third, fourth, and fifth days of this instant, may
be admitted against him, because, however secure he may now con-
clude himself from the attack of malice, yet the precedent would
be a dangerous one, and might one day return on the heads of
Washington County, 1777-1870. 419
those w]iO' are now so passionately anxious for the destruction of
one who has really done the public no wrong.
"And your Memorialist will ever I'ray, &c., &c.,
"ABTHUE CAMPBELL."
As far as I can ascertain, the Governor and Council sustained
the charges against Colonel Campbell and removed him from the
office of justice of the connty court in August, 1786, but he was
almost immediately reinstated upon the request of the court of
this county.
While Colonel Campbell's conduct in this matter may have been
indiscreet and imprudent, there can be no question that he voiced
the sentiments of a great majority of the citizens living in Wash-
ington county.
At the next election for members of the House of Delegates from
Washington county, held in the spring of the year 1787, he, along
with Eobert Craig, was overwhelmingly elected froin this county,
and Colonel Campbell for many years thereafter, retained the con-
fidence of the people of this county and the State officials at Rich-
mond.
420 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
CHAPTEK IX.
WASHINGTON COUNTY^ 1787-1840.
On tlie 8th day of March, 1787, a small party of Indians came to
the settlement in Castle's Woods, where they killed a woman and
two children, and made their escape in snch a manner that they
conld not be pursued.
A short while previous to this time the Indians had visited Lin-
coln couuty, Kentucky, and stolen a number of horses, and com-
mitted other depredations on the people, whereupon a company of
militia, being about 100 in num1)er, set out from Lincoln county,
under the command of Colonel John Logan, to attack and destroy
a small town inhabited by the Chcrokees, on the north side of the
Tennessee and l)elow the Cuml>erland mountain, who were blamed
for the depredations on the Kentucky Path and in the Kentucky
country.
This company, after a few days, came on a fresh trace of In-
dians, which they followed across Cumberland Gap, and they fell
in with a company of Indians and killed seven, a chief and six
warriors, and wounded several others, one of the Kentucky militia
being killed and another wounded. This company of Indians
proved to be from the friendly town of Chote.
On the 9th day of ,Iuly, 1787, a party of Indians came to the
house of John Carter, on the Clinch, and killed his wife and six
children, and, after phmdering the house, placed the dead bodies
in the same and burned the whole. About the same time a family
of thirteen or fourteen were murdered by the Indians on the
Clinch.
During the spring of this year the Indians killed five persons on
the head waters of the Clinch, two men and three women, and every
indication pointed to war.
The Spanish Government and the American people were, at
this time, engaged in a controversy in regard to the navigation of
the Mississippi river, and a gentleman writing from the Cherokee
country to his friend in Virginia, on the 2d day of August, 1787,
said:
Washington County, 1777-1870. 421
"Through a cliannel that may be credited, I am informed that
Alexander McGillivray is using his utmost exertions to engage the
Creek Indians in a War, not only with Georgia, but with the west-
ern parts of Virginia and No. Carolina. He has said to some of
his friends that his object is to make the war as hot as possible at
first, which will induce overtures for peace, and make the United
States glad to grant advantageous terms, such as to acknowledge
the independence and sovereignty of the Creek Nation, and admit
them as members of the Federal Union.
"A great number of Tories and other white desperadoes have
taken refuge in the Creek country. IMcGillivray was a noted one,
but has lately ingratiated liimself into^ the good graces of the Span-
ish commandant at Mobile; is now agent for his Catholic Majesty
in the Creek Nation, and a Colonel in the Spanish pay, and of
late has usurped the regal authority over the Indians. McGillivray
seems to be possessed of abilities, has an insatiable ambition for
honor, and being aggrandized, and may not be much inferior to
Hyder Ali had he the same opportunity.
"Upon the whole there is reason to believe that the whole is a
plan of the Court of Spain to curtail the United States in a part
of their territory. If that be the case there cannot be too great care
taken to disconcert them. If the Creek Nation was well humbled,
and the nest of Tories that is settled among them routed and
drove out of the country, I think we might have lasting peace;
otherwise we may expect that, the longer it is delayed, our enemies
will become more numerous and formidable."
A large body of Creeks united and crossed the Hiwassee river,
declaring their purpose to march for the Holston settlements.
Colonel Arthur Campbell, who was in command of the defences
of this and Eussell county at the time, directed Captain Samuel
Newell, with a detachment of men, to keep a vigilant outlook for
the Creek Indians on the frontiers, and. for the purpose of retain-
ing the friendship of the Cherokee Indians, he sent their chief the
following talk :
"Brother : — It is Math great concern that we hear that a number
of your Towns' people have lately been killed by some white men
between Clinch river and Cumberland mountain, and that you
blame the Virginians for it. As to who done it, I cannot cer-
tainly say, but have heard that one hundred men from Kentucky
422 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-178G.
had gone towards Chickaraogga Towns to take satisfaction for the
murder that was done on the Kentucky path last October, and
what made the people exceedingly angry, was that they heard their
Captives, mostly women, were all burnt in the Chickamogga To\mis.
''Yon know when the Americans go to Avar, they kill no prison-
ers and try to save alive all the women and children. Wai-riors
will only seek to fight with men; cowards may go to war with
Avomen.
"Brother, listen attentively: ever since the year 1781, when yonr
towns were all destroyed rnr joining the Phiglish, the Virginians
buried the tomahawk deep, and ncAcr wish to raise it again against
their brothers, the Cherokees, but are willing to live in friendship
as long as the moon endures. It will l)e your fault if the friend-
ship is broken. I venture to pi'omise further, that none of the Vir-
ginians living on this side of the Cumberland mountains will mo-
lest the Cherokees without first ol)taining orders from our Cover-
nor, who is a good man, and will see that you liave justice done
if you remain peaceable. He will also call the Kentuckians to ac-
count, if they have been guilty of destroying any of the friendly
Cherokees.
"Brother, call a CVnineil of yoiir head men, give them this
Talk, exhort them to live peaceable, and wait until the Governor
of Virginia can hear all the truth, and if his people are to blame,
he will give him satisfaction and put a stop to former wrongs ; but
if you rashly go to war and kill innocent people, there may be a great
deal of blood shed, for we can send a great army against you that
may destroy you altogether.
"Listen well. You must see that I have now given you good
advice both for you and your nation. Send me in return an answer,
a very long talk. Tell me all there is in your heart. If you are for
keeping the chain of friendship bright, I will be your friend as here-
tofore, and do you all the good I can. It will give me pleasure to
use means to heal tlie wounds and dry up tb.e tears of those that
have lost their friends, and be strong in endeavors to do justice to all
the red peojile that kec]) the ])eace and love the Americans.
"ARTHUR CAMPBELL.
"To ye Great Warrior of the Cherokees."
In the month of December, 1787, the Indians killed and scalped
Stephen English, near Laurel river, on the Kentucky path, and
Washington County, 1777-1870. 433
William English and a yoamg woman on Holston, and at tlie same
time took a woman and four cliildren prisoners, and made an in-
cursion into Powell's Valley. They killed also, several men, wo-
men and cliildren, and, with a number of horses, fled in the direc-
tion of the Cherokee country. During this year a large quantity
of powder and lead was sent from the Holston to the Kentucky
country, but it had to be guarded through the wilderness by fifty
militia.
In the fall of this year, Colonel Joseph Martin was discontinued
from office as Indian agent for the State of Virginia, and was suc-
ceeded by Dr. White.
With the opening of the spring of 1788, the Indians began again
to disturb the settlements, and on the 20th of April, came into the
Kye Cove settlement and carried off three boys and a negro man,
two of the boys being the sons of Thomas Carter, who then repre-
sented Russell county in the General Assembly. Early in the month
of March, a party of Cherokees visited the settlements on the lower
Holston, wounded one man and carried off about one hundred
liorses, and in the month of June, 1788, four men were killed in
Russell county, and three men were killed and scalped on the
Black mountain. One of the Elmires, three of the Breedings and
Neal Roberts, from the New Garden settlements in Russell county,
were found on Black mountain, killed and scalped.
In the spring of this year the Governor requested the representa-
tives from Montgomerv, Washington and Russell counties to recom-
mend tbe number of militia and scouts necessary for the protection
of their several counties, when the following recommendations were
submitted :
"1st. That only one troop of horse are necessary to each regiment,
and in some counties that might be dispensed with, and that the
appointment of officers may be deferred until recommendations come
from the respective counties.
"2d. We believe six scouts will be sufficient for Washington and
Russell, four for Montgomery, and the like number for Greenbrier.
"3d. We hope that at least one full company of Rangers under
an experienced officer will be allowed to do duty towards the Ohio,
and, if attacks are apprehended from the Southern Indians, another
company may be necessary in Powell's Valley on Clinch. Or the
last-mentioned company might be raised by occasional drafts from
424 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
the militia or detacliments from tJie light companies of Washington,
Montgomery and Eussell.
"We believe it would bo an improvement were the ranging com-
panies of one-half musket men^ their guns and bayonets to be of a
neat and light construction, something similar to those used by the
British Highland regiments when in America.
"The scouts ought to occasionally attend the ranging companies,
and if Indians were to be pursued over the Ohio, horsemen, prop-
erly armed, would be useful. These are cursory thoughts; perhaps
a more perfect plan and more economical might be formed, should
your Excellency judge it proper to leave the consideration of the
subject to a council of the field oflBcers of the three Southwestern
counties, to meet in February, except as to scouts, which we think
ought to be ordered into service in February or early in March."
In June of this year, a convention of delegates from the several
counties of Virginia assembled in Richmond for the purpose of
rejecting or ratifying the Constitution of tlie United States, as pro-
posed by the Philadelphia Convention.
The delegates from Washington county in this convention were
Samuel Edmiston and James Montgomery. At this time such dis-
tinguished Virginians as Patrick Henry opposed the ratification of
the Constitution as submitted by the Philadelphia Convention, but
the Virginia Convention ratified tlie Constitution by a vote of 89
to 79, the delegates froui Washington county voting against the rati-
fication of the Constitution.
Colonel Arthur Campbell and his followers were heartily in favor
of the adoption of the Federal Constitution, and no doubt opposed
the election of Edmiston and Montgomery.
In the fall of the year 1788, Eichard Pemlierton, with his family,
lived in Baptist Valley about five miles Avest of Tazewell courthouse.
"On a Sabbath morning late in August, he started to his field,
accompanied by his wife and two childrou, to soe that liis fences
were not down and to repair any breach that might have been made.
According to the custom of the times Mr. Pembertou had taken with
him his gun, which was his constant com])anion. After satisfying
himself that his crops were safe, the little party started back. They
had gone but a few hundred yards, liowever, when two Indians
armed witli ])o\vs and arrows, knives and tomahawks, came yelling
toward them at full speed. In an instant the pioneer's gun was
Washington County, 1777-1870. 425
leveled and the trigger pulled; it missed fire and in liis hurry to
spring the lock again, he broke it and of course, could not fire. See-
ing him raise his gun to shoot caused the Indians to halt and com-
mence firing arrows at him. Keeping himself between his wife and
children and the Indians he ordered them to get on as fast as pos-
sible and try to reach a house at which a Mr. Johnson lived and
where several men were living. This house was some half a mile
distant, but4ie hoped to reach it and save those Avhom he held dear-
est, his wife and children. The Indians made every possible attempt
to separate him from his family, all of which proved vain. They
would retreat to a respectful distance and then come bounding back
like so many furies from the regions of indescribable woe. When
they came too near, he would raise his gnn as if he were really
reserving his fire, which would cause them to halt and try to sur-
round him. But at every attack they shot their arrows into his
breast, causing great pain.
For nearly an hour this running fight was kept up ; still the blood-
thirsty savages pressed on. At last he was sufficiently near John-
son's house to be heard. He was heard, when he raised his powerful
voice for succor. But no sooner did the men at the house hear the
cry of "Indians," than, they took to their heels in an opposite direc-
tion. At last he arrived at the house closely pursued by the Indians,
and entering after his family, barred the door, and began to make
preparation for acting more upon the defensive, when the Indians
made a rapid retreat. Pemberton reached his own house the fol-
lowing day, where he resided many years, an eye-sore to those who
had so ingloriously fled from his assistance. Many ari'ow points
which entered his breast were never removed and were carried to th«
end of his life, as the best certificate of his bravery and devotion
to his family."*
Upon the ratification of the Constitution of the United States,
the General Assembly of A^irginia divided the State into ten con-
gressional districts, the third district being composed of the follow-
ing counties:
Botetourt, Rockbridge,
Montgomery, Greenbrier,
Washington, Augusta,
Russell, Rockingham,
*Bicklev's History of Tazewell.
436 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
and directed that an election be held on the 2d day of Febriiary,
1789, at the court-house in each county in the district, for the elec-
tion of a congi-essman. This election was held pursuant to the
directions of the General Assembly of Virginia, and Andrew Moore,
of Eockbridge coimty, was eh^eted our first representative under
the Constitution of the United States.
On the 15th day of May, 1789, the Indians visited the home of
Joseph Johnson, in the Eye Cove settlement, and destroyed nine
members of his family, Johnson and his two sons making their
escape. His wife and child were found about one-quarter of a mile
from the house, killed and scaljied, and the bones of another child
were found burned in the house, and the rest were killed or carried
into captivity. Johnson lived on Clinch river, where the old path
crossed between the block-house and Eye Cove.
On the first day of October. 1789, a party of Indians captured
the family of one Wiley, who lived on the head waters of the Clinch.
They killed and scalped four of his children and took his wife and
youngest child into captivity. Mrs. Wiley soon made her escape,
and upon her return made oath that the Indians told her that they
would bring foair hundred. Indians against Clinch and Bluestone
in the summer of 1790.
In the fall of this year, William Whitely, who lived in Baptist
Valley, on the line dividing Eussell and Montgomery counties, liad
occasion to leave his home for a short distance In search of his
horses, when a party of Indians fell on him and cut him intO' small
pieces, which they strung on the bushes ; they cut out his heart and
flung it against the ground with so much violence that it covered
itself in the soil. During this same year, a party of Shawnese
Indians ascended the Dry fork of Tug river and fell upon the family
of James Eoark, who lived at a gap in the dividing ridge between
the Clinch and Sandy rivers. Eoark and two of his sons were not
at home at the time. The Indians killed Mrs. Eoark and several
children. Eoark's Gap, the scene of this massacre, is near Maxwell's
station in Tazewell county, and the location of the house occupied
by Eoark and his family is still pointed out by the citizens to every
passer-by. The house stood near a beautiful spring, and what is
termed an "Indian mound" is found near by.
During this same year, John Davidson, who lived on the head
waters of the Clinch, was waylaid and killed by a band of Indiaais
Washington County, 1777-1870. 427
while feeding his horse at a cabin. The Indians were accompanied
on this expedition by a white man, who robbed Davidson's saddle-
bags of their contents.
In October of the year 1789, Colonel Campbell made a return of
the militia of Washington connty, from which it was ascertained to
consist of one county lieutenant, one colonel, one lieutenant-colonel,
one major, fifteen captains, thirteen lieutenants, eleven ensigns,
thirty sergeants, three drummers, two fifers, G75 rank and file, add-
ing in his remarks, "no return from three companies."
"In June, 1790, a predatory party of Indians came from the
Rockcastle hills in Kentucky and made their appearance at the cabin
of Isaac ISTewland, on the North fork of Holston, the place subse-
quently owned by Michael Fleenor and still in possession of his
descendants, some eight miles north of Abingdon. Mr. ISTewland
and his son were at work in a clearing near by, with no one at the
cabin but his wife and her infant. The Indians captured the mother
and infant, burnt the cabin and hurried away with their captives
directly through the mountains toward Paissell. The alarm being
given Jacob Mongle (father of Colonel Abram Mongle), being the
nearest neighbor, gathered a company in as short a time as possible
and took the trail, which had been plainly marked by Mrs. Newland,
who had the presence of mind to break twigs by the way and leave
other signs. After reaching the valley in which Lebanon is now
situated, and fearing that the powder in their flint guns had become
dampened in passing through the thick undergrowth of the moun-
tain, they discharged their guns for the purpose of reloading, in
order to make sure work should they overtake the savages, but it
unfortunately so happened that the Indians had halted, and hearing
the report of firearms took the alarm, murdered their victims and
made their escape. A few minutes after, the pursuing party came to
where the mother and child were lying, the latter not quite dead.
They brought them back to the settlements, Jacob Mongle carrying
the infant, which died in his arms on the way.
The alarm having reached the little settlement at Abingdon it
produced great consternation and serious apprehensions as to what
might befall the little community at Castle's Woods, as the Indians
would probably return in that direction, it being in a line wi^?h their
towns beyond the Cumberland. A young man by the name of Doug-
lass living at Abingdon, a fearless and determined Indian fighter.
428 Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
proposed to cross the mountains to Castle's Woods, for the purpose
of warning the settlers of the impending danger, and a young friend
by the name of Benham, volunteered, against the expostulations of
his relatives and friends, to accompany him on this perilous
journey.
"Everybody in this country acquainted with the old road through
Little Moccasin Gap, will remember the large, square, flat, table-like
rock, some five or six feet high, which stood on the lower side of the
old trace along the creek not far from opposite the little mill now
on the new road in the gap, the noisy machinery of which send;^
strange echoes along the surrounding peaks in these days of piping
peace and corn dodgers. Douglass and Benham had reached that
rock, and as was the custom of most wayfarers as long as that old
road was the highway through the gap, had probably halted to eat
a snack. At this moment the report of a rifle was heard, when
Douglass fell mortally wounded.
He at once told Benham tliat the shot was fatal and urged him to
dodge into, the laurel bordering the stream, make his escape to Cas-
tle's Woods and warn the settlers. Douglass saw the smoke of a
rifle rise from a log between the stream and where the road now
passes, and knowing that it was the habit of the Indian to lie still
under such circumstances till the smoke cleared away, when he
would cautiously raise his head to see the effect of his flre, he drew
a bead upon the spot as he lay propped upon his elbow, and Benham
afterwards stated that he had not gone fifteen yards when he heard
the report of Douglass's rifle. Benham hurried on through the gap,
reached Castle's Woods in safety, and gave the alarm. A company
returning a day or two after found the body of Douglass lying where
Benham left him, with his scalp gone, and on examining the place
where the smoke of the Indian's rifle was seen, blood and brains
were foimd upon the log, showing that Douglass at the instant he
entered upon that journey from which no traveler returns, took an
Indian with him on the solemn march. A grave was excavated
among the rocks on the roadside where he fell, in which his body
was deposited and still sleeps, amid the wildest and most romantic
scenery of all our mountain gorges. It was the custom for each
passer-by who laiew the spot to drop a pebble upon the rude mound,
to perpetuate the memory of the resting place of the brave pioneer
who sacrificed his life for the safety of others perhaps unknown to
Washington County, 1777 -187 a. 439
him, but the vandalism of modern change, instead of rearing a mon-
ument to his memory on the spot, wantonl}^ changed the location of
the road to avoid a slight elevation, and thus obliterated forever
the little hillock that marked the receptacle of the ashes of tlie hero
and martyr.*
Captain Isaac Newland was an active, thriving man, ambitious
for preferment by his country, but the sad occurrence abO'Ve given
had such a bad effect upon him, that "grief for a time seemed to
absorb all powers of his mind and body, and he settled down into a
deep melancholy, regardless of every object or occurrence. He finally
sought comfort in religion, and became a Baptist preacher." f
In the spring of the year 1790, a little boy, the son of John Fra-
zer, of Eussell county, was taken prisoner, and in the fall of this
same year, the entire family of John Frazer was murdered on tlie
Kentucky road. About the middle of August, 1790, six persons
were killed by the Indians on Clinch river in Russell county.
In the year 1791, Ensign Simon Cockrell recommended to tlie
Governor the placing of ten men at Baptist's Valley, ten men at
Eichlands, ten men at New Garden, ten men at Glade Hollow,
twenty men at Castle's Woods, ten men at crossing of Clinch and
Kentucky road, ten men at Moccasin Gap, ten men at Eye Cove, as
a protection against the invasion of the Indians, and as far as I
can ascertain, the people of this section were exempt from Indian
attacks until the fall of 1792.
In the fall of 1791, the Governor instructed Captains Andrew
Lewis and John Preston to recruit two companies of volunteer mili-
tia for the defence of the frontiers of Montgomery, Wythe and Rus-
sell counties, and by the 7th of February, 1792, their companies con-
sisted of four musicians, two ensigns, eight sergeants, eight (x<\-
porals, six scouts and one hundred and thirty-two privates, beside?
the captains and lieutenants, and with this force Captains Lewis
and Preston very effectively defended the frontiers during the suin-
mer of 1792.
In the year 1793, in the election for a representative in the Con-
gress of the United States, the candidates before the people of the
Fourth District of Virginia, which district was composed of the
counties of Wythe, Greenbrier, Kanawha, Lee, Eussell, Montgomei-y,
*Wilburn Waters and Chas. B. Coale.
tChas. B. Coale.
430 Southwest Virginia, 1746-17S6.
Grayson and Washington, were Abraham Trigg, of Montgomery
county and Francis Preston, of Washington county.
Abraham Trigg was a Jeilersonian Eepublican, while Preston was
a Washingtonian Federalist, and the contest between the candidates
representing these diverse principles was bitter.
? The result was the election of Colonel Preston by a majority of
ten votes.
Colonel Trigg was not satisfied witli tlic result and contested the
election of Preston, and assigned the following grounds to sustain
his contest.
First. That the shcriif of Lee county closed the poll at 2 P. M.
on the day of the election and refused to reopen the same.
Second. That the sheriff of Washington county adjourned the
poll two days instead of one as required by the laAv, and that non-
residents of the State voted for Colonel Preston in said election.
Third. That Captain William Preston, a brother of Francis Pres-
ton, was stationed near J\fontgomery courthouse with sixty or sev-
enty Federal troops, and that on the day of the election. Captain
Preston's troops were marched three times around the court-house
and were paraded in front of and close to the door thereof.
Foujth. That said troops were polled in favor of Preston.
That a part of the troops stood at the door of the court-
house and refused to let the electors favoring Trigg enter the house,
and in one instance knocked down a magistrate who sought admis-
sion, being an advocate of Colonel Trigg.
Tills contest was as hotly fought before Congress as the election
had been before the people.
The Elections Committee of the House of Eepresentatives on the
17th day of April, 1794, reported in favor of rmseating Francis
Preston.
This report was debated for many days, after which a vote was
taken, which vote resulted in the report of the committee being
rejected and Francis Preston was thereupon declared duly seated.
Colonel Preston was returned a member of Congress from thirf
district by successive elections till the year 1797.
Thus our district early in its history witnessed a contest before
the Congress of the United Statos.
At the election held for a presidential elector, on the first Monday
in jSTovember, 1792, for the district composed of the counties of
Washington County, 1777-1870. 431
Wythe, Washington, Eussell and Montgomeiy, Chiiborne Watkins
was selected an elector from this district to vote for President and
Vice-President of the United States.
In the month of December, 1792, Captain Tate and forty men
were passing througli the wilderness on their way to Kentucky,
when they were attacked by a company of Creek and Cherokee
Indians, and, about tbe same time, several lesser encoimters oc-
curred, but I cannot ascertain the casualties on either side.
In the fall of 1793, the citizens of North Carolina provoked a
war with the Indians, and, in the month of October, John Watts,
at the head of a thousand hostile Indians, threatened an invasion of
the Holston settlements and the settlements in Powell's Valley.
Watts, with liis forces, began his march for the settlements and
reached Buchanan's fort witliin five miles of Knoxville, where ho
v.as repulsed with a loss of fifteen men killed, AVatts himself receiv-
ing a bad wound. After this repulse, Watts's army dispersed in
small parties, declaring their purpose to invade the settlements and
to attack the settlers out of their forts. It was the declared pur-
pose of W^atts and his followers, to drive off and destroy the whole
of the inhabitants in Powell's Valley.
The situation was truly alarming for the Virginia settlements in
Powell's Valley, and the Governor of Virginia requested Colonel
Arthur Campbell and Captain John Preston to submit to him their
vieM^s as to the proper manner to proceed to place the western fron-
tiers in a defensive position. Colonel Arthur Campbell submitted
the following proposal :
"That a company of fifty men as rangers, be engaged for three
months from the first day of December next, to do duty at or near
Cumberland Gap.
As it is in the contemplation of the Executive of the State of
Kentucky to have a fort built about half way in the wilderness, and
place a garrison of fifty men in it, our troops, after they fortify their
camp, may meet those rangers occasionally, and to the southward
meet those under the direction of Governor Blount, which would
form a chain of connection that might preclude the necessity of
troops being stationed on Clinch river. As to attempts of the South-
ern enemy, the regulars on the Ohio may cover that frontier from
the inroads of the Northern Indians. But it will be useless respect-
ins the Southern war.
432 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
The post at Cumberland Gap, besides covering a detached fro'.itior
settlement in Virginia, will divide the distance between Danville
and Hawkins Courthouse and of course will facilitate the trans-
portation of the mail and secure our intercourse with the army on
the Ohio by land.
This is a plan of economy, on account of the idea of the Executive
of the general government. A full company ought to be the number
tor this service, as they may be assailed by large parties of Indimis
and as they will be more than one hundred milps from the settle-
jnent from which they can expect succour in case of extremity.
It will be peculiarly mortifying, if the frontier of Virginia,
exposed to the attacks of the Southern Indians, be ncg-ected, \rhen
their neighbors in the Southwestern Territory, not so much in dan-
ger, have an ample force ranging around the "ettl.^ments. Tlie
Virginians, without murmuring, pay duties to the general govern-
ment; the citizens of the Southwestern Territory not a shiHiug;
Georgia and South Carolina are arranging to -opposa the f^ami'
eremy, and will no doubt be paid for their services out of the Treas-
nry of the United States."
Captain John Preston proposed, that there should be stationed:
"At the mouth of Greenbrier, an ensign, sergeant and sixteen
privates.
"At the five-mile fork of East river, a lieutenant, one sergeant, a
corporal and twenty-four privates.
"At Lincolnshire, on Clinch, a captain, a sergeant, a corporal and
twenty-four privates.
"At Hawkins, in the Baptist Valley, a sergeant and eight privates.
"At Brown's or Fugate's, in the Eichlands, a sergeant, corporal
and twelve privates.
"At Wilkinson's, in the New Garden, a lieutenant, sergeant and
sixteen privates.
"At the montli of Dump's creek, an ensign, two corporals and
twelve privates.
"At .Roberson's, in Castle's Woods, a captain, a sergeant, corporal
and twenty-four privates.
"At Blackmore's Station, a sergeant, corporal and twelve privates.
"At Carter's, in Rye Cove, a captain, sergeant, corporal and
twenty-four privates.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 433
"At Turkey Cove, a captain, sergeant, corporal and twenty-four
privates.
"At Martin's old station, an ensign, sergeant and corporal.
"At Cox's, an ensign, sergeant, corporal and sixteen privates.
"At Martin's lower station, sometimes called the blockhouse,
where Eobinson lives, which is the lower settlement of Virginia,
and where the Kentucky road enters this State, a captain, two ser-
geants, two corporals and thirty-one privates.
"At Blackwater branch, a place exposed to the south in Lee
county, a lieutenant, sergeant, corporal and twelve privates.
"And tlie scouts to be dispersed along the frontier as shall be
deemed necessary, and changed when required."
I cannot say which proposition was acted upon, but it is certain
that steps were taken to protect the frontiers.
Captain, Matthew Willoughby and Ensign William Campbell
were stationed in Powell's Valley.
The trouble with the Indians began at the opening of spring in
the year 1793. On Sunday about the first day of April, Ensign
Moses Cockrell and two men were passing from Eye Cove to Powell's
Valle}^, with several loaded horses. On the top of Powell's mountain
they were fired on by twelve Indians. The two men who accompa-
nied Cockrell were shot dead on the spot, and Cockrell himself was
pursued to tlie foot of the mountain. Two of his horses were killed
and all the loads lost.
Captain Neal, with a party, pursued the Indians but did not suc-
ceed in overtaking them. The Chief who led this company of
Indians was a half-breed Shawnese by the name of Benge. A writer
in speaking of this occurrence says : "He was remarkable for his
strength, activity, endurance and great speed as a runner. He was
a man of more than average intelligence also, as well as of great
bravery and strategy, and had more than once approached the settle-
ments so stealthily and by a route so secret that he fell upon the scat-
tered settlers without an intimation of his approach and retired to
his wigwams beyond the Cumberland without leaving a trace of the
route he had traveled, though rangers were constantly on the lookout
for his trail. One of these rangers of the Holston settlements was
a man by the name of Cockrell, and the writer must make a digres-
sion to record an incident in his history. He was famous for his
size, activity and handsome person. Benge and himself were rivals
434 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
in manhood and woodcraft, each jealous of the other's prowess and
courage, and both anxious for an occasion to moot in single combat.
Xot many months before Benge's last incursion, they met on top of
Powell's mountain, in what is now Lee county, each with a band
of followers. The Indians were in ambush, having observed the
approach of the whites, who were not aware of their proximity, and
Benge instructed his companions not to kill Cockrell, so that he
himself might run him down and capture him. At the crack of the
Indian rifles two or three of Cockrell's companions fell; seeing
which and at once comprehending the folly of a combat with a
dozen savages, he sprang aAvay down the mountain side, like an ante-
lope, with Benge in close pursuit. Two miles away in the valley on
Wallen's creek was the cabin of a pioneer, in reaching which Cock-
rell knew was his only chance of escape. Having two hundred
dollars in specie in a belt around him, he found he was carrying two
much weight for a closely contested race, and that Benge w^as gain-
ing on him. Making a desperate effort, however, he increased his
speed a little, and as he leaped the fence that surrounded the cabin,
Benge's tomahawk was buried in the top rail before Cockrell reached
the ground. Benge seeing that he had missed his aim, and not
knowing how many men and rifles might be in the cabin, fled back
to his companions, sadly disappointed.
A few years after this Cockrell died on the north fork in this
county, and during the "wake," while his body lay in the cabin, an
old comrade who had been in many a hard pinch with him, thus
gave utterance to his thoughts and feelings as he paced the punch-
eon floor in great sorrow : "Poor Cockrell, he is gone ! He was a
noble fellow after Injuns and varmints, and I hope he has gone to
where, there is as much game and as desperate good range as he
had on Holston !"*
During the same week, fourteen persons were killed on the Ken-
tucky road, near the Hazel Patch. The whites discovered the In-
dians and attempted to secure the first fire, but failed, and only
two of the whites made their escape. The Indians lost five dead,
and one white man with them killed. Both parties broke and ran
at the same time in opposite directions.
About the 15th of March, 1793, several emigrants were killed on
*Coale's "Wilbuni Waters."
Washington County, 1777-1870. 435
the Kentucky road. Captain Andrew Lewis, to appease tlie set-
tlers who were about to break up, placed a sergeant and twelve men
at Dump's creek.
At Eye Cove, a sergeant and seven men.
At St. Mary's, with the French, a sergeant and seven men, which
left twenty men at Fort Lee.
On the 20th day of March, 1793, a party of Indians numbering
twenty-tliree appeared upon the frontiers of Wythe and Montgom-
ery, frequently showing themselves, to the terror of the inhabitants.
John Davidson was murdered by them and a number of horses were
stolen from Wolf creek, Bluestone and Island creek. The Indians
made their escape, except a small party entrusted with the care of
about eighty horses, from Island creek. This company was pur-
sued by a large party from Bluestone and another from the head of
Clinch, and were overtaken the next day, at the mouth of Little
Cole, at what is called the Island of Guyandotte, where they were
attacked by the whites. Three of their number were killed and
scalped, all tlie horses retaken, with the arms and blankets of a part
of their warriors. The number of Indians concerned in the murder
of John Davidson at the Laurel fork of Wolf creek was about twelve.
This party of Indians carried off a number of horses from that
neighborhood and passed with them in daylight through, the heart
of the Bluestone settlement.
Colonel Arthur Campbell, in the spring of the year 1793, was
commissioned by the President of the United States as Indian
agents, and in April of this year, communicated to the Presi-
dent of the United States a request from the Chickasaw Indians
for tlie building of a fort and the settling of a strong garrison, at
the Muscle Shoals,* and, in commenting upon this request wrote:
"I will observe on this invitation, that I am of opinion, from the
best information, that the United States had never so great an offer
made them, for the point of position which they will give peaceably
into our hands commands a portage of sixteen miles only, between
the Tennessee and the navigable waters of the Mobile, as well as an
immense extent of country, which must shortly become the bone of
Spanish contention, and facilitate the route to many angles on the
*Near Chattanooga, Term.
43G Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
Mississippi. It is Nature's masterpiece for an immense and power-
ful ciij. It intercepts the main communication between the hostile
tribes of the North and South. It secures the Chickasaw and Choc-
taw Nations as effective light infantry in our service. It places the
troops where they can be supplied with every necessary, even with
native productions from the respective western settlements, and puts
us in a condition to convey heavy artillery o.*" our owu easting ns
well as arjiiT and military supplies, with a degree of facility unsus-
pected by the fSpanish, whenever the threatening harms shall burst
on thip devoted country, this field of contest."
This extract from the writings of Colonel Campbell, is given to
illustrate his character and foresight.
In the same letter he says : "I have nearly completed a new map
of all this country, as well as that of Kentucky and a part of the
northwestern territory, and shall go on in a few days to lay it before
the President." I am sorry indeed that I cannot find this map in
any of the records I have been able to obtain.
Colonel Isaac Bledsoe was killed on Cumberland in the month of
April, and on the 30th of the month, a skirmish took place between
twenty Indians and eight white men at Laurel river, in Ken-
tucky, in which skirmish the white people were all killed, except
McFarland, who escaped, and a number who were wounded.
In the month of March, 1793, a considerable band of Indians
were seen on the headwaters of the Clinch river attempting to
steal horses. The Indians finally succeeded in stealing eight
horses, and made off toward the Ohio. In the meantime Major
Eobert Crockett proceeded to gather a company to pursue the In-
dians, and while engaged in gathering them in he directed Joseph
Gilbert and Samuel Lusk, two scouts, to follow the Indians, and,
in case they found them, to give him information.
Gilbert and Lusk had not followed the Indians more than an
hour, when they came to a lick, at which the Indians had con-
cealed themselves waiting for deer or elk. As soon as the scouts
approached the lick they were fired upon by the Indians, and
Lusk was wounded in the hand. Gilbert turned and started to
run, when Lusk called him to stay and save his life, if possible.
Gilbert, fired with all the noble instincts of true manhood, turned
and shot the first Indian dead on the spot. The Indians sur-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 437
rounded him, and, his gun being empty, he dropped it and drew
his hunting knife, and attacked the Indians with such spirit that
they dared no longer get within his reach; but they used their
tomahawks with such effect that he soon lay dead by the side of
Lusk, who was now reviving. The Indians scalped Gilbert and
carried Lusk off a prisoner. Major Crockett and his force came
up after some time, but they were too late to accomplish any good.
On the 25th of April, 1793, the first postofBce on the waters of
the Holston or Clinch was established at Abingdon with Gerrard
T. Conn as postmaster, this being the first time that the people of
this portion of Virginia were given the privilege of mail facilities.
Previous to this time the means employed by the people for com-
munication was by sending tlieir k'ttcrs by tJu' hand of some one
going or returning. A citizen of Abingdon, contemplating a trip
to Kentucky, or to the Valley, or Eastern Virginia, would adver-
tise the fact, and the time when he would begin his journey, that
he might be the bearer of letters and messages between the people.
The settlements, as far as I can ascertain, were exempt from in-
vasion by the Indians until the month of October of this year.
On the third day of this month a party of Indians attacked two
families who had lately settled on the road through the wilder-
ness, on the Kentucky side of the Cumberland mountain, within
three miles of Hawkins' Station. They killed one man and
wounded two children, but were driven off by a man who occupied
an adjoining house.
In the fall of 1793, a party of eight Indians passed through
the thinly-settled parts of Kussell county, and captured a negro
woman, the property of Paul Livingston, near Big Moccasin Gap,
but before they could carry her beyond the settlements she made
her escape and reached her home.
On the 14th day of April, 1794, a number of citizens presented
a petition to the Governor, which is as follows :
"The memorial and petition of the subscribers. Inhabitants in
the western part of Washington county, and the eastern settle-
ments of Lee, near Mockison Gap, —
"Humbly sheweth. That altho' we have been considered an in-
terior settlement, yet, from yarious xmfortunate occurrences, it
438 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
miist appear that we are equally exposed with the most distant
frontier settlements.
"That by attending to the geography of the Southwestern fron-
tier, it Avill appear that from the western settlement of Eussell
county, on Clinch river, and the eastern of Lee in Powell's Valley,
there is an uninhabited space of more than twenty miles nearly
north of your petitioners' dwellings, which makes us to that extent
a frontier to the State,
"That the predatory parties of the Indians, always industrious
in discovering the weakness of our settlements, have for years past
made their inroads through this vacant or uninhabited space, and
have committed several cruel murders in the neighborhood of your
petitioners, as will appear by the following detail :
"August £6, 1791, a party of Indians headed by a Captain Bench,
of the Cherokee tribe, attacked the house of Elisha Ferris, two
miles from Mockison Gap, murdered Mr. Ferris at his house, and
made prisoner Mrs. Ferris and her daughter, Mrs. Livingston, and
a young child together with ISTancy Ferris. All but the latter were
cruelly murdered the first day of their captivity.
"April 1793, the same chief with a party of Indians, attacked
and murdered the family of Harper Eatcliffe, six in number, about
eight miles west of the above-mentioned gap.
"March 31, 1793, the enemy attacked on Powell's mountain
Moses Cockrell and two •others, who had horses loaded with mer-
chandise; killed two men, took all the goods, and pursued Mr. Cock-
rell nearly two miles.
"July 17, 1793, Bench with two other warriors traversed the set-
tlement, on the north fork of Holston for upwards of twenty miles,
probably with the intention of making discoveries where were negro
property. In this rout they fired at one Williams, and took pri-
soner a negro woman, the property of Paul Livingston, who after
two days captivity made her escape.
"And lastly, April 6, 1794, the melancholy disaster which befell
Mr. Livingston's family and property, which has urged this appli-
cation for assistance to prevent the depopulation of a considerable
settlement.
"From the above facts your Excelleiicy and Council will be a
judge of the justice of our claim, that such protection be afforded
us, as the State may be able to afford and our necessities require.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 439
"All of which we submit with deference and your petitioners
will ever pniy.
"A. BLEDSOE,
"GEORGE WILCOX,
"ABRAHAM FULKERSON,
"JOHN V. COOK,
"JAMES FULKERSON,
"April 14, 1794/'
The disaster referred to in this communication as happeninor to
Mr. Livingston's family, occurred on the 6th of April, 1794, near
the present town of Mendota in this county.
William Todd Livingston was one of the first persons to settle in
this county and was the first and only man for many years in the
county, who had more than one name. He had died some years pre-
ceding this occurrence, and his son Peter Livingston, had become
the owner of his valuable lands and numerous negro slaves. The
Indians, in making their incursions into the country, never failed
to steal and carry off a negro slave, when possible, and there can
be but little doubt that the presence of negroes at the Living-
ston farm, attracted the attention of the Indians. An account of
this Indian raid was given by Mrs. Elizabeth Livingston, and put
down in her presence nearly in her own words, and is as follows :
"April 6th, 1794.
"About 10 o'clock in the morning, as I was sitting in my house,
the fierceness of the dog's barking alarmed me. I looked out and
saw seven Indians approaching the house, armed and painted in a
frightful manner. No person was then within* but a child of ten
years old, and another of two, and my sucking infant. My husband
and his brother Henry had just before walked out to a barn at some
distance in the field. My sister-in-law, Susanna, was with the
remaining children in an out-honse. Old Mrs. Livingston was in
the garden. I immediately shut and fastened the door; they (the
Indians) came furiously up, and tried to burst it open, demanding
of me several times to open the door, which I refused. They then
fired two guns; one ball pierced through the door, but did me no
damage. I then thought of my husband's rifie, took it down but it
being double triggered, I was at a loss ; at length I fired through the
door, but it not being well aimed I did no execution ; however the
440 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Indians retired from that place and soon after that an old adjoining
house was on fire, and I and my children suffering much from the
smoke. I opened the door and an Indian immediately advanced
and took me prisoner, together with the two children. I then dis-
covered that they had my remaining children in their pos-
session, my sister Sukey, a wench with her young child, a negro
man of EdWard Callihan's and a negro boy of our own about eight
years old. They were fearful of going into the house I left, to
plunder, supposing that it had been a man that shot at them, and
was yet within. So our whole clothing and household furniture
were consumed in the flames, which I was then pleased to see, rather
than that it should be of use to the savages.
"We were all hurried a short distance, where the Indians were
very busy, dividing and putting up in packs for each to carry his
part of the booty taken. I observed them careless about the chil-
dren, and most of the Indians being some distance off in front,
I called with a low voice to my eldest daughter, gave her my young-
est child, and told them all to run towards neighbor John Russell's.
"They, with reluctance, left me, sometimes halting, sometimes
looking back. I beckoned them to go, although I inwardly felt
pangs not to be expressed on account of our doleful separation.
The two Indians in the rear either did not notice this scene, or they
were willing the children might run back.
"That evening the Indians crossed Clinch Mountain and went
as far as Copper creek, distant about eight miles.
"April 7th, set out early in the morning, crossed Clinch river
at McLean's fish dam about twelve o'clock, then steered north-
wardly towards tBe head of Stoney creek. There the Indians
camped carelessly, had no back spy nor kept sentries out. This
day's journey was about twenty miles.
"April 8th. Continued in camp until the sun was more than an
hour high; then set out slowly and traveled five or six miles and
camped near the foot of Powell's mountain. This day Benge, the
Indian chief, became more pleasant, and spoke freely to the pri-
soners. He told them he was about to carry them to the Cherokee
towns. That in his route in the wilderness was his brother with
two other Indians hunting, so that he might have provision when
he returned. That at his camp were several white prisoners taken
from Kentucky, with horses and saddles to carry them to the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 441
towns. He made enquiry for several persons on Holston, particu-
larly old General Shelby, and said he would pay him a visit during
the ensuing summer, and take away all his negroes. He frequently
enquired who had negroes, and threatened he would have them all
off the North Holston. He said all the Chickamogga towns were
for war, and would soon be very troublesome to the white folks.
"This day two of the party were sent by Benge ahead to himt.
"April 9th. After travelling about five miles, which was over
Powell's mountain, and near the foot of the Stone mountain,* a
party of 1;hirteen men under command of Lieutenant Vincent
Hobbs, of the militia of Lee county, met the enemy in front,
attacked and killed Benge the first fire, I being at that time some
distance off in the rear. The Indian who was my guard at first
halted on hearing the firing. He then ordered me to run, which
I performed slowly. He attempted to strike me in the head witli
the tomahawk, which I defended as well as I could with my arm.
By this time t«^o of our people came in view, which encouraged me
to struggle all I could. The Indian making an effort at this
instant pushed me backward, and I fell over a log, at the same
time aiming a violent blow at my head, which in part spent its force
on me and laid me for dead. The first thing I afterwards remem-
bered was my good friends around me, giving me all the assistance
in their power for my relief. They told me I was senseless for
about an hour.
"Certified this 15th day of April, 1794.
"A CAMPBELL."
Vincent Hobbs was a lieutenant in the militia of Lee county,
and, at the time in question, he was attending the court of that
county which was in session. Upon the arrival of the express with
the news of the Indian invasion, the court immediately adjourned
and a party was organized upon the spot, under the command of
Hobbs, to waylay a gap in Cumberland mountain called the Stone
gap, through which, it was supposed, the Indians were mostly to
pass. On his arrival at the gap, Hobbs discovered that the Indians
had just passed through before him : he therefore pursued with
eagerness and soon discovered two Indians kindling a fire; these,
they instantly dispatched, and finding some plunder with them.
*Near Dorchester, Wise county.
442 Southwest Virginia, llJt6-1786.
which they knew must, have been taken out of Livingston's house,
they at once came to the conclusion that these two had been sent
forward to hunt for provisions and that the others were yet behind
with the prisoners.
"The object of Hobbs was now to make a quick retreat, to cover
his own sign if possible, at the gap, before the Indians should dis-
cover it, and perhaps kill the prisoners and escape. Having gained
this point he chose a place of ambuscade; but not exactly liking
this position he left the men there, and taking one with him by the
name of Van Bibber, he went some little distance in advance to
try if he could find a place more suitable for his purpose. As they
stood looking around for such a place, they discovered the Indians
coming up with their prisoners. They cautiously concealed them-
selves and each singled out his man. Benge, having charge of the
younger Mrs. Livingston, led the van, and the others followed in
succession; but the Indian who had charge of the elder Mrs. Liv-
ingston was considerably behind, she not being able to march with
the same light, elastic step of her sister. When the front came
directly opposite to Hobbs and Van Bibber they both fired, Hobbs
killing Benge, and Van Bibber the one next behind him. At the
crack of the rifle the other men rushed forward, but the Indians
had escaped into a laurel thicket, taking with them a negro fellow.
The Indian who had charge of the elder Mrs. Livingston tried his
best to kill her, but he was so hurried that he missed his aim. Her
arms were badly cut by defending her head from the blows of his
tomahawk. The prisoners had scarcely time to recover from their
surprise before the two Livingstons, who heard the guns and were
now in close pursuit with a party of men from Washington, came
running up and received their wives at the hands of Hobbs with a
gust of joy. Four Indians were killed and five had escaped, and
it appears they were separated into parties of three and two. The
first had the negro fellow with them, and, by his account, they
lodged that night in a cave, where he escaped from them and got
home. ' : !^'^!
In the meantime a party of the hardy mountaineers of Eussell
collected and proceeded in haste to wa3day a noted Indian crossing
place high up on the Kentucky river. When they got there they
found some Indians had just passed. They immediately drew the
same conclusion that Hobbs had done, and hastened back to the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 443
river for fear those behind should discover their sign. Shortly
after they had stationed themselves, the other three made their
appearance; the men fired upon them, two fell and the other fled,
but left a trail of blood behind him, vrhich readily conducted his
pursuers to where he had taken refuge in a thick canebrake. It
was thought imprudent to follow him any further, as he might be
concealed and kill some of them before they could discover him.
Tims eight of the party were killed and the other perhaps mortally
wounded."*
Colonel Campbell communicated to the Governor of Virginia the
circumstances attending this raid by the Indians; along with the
written statement of Mrs. Livingston^ as heretofore given. Colonel
Campbell in his letter to the Governor, says : "The scalp of Captain
Benge, I have been requested to forward to your Excellency, as a
proof that he is no more, and of the activity and good conduct of
Lieutenant Hobbs, in killing him and relieving the prisoners.
Could it be spared from our treasury, I would beg leave to hint
that a present of a neat rifle to Mr. Hobbs would be accepted, as
a reward for his late services, and the Executive may rest assured
that it would serve as a stimulus for future exertions against the
enemy." The General Assembly oi Virginia, pursuant to this
recommendation, voted Lieutenant Vincent Hobbs a handsome and
costly silver-mounted rifle. Many of the descendants of Lieutenant
Hobbs live in Soutliwest Virginia at this time, and are highly
respected and patriotic.
One of the principal creeks in the county of Wise, at this day
bears the name of the Indian chief, Benge.
This is the last recorded invasion of Southwest Virginia ])y the
red men.
On the 2d of June, 1794, Colonel Campbell reported the militia
of the county to the Governor of Virginia as follows: Eegiment
No. 70, brigade N"o. 17, division Ko. 3, 1,287 free white males of
sixteen years and upwards, completely organized.
In August of this year William King and James Caldwell,
natives of Ireland and merchants by profession, took tlie oatli of
fidelity to the Commonwealth in the county court of this county.
William King, who at this time became a citizen of AVasliina^ton
*MSS letter of Benj Sharp.
444 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
county, afterwards became one of the wealthiest and most influen-
tial men who ever lived in this county and left a large number of
relatives.
The General Assembly of A'irginia, on the 28th day of December,
1794, passed an act requiring the peoj)le of Washington county to
pay their taxes for the years 1782-1783-1.784, and appointed
Thomas Mitchell to collect the same as the officer of the State, and
after some time, he succeeded in collecting all that was due the
State from the people of the comity.
In the year 1795, a number of the citizens of Washington and
Eussell counties emancipated their slaves ; among the number
Elizabeth Eussell, sister of Patrick Henry and wife of General Wil-
liam Campbell, Francis Preston, Charles Bickley and others. The
deeds executed by Mrs. Russell and Francis Preston are as follows :
Whereas by the wrong doing of men it hath been the unfortu-
nate lot of the following negroes to be slaves for life, to-wit : Vina,
Adam. Nancy sen., Nancy, Kitty and Selah. And whereas believ-
ing the same have come into my possession by the direction of Prov-
idence, and conceiving from the clearest conviction of my con-
science aided by the power of a good and just God, that it is l)otli
sinful and nnjust, as they are by nature equally free with myself,
to continue them in, slavery, I do, therefore, by these presents, under
the influence of a duty I not only owe my conscience, but the just
God who made us all, make free the said negroes hoping while
they are free of man they will faithfully serve their Maker through
the merits of Christ.
Given under my hand and seal this 21st day of July, 1795.
ELIZABETH EUSSELL, (L. S.)
To all whom it may concern :
Whereas my negro man John (alias) John Broady, claims a
promise of freedom from his former master General William Camp-
bell, for his faithful attendance on him at all times, and more par-
ticularly while he was in the army in the last war, and I who claim
the said negro^ in right of my wife, daughter of the said General
William Campbell, feeling a desire to emancipate the said negro
man John, as well for the fulfillment of the above-mentioned prom-
ise, as the gratification of being instrumental of prompting a parti-
cipation of liberty to a fellow creature, who by nature is entitled
Washington County, 1777-1870. 445
thereto, do by these presents for myself, my heiis, e.vecHitois unci
administrators fully emancipate and make free to all mtenls and
purposes the said negro man John (alias) John Jiioady fiom me
forever. As witness my hand and seal, this 20tli day of ;>eptember,
one thousand seven hundred and ninety-three.
FEANCIS PEESTON, (L. S.)
From an inspection of the records of our coui't at the time in
question, it seems that there was a strong sentiment prevailing
among the people of this section of Virginia in favor of abolishing
slavery.
The next occurrence of importance was the organization of a
Masonic lodge, at the house of James White, in the town of Abing-
don, on the 3d day of October, 1796, by virtue of a dispensation
from the Grand Master of Virginia This lodge ol Masons was
organized through the influence of William King, Daniel Murphey,
Eobert Johnston, Charles Carson, William Preston Skillem, Francis
Preston, Claiborne Watkins and Joseph Hays. The lodge thus
organized is still in existence, and has exercised a wonderful
influence for good in the history of our county.
Upon the death of General Washington, in the year 1799, infor-
mation of which reached Abingdon, in January, 1800, the Masonic
Lodge, at their regular stated meeting on the 21st day of January,
adopted the following resolutions :
"The lodge, viewing with a lively regret the loss the world and
particularly Masonry has sustained by the death of our beloved
brother, 'the great Washington,^ and being desirous to exhibit a
testimonial of its exalted opinion of its virtues,
"Eesolved, That the AVorshipful Master, Francis Preston, be
requested to deliver an eulogium on the 22d day of next month, at
the courthouse, adapted to the occasion."
And at a stated meeting of the lodge on the 18th of February,
1800, the following resolutions were adopted :
"On motion of Bnotheir Smith, seconded by Brother Tate,
ordered that a committee be appointed by the Worshipful Master,
consisting of five members of the lodge to meet a committee of the
citizens of Washington county in order to' enter into regulations for
the celebration of the memory of the great Washington on the 22d
instant, so that the Mason and the soldier may be united with ease
44G Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
and ornament. That the said committee do meet the citizens forth-
with; whereupon the Master appointed Brothers William Tate,
Eobert Preston, Francis Smith, William King and Joseph Hays to
form the said coniinittee.
"Resolved, That on the 22d instant the Masons meet at their
hall and march in procession from the lodge to the court-house,
after which, each Mason acting as captain of the militia, will pro-
ceed to his company with his Masonic apparatus, uniting in the
man the Mason and the soldier."
While there is no documentary evidence of the fact, there can
be but little doubt that a great concourse of the citizens of Wash-
ington county assembled at Abingdon on the 22d day ol February,
1800, to pay a last tribute to the memory of the great Washington.
Upon the reassembling of the Masonic lodge on the evening of
the same day, a committee was appointed with instructions to
draft an account and a sketch of the proceedings of the day, and
to have the same published in the "Virginia Argus," a news-
paper published in Eichmond, Virginia, along with the address of
Francis Preston delivered upon the occasion.
At the March term, 1799, of the court of Washington county,
Virginia, William King, James Armstrong, John Eppler and Rob-
ert Craig, were appointed a committee to report to the next court
the plan of a stone prison and the probable expense of building
the same.
This committee reported at the April term, 1799, and the con-
tract for the building of the new jail or prison house was let to
James White, at the sum of $1,536.21.
He was paid a large part of the contract price for building this
jail, out of the moneys derived from the sale of lots in the town of
Abingdon, and the balance was paid by a levy upon the citizens of
the county.
In this year the militia of Washington county was rearranged,
the Seventieth Regiment of militia was divided, and the One
Hundred and Fifth Regiment of militia organized, Colonel Fran-
cis Preston commanding the Seventieth and Colonel Robert Camp-
bell the One Hundred and Fifth Regiment of militia of Washing-
ton county upon its reorganization.
By the year 1803, William King and other enterprising citizens
of the county were actively engaged in the manufacture of salt at
Washington County, 1777-1870. 447
Saltville, Virginia, and throngh the influence of these gentlemen
the General Assembly of Virginia undertook the first internal
improvement upon the public account in Southwestern Virginia.
On the 28th day of December, 1803, the General Assembly of
Virginia incorporated the Abingdon and Saltville Turnpike, and
appointed William King, Francis Preston, William Tate, William
Poston, Samuel Edmiston, James White and David Campbell, com-
missioners to mark out and let to contract the building of a turn-
pike road from Abingdon to Saltville.
Tliis Act of the Assembly provided that "the tolls received from
the said road should be subject to the order of the General Assem-
bly of Virginia," and by the same Act the tolls to be charged for
the use of said road was prescribed as follows :
One loaded wagon and team, 25c.
On every cart, per wheel, 5c.
On every saddle-horse, 6c.
On riding carriages per wheel, 6c.
On every head of cattle, Ic.
This road was for many- years the best to be found in our
county.
Some time between the years 1800-1810, a new court-house built
of brick was erected in the town of Abingdon on the southeast cor-
ner of the present public square. The date of the erection of this
court-house, its dimensions and cost, along with the name of the
contractor, cannot be ascertained, as the records of the court cov-
ering this period have been destroyed.
Nothing of sufficient importance to be recorded occurred in this
county, so far as I can ascertain, from 1803 until the year 1806.
On the 4th day of January, 1806, John G. Ustick published the
first newspaper, so far as I can ascertain, in Washington county,
the title of which was the "HOLSTON INTELLIGENCEK AND
ABINGDON ADVERTISEE," a four-column, four-page paper,
a copy of which is preserved, a very creditable paper indeed, giv-
ing the local news of the county, the proceedings of Congress and
foreign news.
Abingdon has not been without a newspaper from January 4,
1806, until the present time, except the period from December 15,
1864, when the town was burned by the Federal troops, to December
8, 1865.
448 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
THE WAR OF 1812-1815.
By the opening of tlie year 1813, the situation of affairs was snch
as to strongly indicate war between the United States and Great
Britain. Tlie American public was greatly excited and seemed
to be anxious for the conflict. The government of the United
States was making every preparation for war.
In the spring of the year 1812, the Congress of the United
States passed a resolution by a vote of 79 to 49 declaring war against
Great Britain, over the protest of the Federalist members of Con-
gress, among the number being Daniel Sheffey, the member from
this district, and on the 18tli day of June, 1812, the Senate of
the United States, by a vote of 19 to 18, concurred in the resolu-
tion of Congress, and war was formally declared.
On July 6, 1812, David Campbell was commissioned a major in
tl:p Twelfth Eegiment of Infantry, A. S. A., and, raising all
recruits possible, he proceeded to Winchester, Virginia, where Ik'
joiniM] his regiment. The Twelfth Regiment of Infantr}- A\as
<if!icei'ed as follows:
(^olonel, Thomas Parker.
Lieutenant-Colonel, James Patton Preston, of Montgomery
county.
ITajor. David Campbell, of Washington county.
Captains :
John Gibson, Archibald C. Rando]j)h,
James Charlton, Thomas P. Moore,
Charles Page, A. L. Madison,
Willoughby Morgan, James Paxton.
Lieutenants :
L. B. Willis, J. G. Camp,
Lockville Jackson, Angns McDonald,
Bichard P. Fletcher, P. G. Kite.
Second Lieutenants :
Russell Harrison, William Stone,
John Keys, John Kenny,
Matthew Hughes, John Towles,
0. W. Callis, Robert Houston.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 449
Ensigns :
J. W. McGavock, Isaac Keys,
John Shonimo, Bailey Bruce,
Philip Wagoner, W. C. Parker,
Thomas B. Barton.
On the 10th of April, 1813, President Madison issued an order
for 12,000 men for the regular army from Virginia, which men
were to be taken from the several militia regiments of the State.
To make up this number, the Seventeenth Brigade was required
to furnish 488 men, of which Captain Francis Preston's rifle com-
pany was to. furnish fifty men, Captain T upper's company, of Mont-
gomery county, fifty men; Captain Hale's rifle company, Grayson
county, fifty men; Captain Steffey's company, of Wythe county,
fifty men.
It is probable that the forces thus levied accompanied Major
David Campbell to Winchester. Upon the arrival of Major David
Campbell at Winchester, he immediately proceeded to assist in drill-
ing and recruiting the regiment, which regiment, on the 29th day
of August, 1812, marched for the lakes of Canada, wdiere it was
placed under the command of Alexander Smyth, of Wythe comity,
who, on the 6th day of July, 1812, was commissioned by the Presi-
dent of the United States, inspector-general with the rank of briga-
dier. General Smyth, on the 15th day of June, 1812, was in
Washington city, and addressed a letter to a gentleman in Abing-
don in which he stated :
"It is wdiispered, and I have no doubt of the fact, that to-day
the Senate passed the bill froui the House of Eepresentatives for
declaring war against Great Britain.
"The recruits west of the Blue Eidge in Virginia are intended
for the North. Considering this circumstance together with the
land bounty, tlie abolition of corporal punishment, &c., I shall
expect the recruiting service to succeed well."
Upon the first intimation of war, many of the citizens of this
county immediately volunteered their services to their country.
In March of the year 1812, a volunteer troop of cavalry was
formed within the bounds of the One Hundred and Pifth Eegiment,
and was officered by Captain William Duff and Lieutenant Samuel
Brown.
450 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1788.
On the olst day of March the following order was published by
the officer of the troop :
ATTENTION !
WASHINGTON VOLUNTEEE TEOOP OE CAVALRY.
"Our muster, of course, is at Abingdon, on Saturday the 11th
day of April, when you are to appear in uniform with your arms
and accoutrements in good order, at 11 o'clock A. M., with six
rounds of blank cartridges, for the purpose of exercising.
"At a crisis like the present, when war is more than anticipated,
we presume your patriotic spirit will not suffer a single member
to be delinquent.
"By order of the Captain.
"SAMUEL BROWN, Lieut.
"March 31, 1812."
The next order that we find in regard to this company was
issued on September 12, 1812, and was as follows : ?
"ATTENTION !"
"THE VOLUNTEER TROOP OF CAVALRY, attached to
the One Hundred and Fifth Regiment. You are hereby requested
to attend private muster at Abingdon, on the last Saturday in this
month, for the purpose of exercising and for other purposes that
the times demand.
"SHOW YOUR VALOR— BE PATRIOTIC.
"WM. DUFF, Captain."
On the 25th day of April, 1812, the following advertisement
appeared in the Political Prospect:
"THE TOCSIN OF PATRIOTISM.
"A MEETING of the young men of the county of Washington is
requested at the tavern of Mr. Soule's, on Saturday, the 2d day of
May, 1812. The object of the meeting is of the highest importance,
and it is desired and hoped, that every young man, whose bosom
burns with the holy fire of patriotism and feels the multiplied
wrongs of his country, will be present at this meeting.
"April 23, 1812."
The young men of the county met, pursuant to this notice, and
organized a company of infantry, and selected Peter Mayo captain,
to wliich was given the name of tlie Light Infantry Company, and
(v-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 451
passed a resohition appointing the IGtli day of May, 1812, as the
time and the Bell Tavern in Abingdon as the place of meeting to
select non-commissioned officers, and directed their captain to issue
his orders accordingly, which order was as follows:
"INFANTEY !
"Pursuant to a resolution entered into on Saturday last, notice is
hereby given, that there will be a meeting of the Light Infantry
Company on that day two weeks, precisely at 11 o'clock, at the Bell
Tavern in the town of Abingdon, for the purpose of choosing non-
commissioned officers, and of making othgr arrangements for the
regulation of the company. All those whose names are enrolled on
the list of the said company are requested to attend without fail,
as the objects of the meeting are of much importance to its pros-
perity. Those who feel a disposition to become members of the
company may do so by attending and enrolling themselves on that
day.
"P. MAYO, Captain.
"]Sr. B. — It is requested that all those who have guns of any
description will- bring them on that day."
On the 15th day of June, 1813, Captain Spotswood Henry, of the
Second Eegiment of Artillery, U. S. A., arrived in Abingdon, and
proceede 1 to recruit men for the regular army, and by the 6th day
of September, 1813, he had recruited a full company of regulars.
The Political Prospect, in speaking of the departure of Captain
Henry and his recniits from Abingdon, says :
"On Sunday last Captain Spotswood Henry marched from this
place for Philadelphia with a full company of regulars enlisted in
Abingdon and the surrounding country. Captain Henry was not
quite three months enlisting his men, and we venture to say no
officer in the same period of time ever enlisted as fine a company
of men, most of them young, active and strong, a large majority of
them sober and men of good character. We believe it may be said
with truth that during their stay in Abingdon their conduct (with
a few exceptions) has been good, infinitely better than that of any
other body of new recruits we ever saw. Captain Henry, though
a new officer, seems to possess the art of being both loved and feared
by his men. He is true to^ the cause he is engaged in, and we trust,
452 Soulliwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
should he ever be brought in contact with the enemy, lie will not
disgrace his country.
"They were accompanied on their road about two miles, by almost
every citizen of Abingdon, and after partaking of some refresh-
ments at Captain W. Jones', they continued their march, accom-
panied by the prayers of all who witnessed their departure, for
their success and happiness."
The services of the companies organized by Captains Mayo and
Dulf were not accepted by the government, and it is very probable
that numbers of their men enlisted with Captain Heni-y. I can-
not definitely ascertain what disposition was made of Captain
Henry's troops upon their arrival at Philadelphia, but it can be
stated with some certainty, that most of the recruits from South-
western Virginia, in the regular army, were in the Second Regi-
ment of Artillery and the Twelfth and Twentieth Kegiments of
Infantry, commanded by Colonels Parker and Pandolph and Gen-
erals Smythe and Van Eensselaer.
No further efforts were made to organize and equip additional
troops from this county this year, so far as I can ascertain.
In April of the year 1813, in the contest for member of Con-
gress from this district and for members of the Legislature from
this county. Honorable Daniel Sheffey was elected a member of
Congress, defeating the Honorable Edward Campbell, of Hall's
Bottom, by a considerable majority, Campbell's majority in Wash-
ington county being seventeen. The vote for members of the House
of Delegates from this county was as follows :
Colonel Francis Preston, 341
Captain Eeuben Bradley, 314
Captain James Meek, 266
Mr. Jolin Fulton, 151
On the 24th day of February, 1812, the General Assembly of Vir-
ginia appointed the following persons, for Washington county, to
conduct the presidential election to be held in November of this
year: Francis Preston, James White, David Campbell, Benja-
min Estill, Francis Smith, John Preston and George Dixon.
But, for some reason, the coinmissioners thus appointed did not
act, as will appear from the following notice:
Washington County, 1771-1870. 453
To the Freeholders of the County of Washington.
Citizens :— You are hereby notified to attend at your court-house,
on the first Monday in November next; for the purpose of voting
for twenty-five electors to CHOOSE A PEESIDENT AND
VICE-PEESIDENT of the UNITED STATES. At this import-
ant crisis of affairs, it is hoped tliat no citizen of Washington will
show the smallest backwardness in coming forward on that day with
a determination of supporting our Eepublican ticket.
FEANCIS PEESTON,
HENEY ST. JOHN DIXON,
EOBEET PEESTON,
Commissionel-s.
September 19, 1812.
At the election held in November, being the first hotly-contested
presidential election in the history of our country, the counties of
Southwestern Virginia, between James Madison and DeWitt Clin-
ton, the contesting candidates, voted as follows :
Madison. Clinton.
Washington, 355 80
Lee, 67 00
Montgomery, 181 58
Wythe, 129 19
Eussell, 126 00
Giles, 60 04
Grayson, 73 45
Early in this year Captain Henry Dixon organized a corps
of volunteer riflemen, which was attached to the First Battalion
of the One Hundred and Fifth Virginia Eegiment of Militia.
Many of the young men living in the vicinity of Abingdon joined
this corps, the lieutenant of which was George W. Dixon.
The patriotism of the people was unbounded, and it was arranged
to celebrate the Fourth of July, 1812, at Abingdon, in a manner in
accord with the sentiments of the people. The citizens of the upper
end of the county likewise celebrated the day in a manner befitting
patriots.
The 4th of July, 1812.
*"This day was celebrated by Captain Dixon's Company of Vol-,
*PoliticarProspects.
454 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
imteer Eiflemen and a number of the citizens of tlie town of Abing-
don with their accustomed conviviality and mirth. Tlie declaration
of war had fired the breasts of that band of citizen soldiers with an
unusual portion of pride of country, and they consequently
expressed with great freedom their determination to rally to the
standard of their country in defence of its rights, liberties and laws.
Captain Mayor's company of infantry were invited by the rifle-
men to join in the entertainments of the day, in which they dis-
played an equal degree of patriotic ardor and love of country.
The rifle company met at the court-house at 8 o'clock in the
morning, and, after performing several evolutions and firing a
number of rounds, marched to Captain Dixon's quarters, and fired
three rounds, then to the eastern extremity of the tow^n and did the
same, then, returning to the court-house, were dismissed until ten
o'clock, when they again assembled, at which period they were
joined by Captain Mayo's company of infantry. After mustering
through the town and performing several evolutions and firing,
which occupied until one o'clock, they were marched to the camping
ground at Piper's Spring, where they partook of an elegant dinner
furnished by Mr. E. Soule.
Colonel Francis Preston was called to the chair and Colonel
James King chosen vice-president.
After the cloth was removed the following toasts were drunk with
great cordiality of sentiment.
1st. The Day. May its celebration only cease with our national
existence.
S. The President. May he continue to deserve the confidence of
a free, enlightened people.
3d. Congress. In declaring war against Great Britain, they have
echoed the voice of the nation.
4th. The Heads of Departments. May the spirit of '76 animate
their councils.
5th. The Memory of AVashington. May we look upon his like
again.
6th. The Venerable Clinton. He will still live in the hearts of
his countrymen.
7th. The Heroes of the Revolution. May their posterity inherit
their virtue and their valor.
Washington Countij, 1777-1870. 455
8th. The Union of the States. Liberty's surest pledge — Hail
Columbia.
9th. The army of the United States — Composed of freemen, it
cannot fail to merit the glorious boon of independence.
10th. The navy of the United States. The choicest sons of ISTep-
tune will brave every danger in defence of their liberty.
11th. The volunteers of the times. Hailed by your countrymen
as the gallant defenders of their dearest rights.
12th. The Heroes of Tippecanoe have set their countrymen a
glorious example — Soldiers return.
13th. The Militia of the United States will defendHheir rights
when assailed by tyrants.
llth. The Tree of Liberty, may its branches ever succor its sup-
porters.
15th. John Eandolph, D. Sheffey, &c. May their constituents
furnish them with a suit of Tor}^ uniform, tar and feathers ! Eogue's
March !
16th. The 18th of June, 1812. The day that adds solidarity to
the foundation of our independence.
17th. The Impressed American Seamen. May they return to
the bosom of their country, with their hands imbrued in the blood of
their enemies.
18th. The Fair Daughters of Columbia. Their smiles will reward
their defenders.
The volunteer toasts were very numerous_, but we have been able
to collect only a few of them.
VOLUNTEEES.
By Colonel Francis Preston — God bless these United States —
May he who attempts their disunion meet the fate of Percival.
By Colonel James King — All hands and all hearts.
By Captain Dixon — Our war — May it lead us to conquest and
glory, and return us to peace and haj)piness.
By Lieutenant Dixon — The Eising Company of Light Infantry
of the One Hundred and Fifth Virginia Eegiment — May success
attend the soldiers of this union.
By Captain Eohert Craig — Our Government — May they be decis-
ive in their councils, and every party spirit done away, and may the
spirit of '76 animate every breast.
456 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1780.
Our Manufactures — May they be perse-
vered in until tliey make us completely independent of all other
nations.
By Mr. L. L. Henderson — The Commerce of the United States —
Like an April shower, the day clouds for a moment, but to return
with resplendent vigor.
By Andrew Eussell, Esq. — Neutral Rights — May all governments
be compelled tO' respect them.
By Mr. Isaac Whitaker — Randolph, Sheffey &c. — May they
be compelled to eat the crumbs that fall from republican tables.
"Saturday last being the anniversary of our national independ-
ence, a number of inhabitants of the upper end of this county col-
lected at Seven-Mile ford for the purpose of celebrating the day
in some manner, however plain and simple. The fore pai-t of the
day was occupied by Captain Hopkins in exercising his military
students; in the evening the company retired to a spring convenient
to the ford, where they partook of an elegant barbecue which had
been prepared for them. After dinner the following toasts were
given :
By Captain William Love — The Fourth of July — May it ever be
held in grateful remembrance by the free-born sons of America.
Two guns.
By Captain William Byars— The Declaration of War by Con-
gress on the 18th of June last, against Great Britain — May it
progress with successive victories on our part, and may it ultimately
procure us that justice for which we contend. Three guns.
By Major William Davis — The Spirit of '76— May it inspire the
breast of every free-born American with such zeal as may support
the dignity of the present measures of our general government.
Four guns.
By Captain Hopkins — The patriots of the United States Army —
May they always be actuated by virtue and crowned with victory.
Four guns.
By Captain George Byars — May the American eagle subdue the
British lion. Four guns.
By Mr. Parker Smith — The memory of Captain Nathan Hale,
who fell a martyr in the cause of his country witli the firm intre-
pidity of an American and the amiable resignation of a Christian
Washington Covniy, 1777-1870. 457
hero — May his worth and memory be enshrined in the hearts of his
countrymen as long as we enjoy that liberty and independence for
which he freely gave up his life. Five guns.
By Mr. John Phaup — The Virtuous Sons of Freedom — May they
never taste the bitter apples of affliction. Four guns.
By Mr. Campbell Anderson — The Federal Compact — May it
{-tand firm and unshaken as the pillars of heaven. Two guns.
By Mr. Pleasant Smith — The Honest Farmer — May his industry
always be rewarded with an abundant harvest. Five guns.
By Captain Andrew Edmiston — The tyranny of Great Britain.
May it be completely subdued and American independence reign
forever. Three guns.
By John Byars, Esq. — General Montgomery — May we never want
such men to march to the plains of Abraham, to teach the enemies
of our free and happy country that we will not submit to the insult?
heretofore practised on us. Five guns.
By Mr. Eobert Beattie — The Memory of General Washington —
May his courage and patriotism be an example to our generals of
the present day. Four guns.
By Mr. James Eobinson — James Madison, President of i.hs
United States. Two guns.
By Mr. Daniel Hughes — May we all stand imited and fii-mlv
.agree to rally around the standard of sweet liberty. Two guns.
By Captain James Cole — The Tree of Liberty — May it continue
to produce unfading blossoms, and may its branches extend ^o the
remotest part of our wide extended territory. Five guns.
By Mr. A. K. Love — Thomas Jefferson — May his virtues be an
example to his cnnntrymen, and may his patriotic services be held
in grateful remembrance. Four guns.
This account of the celebration of the 4th of July by the citizens
of Washington county is obtained from a copy of a paper published
in Abingdon at that time, and, if we may judge from this account,
the sentiments of the people of the county must have been strongly
in favor of war ; and their enthusiastic devotion to their country
unexcelled.
John Gibson, a citizen of Abingdon and a partner in business with
Connally Findlay, was, on March 13, 1812, commissioned a captain
in the regular army and was assigned to the Twelfth Regiment of
458 Sonthtvest Virginia, 174G-1786.
Infantry; as a result, a dissolution of partnership between himself
and Findlay was rendered necessary, and soon thereafter the fol-
lowing notice appeared in the Abingdon paper :
NOTICE!
"The partnership between the two persons involved,
Of Gibson and Findlay, is this day dissolved ;
With hearts smooth and easy right onward we went.
And this day we part by mutual consent.
All those who have claims come to Findlay for pay.
And those who owe us must not long delay.
But to pay their accounts, I hope they'll agree,
And not trouble Gibson, but pay them tO' me;
The business henceforward I mean to conduct,
And all my good customers freely instruct;
That all sorts of saddles, neat boots and fine shoes.
They may come and examine and buy what they choose ;
With saddle-bags, bridles and best tanned leather,
Which shall brave the hard clods and defy the bad weather ;
And pray, gentle friends, let me tell you besides,
111 purchase your skins and buy all your hides,
FoT which I wall pay you the cash in a trice,
For every article at market price;
And now you may think what I say is but fun.
You all may trust me, l)ut, faith, I'll trust none.
"JOHN GIBSON,
"CONNALLY FINDLAY."
On Saturday, the 2d day of May, 1812, the settlements on the
western extremity of this county were visited by a most tremendous
hail-storm. Eobert Preston suffered the loss of an extensive crop
of rye and much other damage done to his plantation. Several
others in the same neighborhood suffered severely. On the Jones-
borough road, was the greatest loss suffered, though Joseph Gray
and others were severely handled. Large trees were torn up by the
roots and fences destroyed in all directions. Some of the largest
of the hail that fell on Saturday was gathered on Sunday and
carried to Abingdon, where it was still as large as the largest nut-
meg.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 459
The track of this cyclone and hail-storm was perceptible as late
as the year 1882.
This county was again visited by very severe hail-stornis in the
year 1814.
The American army, stationed near Buffalo, experienced some
pretty hard fighting abont this time, and the soldiers from this
county bravely maintained the reputation of our people. In the
month of October, they had a skirmish near Fort Erie, an account
of which is given by Major David Campbell, in a letter written to
a friend in Abingdon, and is as follows:
"We last night took two vessels from the British, when they
were at anchor immediately under the guns of Fort Erie. The
vessels were taken by volunteers from our brigade and some sailors
in two row-boats, and 150 men. Our men rowed alongside, fas-
tened their boats to the ship under fire from her, they alsoi firing,
and boarded her sword in hand — we have lost eight men — the
British number not known, it is supposed, however, 50 to 40. One
of the vessels was immediately brought safe to shore. Her cargo has
been taken out, and is estimated by General Smyth at $150,000.
The other they ran aground in the river near a small island— she
is the Brig. Adam, laden with 2,000 stand of arms taken from Hull,
and the cannon taken there also. This morning early a messenger
came to camp and informed General Smyth, that 2,000 British had
landed. We immediately paraded and marched to the scene. The
cannon was roaring from both shores. When we got there we found
no enemy on this side. They had been at the vessel nigh the island,
but had left her. We left the Fifth and part of the Eighteenth
regiments to protect the vessel and returned. They have made two
other attempts during the day to retake the vessel, and have been
completely repulsed with great loss. We have not, since morning,
lost a man. It has given me great pleasure to' retake the arms
taken at Detroit. We have also retaken thirty or forty prisoners,
our brave countrymen taken there.'*
Among the plunder captured by the American forces at this time,
was a bell, from one of the British vessels, which bell was brought by
General Smyth to his home in Wytheville, and by him given to
^ythe county to be used as a court-house bell. This bell is at this
460 Soiithirest Virginia, 17Jt6-1786.
day in the old court-house at Wytheville, in an excellent state of
preservation, and bears the following inscription :
"De Welfahrt van Het. Schip.
De I. Iffrauw. Elisabeth-
Voor De Heeren-
Casper, Voice & Compagni-
Captain Daniel Joachim. Eahlap
Anno 1781.
Me-Ioh : iven-in Hamburg.'^
Which being translated, is:
"The welfare of the ship.
The Lady Elisabeth.
For the Sirs.
Casper, Voice & Co.
Captain Daniel Joachim Eahlap.
Anno 1781.
'Me' loh' iven' in Hamburg."
On the 10th of October, 1812, the volunteer rifle company, com-
manded by Captain Henry Dixon, was ordered to assemble at Cap-
tain Eobert Davis's, which order was as follows:
"ATTENTION !
"The volunteer rifle corps attached to the First Battalion, One
Huiidred and Fifth Virginia Eegiment, are directed to attend the
regimental muster at Captain E. Davis's on Friday, 16th instant,
(completely armed and e<]uipped) at 11 o'clock A. M. Each mem-
ber will furnish himself with ammunition and one day's rations.
"GEOEGE W. DIXON, Lieut.
"Comdt. V. E. C. 105tli regt/'
At this meeting, the following order was published :
"COMPANY OEDEES ! ATTENTION EIFLEMEN !
"The Battalion Court of Inquiry for the assessment of fines in the
First Battalion of the One Hundred and Fifth Virginia Eegiment,
is ordered to meet at Mr. James Crow's on Friday the 23d instant.
The regimental court will assembly at Captain Eobert Davis's on
the 5th day of November next, at which times and places, excuses to
offer for delinquencies, may attend. A correct list of all the delin-
Washington County^ 1777-1S70. 461
quents in the Rifle Corps will be left with the printer of the Political
Prospect;, for the inspection of its members.
"G. W. DIXON.
"Comdt. V. R. C. 1st Bat. 105th R.
"October 17, 1812."
And on the 28th day of February, 1813, Captain Dixon issued the
following order:
A/ OLUNTEER RIFLEMEK.
The members of the Volunteer Rifle Company of the One Hun-
dred and Fifth Regiment will punctually attend at the court-house
in Abingdon, on Saturday the 6th day of March, without uniform,
on business of importance.
H. DIXON", Captain.
This company of riflemen were not called into service until the
summer or fall of 1814.
On the 20th of April, 1813, Lieutenant Peter C. Jolmston, of the
regular army began recruiting in the town of Abingdon, but what
success attended his efforts I am unable to ascertain.
Captain L. L. Henderson had organized a company of artillery in
the upper end of Washington county, and an order was issued effect-
ing this company on May 3, 1813, which order was as follows:
"ATTENTION !
"The members of the artillery company commanded by Captain
L. L. Henderson will attend a battalion muster at Mr. James Crow's
on Frida}^, the 28th of this month.
"WILLIAM SMITH,
"Lieutenant of Artillery."
This company was not mustered into service until the year 1814.
On the 12th of March, 1813, Major David Campbell was pro-
moted and became Lieutenant-Colonel of the Twentieth Regiment
United States army, and participated in the arduous campaigns
on the St. Lawrence and near Lake Champlain, which position
he resigned on the 28th of January, 1814.
Upon his return to his home in Virginia, he again entered the
service of his State, as aide de camp to Governor James Barbour,
and rendered valuable assistance in organizing the large force of
462 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
troops called into service in the neighborliood of Kichmond and
Petersburg, in the summer of 1814.
The General Assembly at its session in the year 1814, provided for
the raising of ten thousand troops, and, under this law. Colonel
Campbell was elected general of the Third Brigade.
On the 35th of January, 1815, he was appointed colonel of the
Third Virginia Cavalry, but was afterwards transferred to the Fifth
Eegiment of Cavalry.
Under the law enacted by the General Assembly in 1814, most
of the companies from Washington county proceeded to Riclunond,
which point they reached about the 9th day of September, when
information reached Eichmond that the enemy had landed on the
Northern Neck. The forces from Washington county formed a
part of the Third Brigade, and upon receipt of the news that the
enemy had landed, three companies of riflemen and one troop of
cavalry, under the command of Colonel Coleman, were ordered to
the Northern Neck.
This force marched to the place directed and were out sixteen
days. They marched day and night to attack the enemy, but failed
to overtake them. They frequently encamped on the same ground a
few hours after the enemy had marched. Upon this expedition, the
first encampment was one mile from Richmond, at Camp Mitchell.
About this time the militia was transferred from the State's ser-
vice to the service of the United States, to serve six months. A por-
tion of the Washington county militia marched for the city of
Washington a few days after Colonel Coleman marched for the
Northern Neck, and, upon the return of Coleman's forces to Fort
Mitchell, the field and staff officers of his command were ordered to
Washington city. The troop of cavalry and riflemen were ordered to
Charles City courthouse, from which point they passed to Camp
Snowden near Snowden's Iron Works, Maryland, at which place
the troops were newly equipped with guns and ammunition, from
which point they marched to Camp Cross-Eoads, Maryland, where
tliey were encamped on the 15th of November. At this point our
forces were commanded by General James Breckenridge as briga-
dier, and Major-General Pegram. The health of the Washington
companies was fairly good, although 109 men were sick on the morn-
ing of the 14th of November, 1814. A very few of the number were
dangerously sick.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 463
A number of the Washington county troops, in the fall of this
year and the spring of 1815, marched to Norfolk, under the com-
mand of General Francis Preston and other militia officers, but as to
their services I cannot obtain any information.
It is lamentable that no record has been preserved of the services
of our countrymen upon this expedition to Norfolk.
We publish in the appendix to this book, an official statement
of the militia officers of Washington county, for the years 1810-
1815; which gives, bej^ond queston, authentic information of the
officers, with thc'ir rank, during this war.
Peace was proclaimed by the President of the United States on
the 18th day of February, 1815, one month and ten days subsequent
to the battle of New Orleans.
With the exception of the battle of New Orleans, the record of
this war, as far as it ejff ected the land fighting, is humiliating indeed,
to the average American citizen.
The failure of our military expeditions during this war must not
be attributed to the want of patriotism or valor on the part of O'Ur
people, but was due to the ideas of our rulers, none of whom, either
by principle or practice, was fitted to conduct a successful war.
In this war Colonel James Campliell died in the service at Mobile,
Alabama, and Colonel Jolm B. Campbell fell at the battle of Cliip-
pewa, where he commanded the right wing of the army under Gen-
eral Winfield Scott. Both were sons of Colonel Arthur Campbell,
the "Father of our County." Colonel Arthur Campbell himself died
at Ids home, the present location of Middlesborough, Kentucky, in
the year 1811, and his body was buried at that place according to
the directions of his will, which is of record in the county clerk's
office of this county.
When Middlesborough, Kentucky, first attracted the attention of
the business people of this country, and great developments were in
progress at that point, the grave of Colonel Campbell was discovered
in an out-of-the-way place, and his remains were removed by his
Tennessee relatives, and the grave newly marked.'
The grave of Colonel Arthur Campbell was marked with an iron
slab, upon which the following inscription was found :
"Sacred to the memory of Colonel Arthur Campbell, who was
bom in Augusta county, Virginia, November 3, 1743, old style, and
after a well-spent life, as his last moments did and well could
4G4 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
approve, of sixty-seven years eight months and twenty-live days,
ere a constitution preserved by rigid temperance, and otherwise
moral and healthy, could but with reluctance consent, the lamp was
blown out by the devouring effects of a cancer on the 8th day of
August, 1811, leaving a widow, six sons and six daughters to mourn
his loss and emulate his virtues.
Her© lies entombed a Eevolutionary sage.
An ardent patriot of the age.
In erudition great, and useful knowledge to scan
In philanthrophy hospitable, the friend of man.
As a soldier brave.
Virtue his morality.
As a commander prudent.
His religion charity.
He practised temperance
To preserve his health.
He used industry to acquire wealth.
He studied physic to avoid disease.
He studied address to please.
He studied himself to complete his plan.
For his greatest study was to study man.
His statue tall.
His person portly.
His features handsome,
His manners courtly.
Sleep, honored sire.
In the realms of rest.
In doing justice to thy memory
A son is blest.
A son inheriting in full thy name
One who aspires to all thy fame.
COLONEL ARTHUK CAMPBELL."
At a meeting of the General Assembly in the fall of the year 1814,
a new county was formed from the territory of Lee, Washington
and Russell counties, to which was given the name of Scott
county, in honor of General Winfield Scott. The boundaries
of the new county as fixed by the Act of Assembly, of date
IsTovember ^'4, J814, were as follows: Beginning at the head of
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 4G5
Eeedy creek, where the wagon road crosses the same in Washington
county; thence down the Tennessee line to the south fork of the
Clinch river ; thence nortliward passing the Flag Pond to the top of
Powell's mountain, in Lee county; thence along it to the Eussell
county line; thence along the Eussell county line to the Kentucky
line; thence along Cumberland mountain to the head of Guesses'
river; thence down it to Clinch river; thence to Kendrick's Gap,
in Clinch mountain; thence by the western end of Samuel Hen-
sley's plantation to the beginning.
The boundaries of Scott county as thus given were altered at the
same session of the General Assembly.
By the same Act, John McKenney, Eeuben McCully and James
Wallen, of Lee; Jonathan Wood, Samuel Eitchie and James Moss
of Eussell; Andrew McHenry, Jacob Severs and Abraham Fulker-
son, ol Washinglon county, were appointed commissioners to .iileet
a permanent iocation for the county seat of Scott county.
The first County Court of Scott county assembled at the hou>!e
of Benjamin T. Hollans, at Big Moccasin Gap, and organized with
tbe following oflScers:
Justices of the Peace.
John Anderson, '^ William George,
Samuel Eitchie, Eeuben McCully,
James Gibson, James Albert,
John McKenney, John Berry,
John Montgomery, James Moss,
Jacob Severs, Eichard Fulkerson,
Benj. T. Hollans, Isaac Skillem,
James Wallen.
Sheriff, John Anderson.
Deputy Sheriffs, Isaac Anderson and Isaac Skillem.
Clerk, William H. Carter.
Deputy Clerk, Alfred McKenney.
County Surveyor, Jonathan Wood.
Commonwealth's Attorney, Andrew McHenry.
County Militia.
County Lieutenant, Henry Livingston.
Lieutenant-Colonel, John Wood.
Majors, Eobert Gibson and Isaac Anderson.
466 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Captains of Militia.
Iiieliard Fiilkerson, George George,
John McHenry, Hiram Kilgore,
William Fugate, Jolm Berry,
Cornelius Fugate; James Watson.
Jjieutenants of Militia;
Jbnas Wolfe^ Eobert Spear^
Goldman Davidson^ Elijah Carter^
Wood Osborn, Isaac Low,
Jeremiah Culbertson.
Ensigns of Militia.
joiin Martin, Daniel Wallen^
Clinton Godsey, James Gibson, Jr.,
Meshaek Stacy, George McConnell,
William Bickley.
The commissioners appointed to ascertain the proper place
for holding the courts and erecting the public buildings for the
new county made their report on May 9, 1815. The lands donated
by James Davidson, Sr., the present site of Estillville, or Gate City,
were selected, and the public buildings erected thereon; and tliis is
still the county seat of Scott county.
By this Act Washington county lost a considerable extent of val-
iiable territory and many valuable citizens.
In the year 1816, a convention assembled at Staunton, for the
23urpose of devising measures for obtaining a Constitutional Con-
vention for the State. Thirty-five counties west of the Blue Eidge
were represented in this convention, but if Washington county had
a representative present, I cannot ascertain his name ; but the object
of the convention affected Washington county as much as any of
the territory west of the mountain.
The object in view in amending the Constitution of the State was
to correct the inequalities in the representation of the different sec-
tions of the State in the General Assembly of Virginia.
This convention, by a vote of 61 to 7, adopted a memorial in
favor of a convention to amend the Constitution.
The country west of the Blue Eidge at that time contained a
white population of two hundred and twelve tliousand and thirty-six,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 467
with four senators; while the territory east of the inountain con-
tained a white population of one hundred and sixty-two thousand
seven hundred and seventeen and had thirteen senators.
General James Breckenridge was elected president of this conven-
tion and Erasmus Strihbling, secretary. This subject has been agi-
tated in Virginia from the earliest time, but the people of western
A'irginia have never succeeded in obtaining a fair representation
in the General Assembly of Virginia, and, to-day, the inequality of
representation between the two sections is greater than it has been
at any time heretofore in our history; considering the wealth and
population of Western Virginia.
In the election of members to the General Assembly from Wash-
ington county, in the spring of the year 1819, the certificates of
election were awarded to Peter Maj'o and William Poston. The elec-
tion was contested by William Preston Thompson. The depositions
were taken by Thomas Edmondson, William Snodgrass, Eeuben
Bradley, John Goodson and Charles Tate, commissioners appointed
by the County Court of Washington county for that purpose, and
upon the final hearing of the case in the General Assembly, Mayo
was unseated and Thompson awarded the certificate, but in the fol-
lowing year Peter Mayo and Nathaniel Dryden defeated Thompson
by a good majority.
On the first day of July, 1819, the Coimty Court of Washington
county tried a negro by the name of Sam for larceny, found him
guilty and ordered him to be burnt in the hand in the presence of
the court, and that he receive ten lashes on his bare back at the
public whipping-post.
By Act of the General Assembly of Virginia approved March 10,
1819, a voting precinct was established at the house of James Meek,
on the north side of the middle fork of the Holston river in the
upper end of this county. From the organization of the county
until this time, every voter in the county was required to attend the
election at Abingdon, the only voting precinct in the county.
In the month of May, 1819, John Preston, Jr., was commissioned
colonel of the One Hundred and Fifth Eegiment of infantry, and
James White, lieutenant-colonel of the same regiment. William P.
Thompson was commissioned lieutenant-colonel of the Seventieth
Begiment, while David Campbell was commissioned colonel of the
Third Eegiment of cavalry of the militia of Virginia, and in the
4C8 Southwest Virginia, lH 1^6-17 86.
following year Eobert Beattie was commissioned major of the Sev-
entieth Kegiment.
The number of tithables in Washington county in 1820 was 3,137,
and the proportion of the tax due from each tithable was fifty cents.
The taxes collected from the people in the years 1819-1830 so fai-
exceeded the expenditures of the county that no taxes were levied
for the year 1821.
On the 15th of May, 1821, the County Court of Washington
county entered the following order in regard to the width of the
roads of the county.
"Ordered that the public roads of this county be of the following
widths, to-wit: The main Island road, the main Kentucky road,
the Wataga road below Abingdon, the Blountvillo road, the Kussel]
road by Michael Fleenor's, the main Saltworks road from Abingdon,
the Eiver road above the Saltworks, through Lyon's Gap, remain as
at present established, thirty-three feet wide each, and that all the
other public wagon roads in this county be twenty feet wide."
By order of the county court of date June 22, 1820, a new road
was ordered to be established, leading from near Smith's cabin (now
Greendale), to the north fork of Holston, said road to be eiglit
feet wide and to be located at or near the "Lawyer's Path."*
Colonel James White at this time was operating several iron fur-
naces in this county and in Johnson county, Tennessee. A consid-
erable forge known as "White's Grove Forge," and a furnace known
as "Elizabeth Furnace," had been established on the north fork of
the Holston river, some miles apart, and business among the citizens
of the county was excellent, and had been so since 1815.
It is to be regretted, tliat the minute books of the County Court
of Washington county covering the period from 1821 to 1837 were
destroyed in 1864. For this period I have been able to gather but
few facts of historical importance, and such as I have gathered are
principally from the Acts of the General Assembly of Virginia.
By Act of the General Assembly of Virginia, of date January 15,
1823, Henry Bowen, John Smith and John Cecil were appointed
commissioners to locate and open a wagon road from the Kentucky
line on the north fork of Sandy river to the Eichlands in Tazewell
county,
*The early name of the road from Abingdon leading through Little
Moccasin Gap.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 469
In 1823 a dispute arose as to the correct location of the boundary
line between Washington and Eussell counties from Hayter's Gap,
east to the Tazewell line, and the General Assembly on the 28th
day of February, 1824, authorized the county courts of Washington
and Eussell counties to appoint one commissioner each, to run and
mark the line between the two counties, but, for some reason which
I cannot now ascertain, the boimdary line was not run.
On the 26th day of January, 1825, the General Assembly of Vir-
ginia appointed John H. Fulton, of Washington county, and George
W. Johnson, of Eussell county, commissioners to run and mark the
line between the counties, beginning on the top of Clinch moun-
tain, wliere the road from Abingdon to Lebanon crosses the same at
Hayter's Gap, and from thence east to the Tazewell line. Pursuant
to this order, the line was run and marked in the same year.
By an Act of the General Assembly of Virginia of date, January
4, 1826, it was declared that all that part of the counties of Wash-
ington and Wythe known by the name of Poor Valley within the
following bounds, to-wit:
Beginning on the top of Clinch mountain at the highest point
opposite to the plantation of Major John Ward ; thence a south
course until it strikes the top of Little Piney mountain in the
county of Washington, and with the top of said mountain, running
east to Wilson's Gap, in the county of Wythe, thence north to the
Tazewell line, shall be a part of the county of Tazewell.
By an Act of the General Assembly the third election precinct in
this county was established at the house of John Shaver, at Three
Springs, in the lower end of this county, on January 2, 1829.
By the year 1828, the sentiment of the people of Washington
county was decidedly democratic ; and to such an extent that in the
presidential election of that year. General Andrew Jackson received
every vote cast in the county, except thirteen.
By the beginning of the year 1830, a healthy disposition
had grown up among the people in favor of public improve-
ments, and the General Assembly of Virginia, on the 19th day of
February, 1830, incorporated the Abingdon Turnpike Company and
authorized the building of a turnpike road from the forks of the
road west of William Carpenter's to the forks in Abram Bradley's
lane. This company was authorized to receive subscriptions, and
the Act of the Assembly authorized and directed the following citi-
470 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
zens to solicit and receive subscriptions to this enterprise at the
town of Abingdon : James White, David Campbell, Francis Pres-
ton, John M. Preston, John H. Fulton, Charles C. Johnston, Peter
J. Branch, Benjamin Estill, John I^. Humes, John Gibson, Andrew
Russell and Abram Bradle3^
While I have no evidence of the fact, it is reasonable to believe
that this effort to build a turnpike road in Washington coimty was
successful.
The General Assembly of Virginia, on April 5, 1830, incorporated
the Lynchburg and jSTew River Railroad, the object of which was to
connect Southwestern Virginia with the eastern portion of the State.
The Act of the Assembly incorporating the road authorized public
subscriptions to the enterprise and appointed the following commis-
sioners to solicit and receive subscriptions at iVbingdon: Francis
Preston, Francis Smith, James White, James Campbell, Benjamin
Estill, John H. Fulton, John M. Preston, John C. Greenway,
Charles C. Johnston, Andrew Russell and Charles H. Preston.
This effort to build a railroad was, so far as Southwestern Vii--
ginia was concerned, a failure.
From the date of the convention that assembled at Staunton in
181G to this time, the demand for a convention to revise the Con-
stitution had constantly grown throughout the State. The citizens
of Virginia living west of the mountains were opposed to the basis
established for the exercise of suffrage by the Convention in 1776,
which excluded all persons from voting who were not free-holders.
Another question that presented itself was whether the representa-
tion in the General Assembly should be apportioned on the basis of
the white population, or on the basis of population and property
combined. The citizens of Eastern Virginia favored a restricted
suffrage and an apportionment on the basis of population and
property, wdiile the people west of the mountains favored an un-
restricted suffrage and an apportionment on the basis of popula-
tion alone. From the year 1816 to 1829 these questions were dis-
cussed throughout the State with vehemence, ability and eloquence.
The General Assembly, on the 31st day of January, 1828, submit-
ted to the voters of the State the question of calling a convention,
and in the election that followed 21,896 votes were polled for, and
16,637 against, calling a convention. The convention was accord-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 471
iiigly called, and most hotly contested elections for delegates to this
convention took place throiiglioiit the State.
As a result of the issues involved, this convention was composed of
many of the most brilliant gentlemen througliout the State. It has
l)een said that it is doubtful whether any representative body ever
convened in the world's history, before or since, w^hich included so
nmch talent, eloquence, expei'ience and intellectual power, as did the
convention of 1839-18;J0. In the election of delegates to this con-
vention the State was divided into districts, of which, Washington,
Lee, Scott, Eussell and Tazewell composed one district.
The delegates elected from this district were John B. George, of
Tazewell; Andrew McMillan, of Lee, and Edward Campbell and
William Byars, from Washington. The convention assembled on
October 5, 1829, and remained in session until January, 1830, and
was presided over by James Monroe and Philip P. Barbour.
On the 14th of January the draft of the Constitution was adopted
by the convention and submitted to the people of the Commonwealth
for ratification or rejection.
The vote of the counties of Southwest Virginia upon the ratifi-
cation or rejection of this Constitution was as follows :
For. Against.
Giles, 21 556
Grayson, TO 649
Lee, 330 99
Montgomery, 194 670
Kussell, ./. 86 240 ~
Scott, 155 297
Tazewell, 35 423
Wythe, 41 625
Washington 556 175
The Constitution of 1829-'30 exteaided the right of suffrage to a
considerable extent, but the basis of representation, which was bit-
terly contested in the convention, was but slightly altered, and a
great majority of the citizens of Western Virginia were opposed
to the new Constitution for that reason.
The Constitution was adopted by the people of the State by a
vote of 26,055 for ratification to 15,563 for rejection — a majority
of 10,492 in favor of the Constitution. Thus the people of West-
472 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
ern Virginia were denied an equal representation with the citi-
zens of Eastern Virginia in the representative bodies of the Com-
monwealth.
By Act of the General Assembly of Virginia approved Febru-
ary 23, 1832, a new county was formed from the counties of Wythe
and Washington, to which was given the name of Smyth county.
The boundaries of the new county were as follows: Beginning on
the Main Stage road at a bridge in a hollow at the point where the
spring branch of, Philip Greever, deceased, crosses the same; thence
a direct line passing equi-distant between Preston & King's salt
wells, to the line of Eussell county, and from said point on Main
Stage road aforesaid, where said spring branch crosses the same,
running south 25 degrees east to the southern boundary of Wash-
ington county, and beginning on the Main Stage road leading by
Abingdon and Wythe courthouses, ten miles by said road, from
the line dividing Washington and Wythe counties, running thence
northwest to the northern boundary of Wythe coimty, and south-
east to the southern boundary of Wythe county, the said line
through Wythe county running precisely parallel with the line
aforesaid through Washington county.
The Act establishing this county directed Isaac J. Leftwich, of
Wythe, Edward Fulton, of Washington, and John Campbell, of
Smyth, to run and mark the boundary line of said county.
The Act of Assembly establishing Smyth county directed that
the county court of that county be composed of fifteen justices to
be commissioned by the GoTernor, and directed the first court of
the county to meet at the house of John Thomas on the first Mon-
day in April, 1832.
By this same Act Charles L. Crockett, of Wythe ; John H. Pul-
ton, of Washington ; William Price, of Eussell ; Samuel McCamant,
of Grayson, and Thomas Peery, of Tazewell, were appointed com-
missioners to select a permanent location for the county seat of
said county upon which to erect the necessary public buildings.
This committee selected the present location of Marion as the
county seat of the county.
The first county court of Smyth county assembled at the house
of John Thomas, at the Royal Oak, on Monday, the 2d day of
April, 1833, pursuant to the Act of the General Assembly of Vir-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 473
ginia, at which time the following officers took the oath prescribed
by law and entered upon the discharge of their duties :
Justices of the Peace.
Charles Tate, James Taylor,
Samuel Williams, George W. Davis, "<'
Hatch D. Poston, Joseph Adkins,
Henry B. Thompson, William Porter,
Thompson Adkins, Robert Houston,
Joseph P. Bonham, Abraham B. Trigg,
Isaac Spratt. v
Clerk of the County Court, Robert Beattie.
Deputy Clerk, James F. Pendleton.
Sheriff, Charles Tate.
Commonwealth's Attorney, Charles E. Harrison.
County Surveyor, Charles Taylor.
Coroner, George Byars.
The following lawyers qualified to practise their profession on
the first day of the court : John H. Fulton, David McComas, John
Foster, Isaac J. Leftwich, Charles E. Harrison and Andrew S.
Fulton.
By the formation of this county a large portion of the most val-
uable lands included in the original bounds of Washington county
were lost to the county, and the representation of the county in the
General Assembly was reduced to one member, and the county of
Washington did not send more than one member of the Legislature
to the Grcneral Assembly again until 1853.
This is the last instance that we will have to record of the muti-
lation of the territory of Washington county, although considerable
efforts have been made within the last fifteen years to form a new
county out of parts of Washington, Russell and Scott counties.
The representatives from Washington county in the General
Assembly of Virginia, at the date of the formation of Smyth county,
were John H. Fulton in the Senate, and John Kellar and Thomas
McCulloch in the House of Delegates.
Smyth county was named in honor of General Alexander Smyth,
who served as brigadier-general in the war of 1812, and represented
474 Southwest Virginia, 17JfO-1786.
this district in the Congress of the United States for twelve years,
and died while a member of Congress in the year 1830.
A dispute arose as to the correct location of the boundary Ime
between Washington and Sm}i:h counties in the year 1896, where-
upon the County Court of Washington county appointed W. B.
Robertson, J. G. Breckenridge, James Broady, William Galliher and
John D. Blackwell, commissioners on the part of Washington
county, and the County Court of Smyth county appointed C. D.
Carter, A. F. St. John, T. W. Buchanan and W. IST. McGee, as com-
missioners on the part of Smyth county to^ run said line from
Greever's Bridge near Chilhowie to the Eussell county line.
The commissioners ran said line and filed their report on June
27, 1896. The line as fixed by the report of the commissioners was
marked by a planted stone at Greever's Bridge, and ran from that
point, N. 37 degrees 15 minutes W. to Jamison's Gap, where a sec-
ond stone was planted, and said line was continued on the same
degree to the Russell county line, and stones were planted on the
farm of Vint Thomas, at the Rich Valley road, on Chestnut Ridge,
at Saltville between the salt wells, on both sides of the Holstou
river, on Little mountain, and in Poor Valley to mark said line.*
In the election held in the year 1831 for a representative in the
Congress of the United States, from the Twenty-second Congres-
sional District oi Virginia, composed of the counties of Scott,
Wythe, Lee, Tazewell, Grayson and Washington, the Honorable
Joseph Draper, of the county of Wythe, and the Honorable
Charles C. Johnson, of the county of Washington, were the oppasing
candidates.
Mr. Draper had been elected to fill the unexpired term of General
Alexander Smyth, in the year 1830. Charles C. Johnson was
one of the most talented and brilliant men that Washington county
had ever produced.
The canvass w^as one of the most exciting ever held in this district,
and the result was a majority of seventy-eight votes in favor of
Johnson, upon the face of the returns. The vote in the several
counties of the district was as follows :
*M. B. 31, paiTP 11-1'^, County Court Washington county.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 475
Johnson. Draper.
Eussell county, 347 247
Scott county, 495 115
Wythe county, 43 786
Lee county, 343 265
Tazewell county, 208 392
Grayson county, 44 750
Washington county, 1,270 116
Totals, 2,749 2,671
Jolm son's majority, 78.
Mr. Draper was not satisfied with the result and contested the
election of Johnson, charging many irregularities, the principal
irregularity being the fact that the Sherif? of Washington county
held the election in said county for four days instead of closing the
poll on the third day, as required by law, thereby giving to Johnson
eighty-eight votes more than he was entitled to, that being the num-
ber of electors voting in Washington county on the fourth day of the
election.
Mr. Johnson on the other hand charged and proved many irregu-
larities in Wythe county, the result being that a majority of the
Committee on Elections on the 13th of April, 1832, made a report
recommending that, in justice to the electors of the disti'ict, the
seat be declared vacant and a new election ordered, while the minor-
ity of the committee reported in favor of Charles C. Johnson, the
sitting member. The vote was taken upon the majority and minor-
ity reports and the Congress of the United States, by a vote of
eighty-five to thirty-five, declared Charles C. Johnson entitled to the
seat.
In the fall of the year, 1832, Charles C. Johnson was drowned
in the Potomac river while crossing from Alexandria to Washington
city. An election was held to fill the vacancy, at which election
Joseph Draper was returned the representative from tliis district
in the Congress of the United States.
General Jackson, upon his inauguration as President of the
United States, nominated Colonel John Campbell, of Hall's Bottom,
in this county, as Treasurer of the United States, which position
Colonel Campbell accepted, and discharged the duties of the same
476 Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
with honor to himself and credit to his native county. Colonel John
Campbell was the second native-born citizen of Washington county
to occupy a position of gi-eat honor in the government of the United
States, the other, General John Armstrong, Secretary of War in the
Cabinet of President Madison, was born in the town of Abingdon.
The County Court of Washington county, in the year 1832, was
composed of a very distinguished body of men, the fathers and
grandfathers of many of the present generation, and it may be of
interest to many persons to know the appearance and character of
the members of that court, given by a writer who' was personally
acquainted with each of them and who was a very competent judge
of men. In speaking of the members of this court the writer says :*
One of nature's noblemen is presiding. He is of large stature, has
a full suit of white liair, of florid complexion, and possesses a fine,
clear and somewhat musical voice. His man-
ners are easy and refined, and you will pro-
nounce him the very soul of dignity. That
is Colonel John Preston. See him as he
grasps the arm of the old justice's seat. Does
a lawyer quibble or travel from the record to
make out his case? He mildly recalls him
from his wanderings, as he remarks : "You
must confine yourself, sir, to the law and to
the testimony in the case."
coioneijohn' Preston, of ^^ear by are two l)rothers, of large stature,
Walnut Grove. of Eonian forms, gray heads and mild de-
meanor. Their judgments are well balanced, and their opinions
are worthy of the highest respect. Those are Major Abram and
Thomas Fulkerson.
The venerable James Keys, Esq., you observe, is very feeble and
but seldom is on the bench; he is sent for frequently, however, to
sign important proceedings of the court.
On the right of the chair is sitting a low, corpident gentleman
with full round features, thin hair, a little bald, and his gold
spectacles thrown back on his head. His utterances are ready and
clear, springing from a mind quick in its preceptions of right. That
is Captain Francis Smith.
*Rev. L. F. Cosby.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 477
That gentleman near him, of large frame, of Atlas-like propor-
tions — as thongh he could bear np a whole community on his should-
ers, is Colonel James White. He is somewhat
silent and meditative at times, hut delivers
his opinions (often presiding) with force and
independence. His hair is also gray and in-
clined to curl over his broad forehead.
Next yoi.i see a gentleman, once tall but now
bent with age — head quite white and face
ruddy. He speaks mildly and seems to regret
tluit tlie stern arbitrament of law is necessary „ , , - „r, •*
'' Colonel James White,
to compel to do right towards their fellow- of Abingdon,
ci-eatures. That is General Francis Preston.
Tliat justice on the right, very tall and very erect, of excellent
form, sandy hair, red face, and of fine mind, is William Khea, Esq.
The next is a large gentleman with round, full head and face,
liair black, with a mixture of gi'ay. That is Jonathan King, Esq.
He is quite unobtrusive, but firm and decided in his opinions.
That mild-looking gentleman to tb'e left, well set, of medium
height and good judgment, is Peter Minnick, Sr., Esq.
Next to him is quite a tall, strongly-lniilt gentleman; that is
Joseph Miller, Esq.
That tall and slender, light complexioned justice, sitting near,
is William Shaw Logan, Esq.
Among the group of justices on the left, you see two brothers of
large stature an.d strong features. They are of peculiar mould and
utterly disregard the vain blandishments of the world, and deal
only iai realities. These are Major Abram and Captain Eeuben
Bradley.
That very tall, square-shouldered gentleman, sitting near Col-
onel Preston, with elongated features, and smiling as he speaks
earnestly, is Tobias Smith, Esq. He loves his position, and renders
his gratuitous services freely for the good of his country, and no
man has served it more faithfully than he.
Near by is sitting Eobert E. Lowry, Esq. He has a very mild
countenance, his eyes resting in repose. He exhibits great good
nature, and is very modest in expressing his opinions.
Near him is a short gentleman with round features, and of ratJier
retiring demeanor. That is Lewis Smith, Esq.
478 Sovf hurst Virginio., 17Ji6-17S6.
Next is a man of great solid worlli, of mcMliumi height, of
sterling integrity, of excellent mind and heart. That is William
Bnchanan, Esq.
Two other justices yon discover on the right of th'e chair. They
are brothers and above the ordinary height. The first, Eobert E.
Cnmmings, Esq., has round features, is well proportioned, shoulders
droop a little. The other, James Cummings, Esq., is slender, of
good form, and generous bearing. Indeed they possess fine qualities
of mind and heart, and kindness is stamped upon their very natures ;
they are very deliberate and express their opinions cautiously.
Next to the justices just named, there sits another remarkable
man, of commanding personal appearance. The flash of his dark
eye, his compressed but somewhat protruding lips, indicate gTcat
firmness and determination of character. He speaks but seldom;
when necessary, however, he utters his opinions with great force and
independence. That is John M. Preston, Esq. He hates a mean-
ness in any one as he does his Satanic Majesty, and is firm in meting
out strict justice to all men. Integrity is one of his cardinal virtues.
There on tlie right you see sitting near one another Colonel John
Kellar, Major Henry B. Thom]:)son and Colonel Thomas McCUd-
loch. The first is dark complexioned, has blue eyes, is quick-spoken
and is of excellent judgment. He is noted for his fine social quali-
ties and kindness of heart. What man or woman in this section
of the country that docs not revere and love the memory of Colonel
Kellar? That he is a bachelor is to be regretted. His erect form
and fine personal l^earing are douljtless attractive.
Major Thompson is very good looking, has a fine eye, and an
excellent disposition.
Colonel McCulloch's appearance is fine; he is of genial nature,
and is an excellent officer. All three, subsequently, were members
of the General Assembly of Virginia.
That corpulent justice on the left, with full round face and white
hair, is John Dulf, Esq. But few magistrates transact more busi-
ness at "Wai-rant tryings'' than he, and general satisfaction is
given.
That very tall, venerable and clerical-looking gentleman near Mr.
Duff and from the same region of the county, is Edward Latham,
Esq. His fine suit of black velvet, for which he has a great par-
tiality, and his Avhite flowing hair combed back over his head, well
Washington County, 1777-1870. 479
formed, and his countenance lighted up with a smile, render his
appearance very imposing. He possesses an excellent mind, and
generally arrives at very correct conclusions.
Those two justices just taking their seats are Major James Tay-
lor and Hatch D. Poston, Esq. They reside in the upper end of
the county and are gentlemen of excellent minds. In person they
are fine looking, and as officers of the county, they are highly
esteemed.
Next you see a heavy, well-set justice. In his manner, he is
very pleasant and agreeable, of good natural qualities, of well-
balanced mind, of sound and correct judgment. That is William
Davis, Esq.
Esteemed for his manly firmness and excellent nature, you see a
tall and slender gentleman to the right of Mr. Davis. That is John
McCuUoch, Esq.
Abram Nordyke, Samuel Moore and Thomas McChesney, Esqs.,
sit next. Those gentlemen are deservedly honored, and held in high
esteem. They take rank among the substantial men of the country.
On the extreme left you are attracted by three gentlemen com-
paratively young; we may say in the prime of manhood. They
seem to take their position deferentially to the venerable men from
whom they would learn lessons of wisdom in their new vocation.
The first exhibits a fine personal appearance, ready in his utter-
ances, and bends gracefully forward as he expresses an opinion, his
red face sparkling with smiles, and he takes care to indulge, mean-
while, in an occasional sally of wit and good humor. His genial,
happy nature leads him to think well of the denizens of this world,
and sometimes, even on the bench, he will illustrate his opinions by
the relation of an appropriate anecdote. Intelligent and wise in
council, the county has long been favored with his services. The
justice referred to is John N. Humes, Esq.
The second is a slender gentleman, very neat in his dress, sits
quite erect and frequently turns his quick, penetrating eye towards
the senior members of the court. He seems to measure his words,
which are fitly spoken, when uttered', a valuable member of the court,
very commendably polite, and e:^tremely graceful in his manners.
That member is Peter J. Branch, Esq.
The third gentleman is very easy and social in manner and dis-
position. His shoulders droop a little as he sits on the bench ; his
480 Southwest Virginia, 1746-17S6.
opinions are communicated Avitli unreserved freedom and with a
sincere desire that right and justice shall prevail. His face is some-
what elongated when he is looking serious, but pleasant and social
as he is generally, he will often give you the benefit of one of his
old-fashioned jokes. That valuable citizen and justice is Colonel
Samuel E. Goodson. Pity some amiable lady had not long since
won his heart, for, unfortunately for his country's good, lie is a
bachelor ! Since a Representative in the State Legislatui-e.
Thomas McChesney, Esq., occupies his seat near the three last-
named gentlemen. His tall, slender figure, his intellectual, gray
head, forehead sloping back, give him an appearance at once com-
manding respect. He performs a great deal of private business for
his countymen in writing documents, and is a very useful citizen.
Near Mr. McChesney sits Captain John Moffet. He is a gentle-
man of fine sense, plain and unostentatious in manner. He is about
five feet eleven inches high, with a full developed form, and has a
very pleasant and genial appearance. In dispensing justice, he is
decided, but always mild and courteous.
The following lawyers composed the Abingdon bar in 1831,
including those not residents of the county : Henry St. John Dixon,
Edward Campbell, John H. Fulton, Peter C. Johnston, Peter Mayo,
David McComas, Charles C. Johnson, Joseph Draper, William M.
Fulton, Samuel Logan, Dale Carter, Andrew S. Fulton, Charles E.
Harrison, Charles S. Bekem, Beverly R. Johnston and John Hall,
Esqs.
The General Assembly of Virginia, on March 11, 1836, incorpo-
rated the Lynchburg and Tennessee Railroad, and authorized sub-
scriptions to the enterprise at different points from Lynchburg, west.
The commissioners appointed to solicit and receive subscrip-
tions at Abingdon were: David Campbell, James White, Andrew
Russell, John M. Preston, John C. Greenway, Francis Smith, John
Preston, William Byars, Samuel E. Goodson, Jonathan King and
John W. C. Watson.
So far as I can ascertain, no effort of any consequence was made
to build or complete the railroad as contemplated by the foregoing
Act.
In the year 1837 the construction of a turnpike road from Pond
Gap of the Cumberland mountain on the Kentucky line to the
Fincastle and Cumberland Gap road was begun, and John Preston,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 481
William Byars, Charles S. Bekem and Charles J. Cummings, were
appointed commissioners to solicit subscriptions to this enterprise
by the coimty court of this county.
Some time previous to the year 1837, the county court of this
county decided to erect a new building to be used as a jail for this
county, and appointed John M. Preston, Samuel Chastain and Elias
Ogden a committee to superintend the erection of said building, and
on the 38th day of May, 1838, the county court of this county
authorized the erection of a stone kitchen twenty feet square from
ont to out, on the public lot on which the new jail was situated, and
appointed John M. Preston, Elias Ogden and Jacob Lynch commis-
sioners for the purpose of contracting for and superintending the
building thereof.
The court directed this stone kitchen to be erected out of stone
from the old jail of the county, which old jail was built at a very
early date in the history of our county. The new county jail was
completed on the 23d day of October, 1838, and received by the
county.
This jail was destroyed by the Federal troops in December, 1864.
It stood upon the lot at the intersection of Valley and Court streets.
In the year 1837, Colonel John Keller, the representative from
this county in the Senate of Virginia, and a member of the county
court of this county, departed this life. Whereupon the county
court of this county adopted the following resolutions :
"Authentic information of the recent death of our highly-es-
teemed fellow-citizen. Col. John Keller, late our Eepresentative in
the Senate of Virginia and a member of this Court, having reached
the court of Washington county, whilst in session, and the court
and bar being desirous of testifying their sense of the worth and
excellence of Col. Keller, as well as their sorrow for his loss by this
afflicting dispensation of Divine Providence, in removing from us
in the prime of manhood, a citizen so distinguished for his worth
and usefulness and so generally esteemed and beloved for his
amiable deportment and sterling integrity; it is therefore resolved
that in token of respect for the memory of the late Col. John
Keller and regret for his loss, the members of this co'Urt and bar
will wear crape for the next month on the left arm. And it is fur-
ther resolved that these proceedings be entered amongst the minutes
of the court and published in the Virginia Statesman"
483 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
Colonel Keller was succeeded in the Senate of Virginia by tiie
Honorable Fayette McMullen, who represented this senatorial dis-
trict for tJie term of ten years without a break.
At tlie same time and for the same term the Hon. George W.
Hopkins represented this district in the Congress of the United
States, and the Hon. Samuel E. Groodson represented this county
in the House of Delegates of Virginia, three Democrats of the Jack-
sonian type and three of the most successful politicians in the his-
tory of our country.
On the 2-2d day of October, 1838, Colonel James White, one of
the distinguished citizens of this country, departed this life.
Upon receipt of the news of the death of Colonel White, the
county court of Washington county adopted the following resolu-
tions :
"The death of Colonel James White, a most enterprising, use-
ful and w^ortliy citizen of this county, who has long been an able,
enlightened, just and :firm member of this court, being announced,
and. this court and its officers and the members of the bar being de-
sirous of expressing their deep grief for his loss and the high re-
spect which they entertain for his memory, unanimously adopt the
following resolutions, which are ordered to be sj)read ujjon the
records of the court.
"1st. Ecsolved, That the court, its officers and the members of
the bar have heard with unfeigned regret of the death of Colonel
James White.
"2d. Eesolved, That in the death of Colonel James White society
has lost a worthy, intelligent and excellent member, and the county
an upright, just and efficient public officer.
"3d. Resolved, That as a mark of respect for the memory of the
deceased, the court, its officers and the members of the bar will w^ear
the usual badge of mourning for 30 days.
"4th. Resolved, That they tender their sincere condolence to the
widow and children of the deceased, and that they sincerely join
with them in deploring the loss of the husband, father and friend.
"5tli. Resolved, That the clerk of this court do furnish a copy of
these resolutions to the widow of the deceased and that he also cause
a copy of them to be furnished the Virginia Statesman, with a re-
quest that the same be inserted.
Washingto7i County, 1777-1870. 483
"6th. Eesolved, That this court do now adjourn and that they,
its oflBcers and tlie members of the bar will attend the funeral of
tlie deceased to-morrow at ten o'clock."
Colonel White was the architect of his own fortune, and at the
date of his deatli the wealthiest man that has lived in Washington
county.
Alexander Findlay, E. S. Watson and Peter J. Branch were se-
lected to appraise and divide his property between his heirs-at-
law, and their report shows that his personal property and landed
estate was worth $669,085.05.*
As an evidence of the superstition even now occasionally exist-
ing among the lower class of the country, there resided in 1838, m
the hills, a few miles from Abingdon, a man by the name of Marsh,
who was deemed by his neighbors not only honest and industrious,
but possessed of as much intelligence as most people in the lower
walks of life. This man was severely afflicted with scrofula, and
imagined his disease to be the effects of a spell or pow-wow prac-
ticed upon him by a conjurer or wizard in the neighborhood by the
name of Yates. This impression taking firm hold ol Marsh's mind,
he was thoroughly convinced that Yates could, if he chose, remove
the malady. The latter, termed an Indian doctor, was sent for
and administered his nostrums. The patient, growing worse,
determined to try another remedy, which was to take the life of
Yates. To accomplish this he sketched a rude likeness of Yates
upon a tree, and shot at it repeatedly with bullets containing a
portion of silver. Yates, contrary to his expectations, still sur-
vived. Marsh then determined to draw a bead upon the original,
and accordingly charged an old musket with two balls, an admix-
ture of silver and lead, watched an opportunity and shot his vic-
tim as he was quietly passing along the road, both balls entering
the back of the neck. Yates, however, survived, and Marsh was
sent to the penitentiary, f
*Deed Book 21, page 8, Washington county.
tCampbell MSS.
484 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
CHAPTER X.
WASHINGTON COUNTY^ 1840-1870;
About this time political lines were closely drawn in Washing-
ton county, and the zealous work of the advocates of the Whig and
Democratic parties has not been surpassed in the history of our
county.
Freeholders were the only qualified voters, and the great ef-
fort of the advocates of the two parties was to^ enfranchise every
male citizen sympathizing with their respective parties.
*Two brothers, prominent citizens of this county, were opposed
in their political views, one being a Whig and the other a Demo-
crat. They were the owners of a large tract of land situated in
this county. The Whig brother conveyed his interest in the said
land to a large number of persons of Whig sympathies, qualify-
ing them to vote, and thereupon the Democratic brother con-
veyed his lands to an equal number of male citizens of Demo-
cratic proclivities, and Governor David Campbell, who was the
owner of the south side of Clinch moimtain from Little Moccasin
Gap to Mendota, executed numerous deeds to his political friends
for the purpose of enfranchising them. In many instances the
grantee never knew the location of his land nor did he care.
In the presidential campaign in 1840 William Henry Harrison
was elected President of the United States, and there was great
rejoicing among the Whigs of this section. The AVhig ticket in
that campaign was as follows :
REPUBLICAN WHIG TICKET.
For President,
WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON, of OHIO.
For Vice-President.
JOHN TYLER, of Virginia.
*B. K. and M. H. Buchanan.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 485
Districts. Electors.
1. JOHN W. MUEDAUGH, of Norfolk comity;
2. JOHN UEQUHAET, of Southampton;
3. WILLIAM S. AECHEE, of Amelia;
4. EICHAED KIDDEE MEADE, of Dinwiddle;
5. HENEY E. WATKINS, of Prince Edward;
6. JAMES C. BEUCE, of Halifax;
7. WHITMELL P. TUNSTALL, of Pittsylvania;
8. THOMAS E. JOYNES, of Accomack;
9. NOEBOENE E. SUTTON, of Caroline;
10. WILLOUGHBY NEWTON, of Westmoreland ;
11.' JAMES LYONS, of Eichmond City;
12. VALENTINE W. SOUTHALL, of Albemarle;
13. JOHN S. PENDLETON, of Culpeper;
14. JOHN JANNEY, of Loudoun;
15. ANDEEW HUNTEE, of Jefferson;
16. PHILIP WILLIAMS, JE., of Frederick;
17. WILLIAM SEYMOUE, of Hardy;
18. BEISCOE G. BALDWIN, of Augusta;
19. BALLAED SMITH, of Greenbrier;
20. EDWAED JOHNSTON, of Botetourt;
21. JOHN N. HUMES, of Washington;
22. GEOEGE W. SUMMEES, of Kanawha;
23. WAITMAN T. WILEY, of Monangalia.
There were but three precincts in Washington county at this
time, to-wit, Joseph Meek's, the courthouse and Three Springs.
The election at the three precincts named was conducted by the
following persons :
Joseph Meek's. Courthouse. ;
Parker Smith, Ed. Latham,
Joseph Miller, Jonathan King,
John Clark, Daniel Lynch,
David Beattie, J. A. Davis,
Lewis Smith, Samuel Logan.
? * ^ Three Springs.
Thos. Fulkerson, . John Horn,
Peter S. Hanby, Isaac Stoffle,
Zachariah Jourdan.
486 Southwest Virginia, 17 46-1786.
Upon the death of President Harrison, in 1841, the 14th of
May, 1841, was, pursuant to the proclamation of John Tyler,
President of the United States, observed as a day of fasting and
prayer by the citizens of Wt^shington county; and on the 13th
day of May, 1841, the Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chan-
cery of this county entered the following order — Judge Estill pre-
siding :
"To-morrow being the day of fasting, humiliation and prayer
appointed by proclamation, to be ohserved by the people of the
U. S. in testimony of a nation's sorrow for the death of William
Henry Harrison, late President of the United States, and this
court and bar intending so to observe the said day, it is therefore
ordered that this court be adjourned till Saturday next, at nine
o'clock in the morning,''
A similar order was entered by the circuit court of Washington
county, Virginia, upon the death of President McKinley in the
3'ear 1901.
The cost of supporting the poor of the county had, by the year
1841, increased to such an extent that the county court of this
county decided to sell the poorhouse and maintain the poor by
having them supported in their homes, and a committee was ap-
pointed for the purpose of selling the lands occupied by the poor-
house of the county, but soon thereafter and before the lands
were sold, the order directing the sale of the property was, for
some reason, revoked, and between this time and the year 1860
considerable improvements were made upon the poorhouse farm,
M'hich consisted of the lands now occupied by J. A. P. Eyan.
By order of the county court during this year the commissioners
of the revenue were directed to omit from their lists the stu-
dents of the Ahingdon Academy and of Emory and Henry College.
The country at the time in question was greatly agitated over
the Texas revolution and the attitude of Mexico toward the United
States. The Democratic party, advocating war and the annexation
of Texas, nominated James K. Polk for President, and the Whigs
nominated Henry Clay. The contest between the parties in this
election was bitter from the start, but resulted in the election of
James K. Polk.
As a result of this election war was inevitable, and from the
spring of 1845 to the summer of 1846 the youth "of Washington
Washington County, 1777-1870. 487
county were monthly drilled and trained in the art of war. The
Government at Eichmond furnished the militia officers of Wash-
ington county with, a cannon and a number of guns, and Abram
Mongle, colonel of the One Hundred and Forty-sixth regiment,
was given permission by the county court, on the 28th day of
April, 1845, to erect a shed on the public lot for the protection
and preservation of the artillery allowed the coimty, and on the
25th day of March, 1846, A. C. Cummings was permitted to erect
a house on the public square for the preservation of a cannon al-
lowed the militia of the county by the State authorities, and
twenty dollars was appropriated by the county court to pay for the
house.
Upon the breaking out of the Mexican War, three large com-
panies of volunteers were organized in Washington county, one in
the lower end of the county, officered by Captain Frank Campbell
and Lieutenant Samuel V. Fulkerson; another at Abingdon, offi-
cered by Captain Arthur Campbell Cummings and Lieutenant
James T. Preston; another in the upper end of the county, the
names of the officers of which I cannot ascertain.
General Peter C. Johnston took an active interest in enlisting
the young men of the county in these companies, and during the
time, acco'mpanied by a number of young men from Washington
county, visited Lebanon on a court day, and took with him the can-
non that was at that time in the possession of the militia officers
of Washington county.
When the three companies above mentioned were completed, their
services were tendered to the Governor of the State, but were de-
clined, as the State had furnished its full quota of men.
The only opportunity for the citizens of this county to serve
their country in this war was to secure their commissions from the
President and enlist in the regular army.
In the spring of the year 1847, President Polk commissioned
Arthur Campbell Cummings, a graduate of the Virginia Military
Institute and an attorney at the Abingdon bar, a captain in the
regular army. Upon the receipt of his commission Captain Cum-
mings proceeded to enlist all volunteers possible for the regular
army, and on the 27th day of April, 1847, with fifteen recruits,
left Abingdon for Mexico. The night of the first day was spent
at Hansonville, the night of the second day at Virginia City, with
488 Southwest Virginia, nJf6-nS6.
James Dickeaison; the night of tlie third day at Wise Courthouse
with Captain Samuel Sal3^ers; the night of the fourth day one
mile over the Cumberland mountains with a Mr. Mullin ; the night
of the fifth day fifteen miles east of Pikeville, Kentucky, and from
Pikeville, Kentucky, Captain Cuinmings and the troops proceeded
by water to Newport, Kentucky; thence by the Ohio and Missis-
sippi rivers to the Gulf of Mexico, and thence to Vera Cruz,
Mexico, where he joined his command.
Captain Cummings and his men were assigned to Company K
of the Eleventh regiment of the United States Infantry, which
regiment was officered as follows :
Colonel, Albert C. Eamsey, of Pennsylvania.
Lieutenant-Colonel, Graham, killed in the battle
of Moline del Eey.
Lieutenant-Colonel, John LI. Savage, Tennessee, succeeded to
command upon the death of Graham.
Captain, iVrthur Campbell Cummings.
Privates.
James Dickenson, killed, Abingdon, 1865.
William Haley, served in C. S. A. ; died at Winchester, 1862.
Wesley Hubbard, Tazewell county.
Moses Hubbard, died Pueblo, Mexico, 18-17.
John S. Lynch, Washington county, killed Passo Ovejas,
Mexico; buried there.
Pawpaw, wagoner, died Pueblo, Mexico, 1847.
John Slaughter, Washington county ; served in C. S. A. ; died near
Banhams in 1898.
James J. Shelton, Washington county; served in C. S. A.;
married a daughter of George Garrett; killed at Chancellorsville.
Hezekiah. Smallwood, Scott county; killed accidentally in Scott
county.
Snead, Scott county.
Robert Wilson, died near Lynchburg.
James Wynn, Tazewell county ; emigrated to Missouri.
Marvel White, Scott county.
? W. S. Wood, Scott county, brother-in-law of Payette McMullen.
In addition to the volunteers accompanying Captain Cum-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 489
mings, the following Mexican veterans lived in this county, so far
as I can ascertain :
John Dinsmore, William E. Jones,
John M, Cunningham, John P. Johnston,
William Ehea, John C. Deadmore, Tex., Eev.
Samuel Davis, Tex., Eev. Madison Leedy, Tex., Eev.
The successfiTl conclusion of the Mexican War gave great im-
petus to the emigration from this section of A^irginia to Texas,
large numbers of the young men of the county emigrating thither.
The building of a new courthouse for the county was considered
by the county .court of this county in the fall of 1847, and the Leg-
islature of Virginia, on the 15th of January, 1848, authorized the
County Court of Washington county, Virginia, to borrow ten thou-
sand dollars for the purpose of erecting a new courthouse. The
county court at the June term, 1848, decided to borrow ten thou-
sand dollars and erect a new courthouse, and appointed John M.
Preston, William Y. C. WHiite and John D. Mitchell, commission-
ers, to borrow the money and superintend the erection thereof.
The building of the new courthouse was let to Herbert M. Led-
better and William Fields, contractors, and, by the spring of 1850,
the courthouse was completed and Jacob Lynch and Connally F.
Trigg were appointed a committee to purchase the necessary tables,
chairs, carpets, etc., for the new coiirthouse.
The courthouse thus completed served the county until the 15th
of December, 18G4, at which time it was destroyed by the fire that
burnt the town of Abingdon.
In the year 1848, General Zachary Taylor and General Lewis Cass
were the Whig and the Democratic candidates for the presidency,
while the Honorable Fayette McMullen and Samuel E. Goodson
were the Democratic candidate;.", and Andrew S. Fulton the Whig
candidate for Congress from this district. The Whig ticket was as
follows :
For President,
MAJ.-GEN. ZACHAEY TAYLOE, OF LOUISIAFA-
For Vice-President, -^
MILLAED FILLMOEE, OF NEW YOEK.
490 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Electoral Ticket.
1. John J. Jones, Isle of Wight,
2. George W. Boiling, of Petersburg.
3. Henry P. Irving, of Cumberland.
4. Joseph K. Irving, of Lynchburg.
5. W. Martin, of Franklin.
6. B. Johnson Barbour, of Culpeper.
7. Eobert E. Scott, of Fauquier.
8. H. T. Garnett, of Westmoreland.
9. John A. Meredith, of Eichmond City.
10. Robert Saunders, of Williamsburg.
11. Andrew Hunter, of Jefferson.
12. A. H. H. Stuart, of Augusta.
13. S. McD. Moore, of Eockbridge.
14. Connally F. Trigg, of Washington.
15. G. W. Summers, of Kanawha.
16. G. D. Camden, of Harrison.
17. F, H. Pierpont, of Marion.
Assistant Elector.
14th District, James W. Sheffey, Esq., of Smyth.
County and Town Electors.
Grayson, Dr. Robertson.
Lee, John M. Crockett,
Russell, Dale Carter.
Scott, William Spear,
Sm3rth, Thomas L. Preston.
Tazewell, John A. Kelly,
Wythe, P. S. Buckingham.
Washington, Charles S. Bekem.
In the contest for the seat in Congress, the Honorable A. S.
Fulton defeated his Democratic opponents and represented tliis dis-
trict until the year 1849.
The Honorable Fayette McMullen represented this district for a
number of years in the Congress of Lhe United States, and while
he had but little ability as a statesman, he was one of the most pop-
ular men and effective canvassers that ever lived in this district.
He kissed the babies, joked with the men and flattered the women
Washington County, 1777-1870. 491
upon all occasions. He knew, personally, nearly every voter in the
district Numerous anecdotes are told of Colonel McMuUen, the
best now recollected being told by Senator Vest, of Missouri. This
anecdote was told by the Senator to illustrate the propensity on tbe
part of some people for speech-making.
"It occurred in Virginia," said Vest. "Old Fayette McMullen
was canvassing his district for a nomination for Congress, years
ago, and during the canvass a man was hung in that locality for
murder. About ten thousand men collected to witness the scene,
and among them old Mac, who, by the favor of the sheriff, occupied
a place on the platform in the rear of the gallows, his oratorical
mouth watering at the sight of the magnificent audience in front.
When everything was ready, as is usual in such cases, the sheriff
asked the culprit if he had anything to say before the sen-
tence of the law was passed upon him; to which the condemned
responded that he would say nothing. Whereupon old Mac
stepped forward, rubbing his hands, and remarked : 'Mr, Sheriff,
if the gentleman will yield his time to me, I will embrace this
occasion to make a few remarks on the political situation, and
announce myself a candidate for Congress.' "
Major Eobert E. Bradley, a distinguished and popular citizen
of this county, died in the month of November, 1849, and the
coimty court of this county out of respect to his memory adopted
appropriate resolutions.
The Constitution of 1829-1830 had never been satisfactory to a
large majority of the people of Virginia in this, that the right
of suffrage was restricted to a greater extent than the times
demanded, and the representation, as between the sections, was so
imequally apportioned as to give dissatisfaction to all the people of
Western Virginia. By the year 1850, Western and Northwestern
Virginia had increased in population and wealth so rapidly that in
this year this section of Virginia succeeded in having adopted a
resolution by the General Assembly submitting to the people the
question of the calling of a Constitutional Convention. This ques-
tion was submitted to the people on the fourth Thursday in April,
1850, and resulted in the calling of a Constitutional Convention.
The election for members to this convention was held in the sum-
mer of 1850. This district was composed of Wythe, Smyth and
Washington, and the candidates before the people in said election
492 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
were : George W. Hopkins, B. R. Floyd, Thomas M. Tate, Demo-
crats, Connally F. Trigg, Andrew S. Fulton, James W. Sheffey,
Whigs. The two first named were elected by an average majority of
three hundred and forty-one, while the majority of Thomas M.
Tate, Democrat, over James W. Sheffey, Whig, was fifty-five.
At the time in question, George W. Hopkins was a member of
the General Assembly of Virginia, and, upon the convening of the
General Assembly in the fall of the year, he was elected Speaker of
the House of Delgates, and resigned his position as a member of
the Constitutional Convention, and the Honorable Connally F.
Trigg was elected without opposition to fill the vacancy.
This Convention assembled in the hall of the House of Dele-
gates at Eichmond, on October 14, 1850. It was controlled in
nearly all of its proceedings by what was known at the time as
"Eeformers.'^ This convention extended the right of suffrage to
every white male citizen of the Commonwealth of the age of twenty-
one years, who had been a resident of the State for two years^ and
of the county, city or town where he offered to vote, for twelve
months, excluding persons of unsound mind, criminals, etc.
It was provided therein that the vote should be given openly, or
viva voce, and not by ballot.
It will be observed that this was a radical change from the pro-
visions of -the former constitution of the State, property qualifica-
tions of all kinds were dispensed with, and manhood suffrage, for
the first time in the history of the Commonwealth, was made a
part of the organic law of the State.
The question of the apportionment of representation was
deferred by this Constitution until the year 1865, and was never
put into operation, as in the year 1865 the Commonwealth was
in great turmoil.
Had the provisions of this Constitution become effective as to
representation, this question would have been settled in a manner
satisfactory to the citizens of Western Virginia.
By this Constitution, the Governor, Lieutenant-Governor and
Attorney-General were made elective by the people, the Governor
and Attorney-General of the State having been theretofore selected
by the Council of State and the General Assembly. This was a
great change from the former conditions existing in Virginia and
Washington County, 1777-1870. 493
was antagonistic to tlie old system and former institutions of the
State.
All the judges and justices were made elective by the people.
Each county was to be laid oii' into districts^ and four justices were
to be elected from each district.
This Constitution was submitted to the people for ratification or
rejection, and all persons qualified to vote under the proposed
Constitution were permitted to exercise the right of suffrage in
said election. The vote resulted in the ratification of the Consti-
tution by the people in the month of October, 1851, the vote being
75,748 for, and 11,060 against the new Constitution. The vote
in Washington county was 1,083 for and 12 against the ratification
of the Constitution, the twelve votes against the Constitution
being polled at Abingdon precinct.
In the fall of this year the Democratic and Whig parties nomi-
nated their strongest men for Go'vernor and the Legislature,
George W. Summers, of Kanawha county, being the Whig, and
Joseph Johnson, of Harrison county, the Democratic candidates
for Governor, while in this county, Isaac B. Dunn and William
King were the Democratic candidates and John A. Campbell and
James Orr, the Whig candidates for the Legislature. The result
v>as the election of the Democratic candidates in the State and
the county by a greatly-reduced majority. This was the first time
in the history of the Commonwealth that the Governor of the Com-
monwealth was elected by popular vote and Virginia's first expe-
rience with manhood suffrage.
At the same election the followiiig county officers were selected:'
Clerk of the County Court, Jacob Lynch.
Commonwealth's Attorney, Samuel Logan.
Sheriff, Matthew H. Buchanan.
County-Surveyor, James C. Black.
Commissioner-Eevenue, upper end, Eobert H. Henderson.
Commissioner-Eevenue, lower end, James L. P. Campbell.
At the same time twenty-four members of the county court were
elected by the people. In the year 1852, Washington county was
divided into magisterial districts by Jonathan King, Washington
Bishop, Eobert B. Edmondson, Alexander Findlay, James C.
Fulcher, James L. Davis, Michael W. Weathers, John M. Hamilton,
L. L. Waterman, Peter S. Hanby and Whitley Fullen, commis-
494 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
sioners appointed for that purpose, aud the members of the county
court were divided into classes and held the court in the order
arranged.
From this time forward, the magnificent specimen of manhood
that so often adorned the old county court of this county grad-
ually disappeared, and their places, in many instances, were filled
by men who were able to control the voters, either by an appeal
to party passion or corrupt measures.
The members of the county court were elected from this time
until the year 1870, at which time the old county court system was
abolished.
In the fall of the year 1850, a considerable revival was evidenced
among the agricultural portion of the people of Washington county.
After notice, a number of the citizens of the county assembled at
the courthouse for the purpose of organizing an agricultural
society for this county.
At this meeting, upon motion of Connally F. Trigg, Colonel Wil-
liam Byars was elected chairman and John A. Campbell secretary,
and the followmg resolution was adopted :
That the chair appoint a committee of five gentlemen to pre-
pare and report a constitution to our next meeting, under which
the agricultural society for Washington county shall be organized.
Thereupon the chairman appointed the following committee :
Connally P. Trigg, chairman ; Wyndham Eobertson, F. H. Preston,
Samuel E. Goodson and William Y. C. White. The meeting then
adjourned to the 28th day of September, 1850, on which day a
.large number of the leading citizens of the county met at the
courthouse and adopted a constitution and by-laws and elected
the following officers of the agricultural society.
President, William Byars.
Vice-Presidents, David Campbell, William C. Edmondson and
James L. Davis.
Secretary, John A. Campbell.
Treasurer, John M. Preston.
Executive Committee, William Y. C. White, Lewis F. Cosby,
Isaac Home, F. H. Preston and John Baker.
The agricultural interest of Washington county was closely
looked after, and prospered to a considerable extent for many
years.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 495
The General Assembly of Virginia at its session in the year
1849, incorporated the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad Company,
and interest throughout this section of Virginia in the building of
this railroad was greatly stimulated.
A railroad meeting was held at Abingdon on the first day of
July court, 1849, for the purpose of electing delegates to a con-
vention to be held at Christiansburg on the 7th of August. Gov-
ernor Wyndham Eobertson was elected chairman and Leo Shaver,
secretary of the meeting, and on motion of John A. Campbell the
chairman appointed John M. Preston, Dr. Snead, Jacob Lynch,
C. F. Trigg and John A. Campbell a committee to draft resolu-
tions expressive of the sense of the meeting. The meeting was
addressed by Governor Eobertson, who dwelt upon the paramount
importance of the road to this section of Virginia.
John A. Campl)ell, chairman of the committee, reported the fol-
lowing resolutions, Avhich were adopted :
"Eesolved, That we, the people of Washington county, respond
cordially to the invitation made us by the county of Montgomery,
to appoint delegates to the convention proposed to be held at Chris-
tiansburg on the 7th of August, next, to take measures in aid of,
and to promote subscriptions of stock to, the Virginia and Ten-
nessee Eailroad.
Eesolved, That both local and general considerations urgently
recommend this great work to the enlightened self-interest and the
patriotism of the people of the whole Southwest.
Eesolved, That twenty delegates he appointed in behalf of this
county to attend the said convention ; and that they be charged to
cooperate heai-tily in any measure proposed by said convciitioji, cal-
culated to attain the desired object.
Pursuant to the third resolution, the chairman appoiutcd the
following-named gentlemen delegates to said convention : John M.
Preston, Colonel William Byars, Major John Campbell, William
King Heiskell, William C. Edmondson, William Y. C. White,
C. F. Trigg, Thomas L. Preston, John Gray, Charles B. Coale,
John A. Campbell, Colonel Ota H. Ward, C. S. Bekem, John D.
Mitchell, Colonel James L. Davis, Dr. N. Snead, William B. Byars,
Dr. A. E. Preston, John C. Cummings and Colonel Abram Moiigle.
The convention was held at Chxistiansbnrg, and in the month of
496 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
April, 1850, a corps of engineers were engaged in making a survey
preparatory to the location of a railroad through this county.
Another mass meeting of the citizens of the county was held in
Abingdon on the 25th day of August, 1850, for the purpose of elect-
ing delegates to a railroad convention to be held in the to-mi of
Wytheville on the 11th of September, 1850, at which meeting Dr.
Daniel Trigg presided and James T. Preston acted as secretary.
On the 20th of September, 1850, a railroad meeting was held
at Elizabeth Chapel at Saltville, having for its object the election
of delegates to a railroad convention to be held at Jeffersonville,
on the 17th of October. The object of this convention was to have
the Virginia and Tennessee railroad located from New river along
Walker's creek and Holston Valley, passing Saltville. The pro-
ceedings of said meeting were as follows :
"On motion. Major A. B. Trigg was called to the chair and
William P. Bishop and William King were appointed secretaries.
The object of the meeting was explained by Dr. Eobert Thurman,
and the following-named persons appointed to report resolutions
for the action of the meeting: Dr. Alex. McCall, Major Thomas
Tate, Dr. Eobert Thurman, H. D. Poston, Theo. G. Pearson, D.
M. Hunter and John Eoberts.
The committee retired and afterwards reported the following
resolutions which were unanimously adopted :
Eesolved, That it is expedient for the carrying out of the objects
of this meeting that the committee hereby appointed shall solicit
the concurrent support of the people of Eussell, Tazewell, Washing-
ton, Smyth, Wythe, Mercer, Giles, Boone, Monroe, Logan, Wyo-
ming, Kanawha, Fayette and Greenbrier coamties, in behalf of
obtaining a survey for the Virginia and Tennessee railroad from
New river along Walker's creek and Holston A^alley, passing the
Gypsum bank and Salt Works to the Tennessee line for intersection
with the Tennessee railroad at the most convenient point.
Eesolved, That a general meeting of the citizens of the aforesaid
counties and others interested be held on the 17th day of October
next, at TazeWell Courthouse, in aid of the aforesaid objects.
Eesolved, That the following-named persons be appointed dele-
gates to said convention : Tobias Smyth, James Kelly, W. W. Har-
vey, James McNew, J. M. Eopp, Wyndham Eobertson, Alex.
McCall, D. M. Hunter, Thomas L. Preston, James T. Morehead,
Eobert Thurman, James Saunders, T. G. Pearson, H. D. Poston,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 497
Whitley Fullen, 0. H. Ward, John Eoberts, Charles C. Taylor,
Charles C. Campbell, Jerome Campbell, Jezrell Harman, P. C.
Buchanan, Jr., Joseph Sexton, A. H. Cox, James Cox, Eansom
Tilson, Martin Davis, William P. Milner, C. F. McDonald, G. W.
Buchanan, John B. Tate, C. J. Shannon, P. C. Buchanan, Sr.
and J. F. Baugh.
Eesolved, That the names of the chairman and secretaries be
added to the said delegation.
Eesolved, That the Abingdon Democrat, Abingdon Virginian,
Jeffersonville Democrat, Wytheville Eepublican and other papers
friendly to tlie objects of this meeting be requested to publish its
pi'oceedings at the earliest time practicable.
On motion, the meeting adjourned.
A. B. TEIGG, Chairman.
W. P. BISHOP,
WILLIAM KING, Secretaries.
The County Court of Washington county, on the 28th of July,
1851, directed the election officers of this county to submit to the
qualified voters of the county, at the next general election, the ques-
tion whether the court of this county, on behalf of the county, should
subscribe to the stock of the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad
Company the sum of $33,400, on condition that said road be put
under contract to the Tennessee line the ensuing fall, and in the
month of October, 1851, a great railroad meeting was held in
Abingdon, at which meeting delegates attended from most of the
counties of Southwestern Virginia and East Tennessee. The pro-
ceedings of this meeting are here given.
On Wednesday last, pursuant to previous notice, a "great railroad
convention was held in Abingdon. It met at 12 M. and was tem-
- porarily organized by the call of Major John Campbell as chairman,
and the appointment of Charles B. Coale and William King Heis-
kell as secretaries.
On motion of C. F. Trigg, a committee of seven was appointed
to select and report officers for the convention, whereupon the chair-
man appointed the following gentlemen said committee — viz. : C. F,
Trigg, I. B. Dunn, W. Y. C. White, P. J. Branch, J. L. Davis, Dr.
T. M. Tate and Colonel William Byars.
The committee having retired for a few minutes, returned and
reported the following nominations for officers, all of whom were
?unanimously elected.
498 Southwest Virginia, 17If6-1186.
For President^ Hon. Seth J. Lucky, of Tennessee.
For Vice-Presidents, Colonel William L. Burwell, of Bedford;
Colonel L. C. Haynes, of Tennessee; Colonel Thomas J. Boyd, of
Wythe; Hon. William B. Preston, of Montgomery; John S. Gaines,
Esq., of Tennessee; E. S. Watson, Esq., of Smytlie; Colonel Wil-
liam Heiskell, of Tennessee.
For Secretaries, Charles B. Coale, Leonidas Baugh and William
King HeiskelL
The names of the delegates were then recorded.
From Washington coimty, Virginia, there were several hundred
delegates in attendance, and it was impossible to procure a list of
them.
Smyth county — James F. Pendleton, Thomas L. Preston, James
Saimders, Dr. Thomas M. Tate, H. D. Poston, Esq., Meade E.
Smythe, Eichard Haller, John C. Poston, William T. Campbell,
E. S. Watson, Esq., Dr. William T. Thurman, William Porter,
Esq., Kobert Houston, Esq., A. H. Campbell, James C. Smythe,
Dr. Eobert Tliurman, John C. Rogers James Campbell, John
Campbell, Thomas H. Thurman, Colonel Hiram A. Greever, John
H. Barton, John Pride and Robert Goolsby.
Wythe county — Colonel Thomas Boyd, Mitchell B. Tate, Charles
S. Crockett, Esq. and P. S. Buckingham, Esq.
Bedford county — William M. Burwell, Esq.
Scott count}' — Samuel V. Fulkerson, Esq.
Russell county — Richard H. Lynch, Dr. John T. Smith, John
McElheny and Charles L. Creigh.
Montgomery county — Hon. William B. Preston.
Emory and' Henry College — Professor Edmund Longley.
Richmond city — Wyndham Robertson.
Giles county — (as alternates). Colonel Thomas J. Boyd, Dr.
Thomas M. Tate and Colonel S. E. Goodson.
From Tennessee.
Sullivan county — Robert P. Rhea, Samuel Rhea, William Lynn,
James W. Preston, John S. Gaines, George M. Bachman, Rev. S. D.
Grimes, Hon. A. McClellan, A. B. Tipton, General James Dulancy,
Eli Marsh, Cyrus King, D. Willoughby, Benjamin Pembertoii,
David McClellan, James Crockett, John G. King, Wiliicim Wil-
loughby, John L. Keys, William Odell, Leander G. Dryden and
Leander M. King.
Washington CounUj, 1777-1870. 499
Jefferson county — William F. Anderson and Samuel N. Fain.
Green county — John McGaughey, Peter Earnest and Colonel
Loyd Pilghman, Chief Engineer of the Tennessee and Virginia
Eailroad.
Washington county — Dr. Samuel B. Cunningham, Colonel Lan-
don C. Haynes, Hon. Seth J. Lucky, William G. Gammon, Joseph
S. Ehea, Samuel D. Mitchell, Isaac McPherson, Henry Voung,
George Grisham, John A. Wilds, William H. Crouch, Albert S.
Graham and Colonel A. E. Jackson.
McMinn— Thomas L. Preston, W. Y. C. White and Colonel Wil-
liam King Heiskell as alternates.
Monroe county — Colonel William King Heiskell.
Carter county — N". J. Taylor, Colonel William C. Emmert and
Nathaniel M. Taylor, Esq.
Caldwell county, North Carolina — Colonel William A. Lenoir.
Huntsville, Alabama — Dr. L. B. Sheffey.
The chair appointed Messrs. W. Eobertson and C. F. Trigg to
conduct the president-elect to the chair, who promptly and cheer-
fully performed that duty, when the president indulged in a few
brief and eloquent remarks explanatory of the object of the con-
vention, and closed by calling upon the president of the Virginia
and Tennessee Eailroad Company (General 0. G. Clay) for an
exposition of the condition and prospects of the work.
General Clay, having complied, stated that but the comparatively
insignificant sum of $200,000 was wanting to complete the work
from Lynchburg to the Tennessee line. On motion of C. F. Trigg,
Esq., Professor Edmund Longley, who was present, and who had
been appointed a delegate to this convention, by a meeting of the
students of Emory and Henry College, was invited to take a seat
and participate in the deliberations of the convention.
It was moved by Wyndham Eobertson, Esq., that a committee
of seven be appointed to prepare a series of resolutions for the con-
sideration of this convention; whereupon the president appointed
the following gentlemen said committee: W. Eobertson, Esq., Dr.
S. B. Cimningham, Colonel S. E. Goodson, Hon. A. McClellan,
Thomas L. Preston, Esq., Captain J. A. Campbell and William
King Heiskell, Esq.
The committee having retired, in response to a call made upon
him. Colonel L. C. Haynes, of Tennessee, entertained the audience
500 Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
for more than an hour, with a most thrilling, eloquent and
unanswei-abie address, in advocacy of this great improvement; at
the close of which (the conmiittee not having returned). Colonel
William M. Burwell, of Bedford, was loudly called for and briefly,
but eloquently, addressed the convention.
The committee returned, but not having accomplished their
work,
On motion, the convention adjourned till to-morrow morning at
ten o'clock.
The convention, in pursuance of adjournment yesterday, assem-
bled at ten o'clock.
A number of ladies were present on the morning of the second
day, blessing and cheering the members of the convention and those
in attendance, -with their smiles and presence, urging us on to
renewed efforts in behalf of this great work, for their sakes, at least
if not for onr own.
Colonel John McGaughey, being called upon for that purpof.,
occupied the stand for a short time, during which he advocated
tJie speedy completion of this great railroad line, and deprecate^
that want of energy and nerve that has lost to so many forlorn
l>aclielors a prize worth more than all the gold of California; and
the lack of which is so detrimental to the interests of our great
railroad.
After Mr. McGaughey concluded, the committee appointed yes-
terday, through its chairman, Wyndham Eohertson, Esq., submitted
the following resolutions — viz. :
Resolved, That all history has shown, and all experience still
attests, that an easy and convenient means of intercourse between
men and of a ready interchange of the products of labor, if not the
main spring, is yet the indispensable condition of human progress
and national power, and of all the ameliorations, social, moral,
political and material, that follow in their train.
Eesolved, That from the introduction of railroads to the present
day, a like unvarying experience, wherever they have been tried,
has fully established their vast and yet unrealized importance to
the cause of civilization and of natural and individual wealth —
outstripping in their results, year after year, all previous calcula-
tions of their capacity for usefulness, and that, in view of the over-
whelming array of concurrent proof, we feel authorized to declare.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 501
that, in o^ur opinion, the value of the railroad is no more than the
value of light and heat, of the steamboat or mariner's compass, open
to question.
Eesolved, That among the projected railway communications of
the day, we recognize the great southwestern national route — pass-
ing through Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee — which pur-
poses to connect, through the most favorable depression of the Alle-
ghanies, the waters and people of the West and South with the
waters and people of the East and North, which, in particular, by
the most direct location possible across the Union connects New
Orleans with the seat of the national government and the eastern
cities, and which promises at no distant day to offer the most direct
practicable connection between our Pacific and Atlantic borders,
as second in importance to no other, exerting, as it must, a great
and most beneficent influence on all the great interests of our coun-
try — commercial, social and political.
Eesolved, That the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad and the
East Tennessee and Virginia Eailroad, occupying the very throat
of the pass between the West and East, form a most interesting
portion of this great line and must largely share in the mighty
results to flow from it; and yet more, because, viewed in its local
aspects, their result must inevitably be to augment production,
cheapen transportation, increase population and diffuse knowledge,
they pre-eminently deserve the fostering care of the States in
which they lie, and present the strongest claims on them and on the
people along the line, to a most liberal support.
Eesolved, That, connected by the strong ties of vicinage with
our sister State of Tennessee and by the bond of a common interest
in the prosecution of this great line of improvement, this conven-
tion feels at liberty and does most earnestly appeal to the authori-
ties of the State to lend their liberal aid and cooperation to our
fellow-citizens of East Tennessee, who are now laboring, with inade-
quate means, but enlightened and patriotic spirit, to construct the
East Tennessee and Virginia Eailroad.
Eesolved, That the Legislature of Virginia, by its generous par-
ticipation in the expenses of the construction of the Virginia and
Tennessee Eailroad, by the liberal charter granted it and by the
wise policy it encourages by authorized county subscriptions to
public works, has well and wisely discharged a high public duty.
502 Southwest Virginia, 17J^G-17S6.
and receive the merited tribute of the acknowledgments oi this
convention.
Eesolved, That while we consider the ultimate completion and
trinmphant success of the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad as
beyond all contingency, we yet deem its early construction through-
out the line to its western terminus to be of the highest importance,
and to insure that, it is only necessary to put forth renewed exer-
tions ; that we entertain no doubt whatever of the great value of its
stock, and, confidently recommending it as a safe and valuable
investment, we earnestly invite present subscribers, so far as they
can, to enlarge their subscriptions, and particularly appeal to those
who are able to aid in the enterprise and situated so as necessarily to
share its benefits, but who from whatever reasons have heretofore
held back, now that its final completion is certain, to come up to the
work and no longer refuse to share its preliminary burdens.
Eesolved, That we recommend the appointment of committees
for the various counties interested in this improvement to solicit
individual subscriptions and a standing central committee in the
county of Washing-ton, and that such subscriptions be on the condi-
tion that steps be taken by the company during the present fall
to place the road under contract through its whole length.
Eesolved, That in the opinion of this convention, the counties
along the line of the road will derive benefits from a subscription
to the road in increased wages to the laborer, increased prices of the
farming products and lands, in the increased amount of circulating
money, in increased variety of employments, and the early and per-
manent reduction of county taxes, so great as to render a small tem-
porary provision for any required loan scarcely felt as a burden,
and felt in all time after as the source of unmixed benefits.
Eesolved, That the company shall apply its present resources first
to completing and putting in operation the first division ter-
minating at Salem ; secondly, the grading and masonry of remaining
divisions to the Tennessee line; relying upon the rema;inling
resources after the said grading and masonry shall have been com-
pleted and upon further subscriptions to purchase the iron neces-
tion.
Eesolved, That we deem the uninterrupted prosecution and ear-
liest possible completion of the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad to
be commended by every consideration of sound policy; that we
Washington County, 1777-1870. 503
applaud the energetic policy which has heretofore marked its maii-
ageiuent;, and express the undoubting confidence that a persistence
in it will insure within a period of three years from this day its
triumphant consummation.
A call being made for Hon. William Ballard Preston, he arose
and took the stand and entertained a large and attentive audience
for two or three hours, with a speech of great force and eloquence,
in which he showed the importance of this road, not only as a local
or State work, but as a great national work, and as an important
link in the great chain of railway communication that is destined to
convey the productions of the Eastern Hemisphere to Europe, and
to the Eastern shores of this country.
On motion the convention adjourned until this evening at half
past four o'clock.
EVENING SESSION.
The first business in order was the report of the Committee on
Eesolutions, but before any action was taken thereon, a call was
made on the "distinguished gentleman from Bedford," Mr. William
M. Burwell, who entertained the convention for more than two
hours with a masterly address in favor of the great line from New
Orleans to Norfolk.
The convention now took a recess for one hour. On reassembling
at candle-light, Sidney Baxter, Esq., having appeared as a delegate
from the city of Eichmond and being introduced to the conven-
tion, proceeded to address it for a short time.
After Mr. Baxter "wound up," the resolutions of the Committee
on Business coming up in order, they were imanimously adopted.
Thomas L. Preston, Esq., then introduced the following resolu-
tion :
Eesolved,That this convention highly approve of the proposed
•opueral Eailroad Convention to be held at New Orleans, on the
."irst Monday in January next, and request the appointment by the
president, on its behalf, of five delegates thereto.
Hon. William Ballard Preston, submitted the following, which
was adopted :
Eesolved, That a committee of seven be appointed by the chair,
to prepare, after the adjournment of this body, an address to the
country setting forth the character, advantages and relations. State,
National and international, of the Southwest Virginia and East
504 Southwest Virginia, IT 46-11 sL
Tennessee Eailroad, and that the same, with the resolutions
adopted by this convention, be respectfully presented, on its behalf,
to the legislatures of the two States.
Mr. Eobcrtson moved that the President have leave to appoint
the several committees required under different resolutions of the
convention, after its adjournment, which motion was agreed to.
The following resolution was on motion of Mr. McGaughey
unanimously adopted :
Resolved, That the thanks of tliis convention are due to the
people of Abingdon and its vicinity for their bountiful hospitality,
and to the ladies for their countenance and support to this con-
vention.
The president being requested to vacate the chair. Colonel Wil-
liam M. Burwell was requested to occupy it for a few minutes,
when on the motion of John A. Campbell, Esq., "the thanks of the
convention were unanimously tendered to Plon. Seth J. Lucky, for
the dignity, ability and impartiality with which he presided over
the deliberations of this convention."
The president in a few brief remarks signified his appreciation
of the honor conferred upon him, and invoked the united efforts of
all in favor of the railroad.
On motion the convention then adjourned sine die.
SETH J. LUCKY, President.
CHAS. B. COALE,
WILLIAM K. HEISKELL,
LEONIDAS BAUGH,
Secretaries.
On the 2'J:th of November, 1851, the county court, upon motion
of the president and directors of the Virginia and Tennessee Eail-
road Company, appointed James Edmondson, Jolin Eakin, James
Orr, Michael W. Withers and James K. Lowry commissioners to
ascertain a just compensation to the owners of lands upon the line
of the proposed railroad through this county.
The election at which the question of voting the subscription to
the railroad was considered was held on June 1, 1852, a consider-
able majority of the citizens of the county voting for said sub-
ircription.
The advocates of the subscription held public meetings at the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 505
six precincts in Washington county on the day of the election, at
which meetings the following gentlemen addressed the people :
follows :
.Abingdon, Colonel S. E. Goodson.
Three Springs, C. F. Trigg.
Jones's Mill, J. H. Earnest.
Meek's, Dr. N. Snead.
Ward's Store, A. C. Cummings.
Fieenor's, J. A. Campbell.
TJie county court of this county on the 38th of June, 1852, sub-
scribed, on behalf of the county of Washington, $33,400 for three
hundred and thirty-four shares of the stock of the Virginia and
Tennessee Eailroad Company, and appointed William Y. C. White
the agent for said county to subscribe said sum in three annual
instalments of $ll,133l^ each, and authorized the said agent to
issue the bonds of the county payable twenty years after date bear-
ing six per cent, interest from date, and to sell the same for the
purpose of paying the subscription to the railroad, the said bonds
to bear interest from June 28, 1854.
The railroad was completed to the town of Abingdon in the fall
of the year 1856.
At the February term, 1852, of the County Court of Washington
county, Virginia, Green, a slave, the property of Thomas Wilson,
was tried, convicted and sentenced to be hung for the murder of
Tom, a slave, the property of William Y. C. White, but, by a sub-
sequent order of the court, his sentence was commuted and he was
transported from the Commonwealth. In the sj)ring of the same
year, Campbell and Benjamin Smith were arrested, and, at the
April court, were tried for rape. Campbell Smith was sentenced
to be himg, and on the S3d of October, 1852, was executed pursuant
to his sentence. An account of the execution is here given :
"Campbell Smith, a free negro, was hung yesterday (Friday)
near this place, in pursuance of the sentence pronounced upon him
by his Honor, Judge Hopkins, at the late term of the Circuit Court
for this county.
The crime of which Campbell Smith was found guilty was one
of so heinous and diabolical a character, committed as it was by
two stout negroes, and upon a young respectable white girl, tliat
but little sym]^athy was manifested for the prisoner by any one
506 Suutliwesl Virginia, 1746-1786.
present. The culprit himself seemed indifferent to his fate, almost
as much as many of those present to witness his execution.
He was taken from the jail about twelve o'clock and followed to
the place of execvition by between 3,000 and 4,000 people. After
arriving at the gallows, the Eev. George E. Barr, at the request of
the prisoner, engaged in a short and appropriate religious service
with him, having previously addressed a few remarks to the large
crowd assembled around the gallows. The prisoner stated, through
Mr. Barr, that he became religious six years ago, and continued
faithful for four years, when in an evil hour, through the influence
of intoxicating liquor, he lost the image of his Maker, and now
found himself condemned to die for an offense which he told Mr.
Barr, had it been committed by another, he would call as loudly
as any in the crowd for his execution.
He said he died at peace with all the world and trusted in the
mercy and forgiveness of the Saviour of the world. He struggled
for some time after the wagon was driven from under him.
On the 25th of July, 1853, the County Court of Washington
county, on behalf of the county, subscribed $4,000 to' the old court-
house and Abingdon turnpike, and appointed Jacob Lpich the
agent of the county to make said subscription, and on the 23d day
of October, 1854, the court subscribed $2,250 to the Abingdon and
Pattonville turnpike, and appointed C. S. Bekem the agent of the
county to make the subscription.
At this time in our history the attention of our public men
was, to a great extent, directed to the internal improvement of
the country, to the building of turnpikes, MacAdam roads and rail-
roads.
At the August term, 1853, of the County Court of this county,
Peter C. Johnson, A. C. Cummings, I. A. McQuown, Andrew
Edmondson and Washington Bishop were appointed commissioners
to run and mark the boundary line between the counties of Wash-
ington and Grayson, and in the month of October these commission-
ers made their report, which was received and recorded on the 29th
day of ISTovember, 1853.
Among the public improvements that attracted the attention of
the people of Southwest Virginia, and the one that was of greater
importance to this section of Virginia than all others combined, was
the Southwestern Turnpike road.
Washington County, 177.7-1S70. 507
On the 28th of January, 1846, the General Assembly of Vir-
ginia incorporated the Southwestern Turnpike road, which road was
to be a MacAdamized road from Salem, Virginia, by the way of
Christiansburg, Newbern, AVytlieville, Marion and Abingdon to the
Tennessee .line, and appropriated seventy-five thousand dollars to
carry into effect the object of the act.
The said road was to be graded to a width not less than twenty-
four feet, and to be MacAdamized to a width not less than twenty-
two feet.
This act provided for the condemnation of the lands over which
the road was to pass, said road to be, at no point, on a grade
exceeding three degrees.
An engineer, who was also to be superintendent of the road, was
to be selected by the president and directors of said company, and
it was made the duty of the engineer. to make all contracts for the
opening and constructing of said road, erecting bridges and what-
ever else was necessary for finishing the same, but all such con-
tracts were to be approved by the president and directors of said
company.
The consti'uction of this road was begun during the same year
and the work upon the road was carried on with) commendable
speed until the year 1848.
In January of this year, the road had been completed as far
as "Wytheville, and there was an urgent demand for its immediate
completion to the Tennessee line, by the citizens living in the coun-
ties of Smyth, Wythe, Washington and Scott, and the General
Assembly on the 17th of January, 1848, appropriated the sum of
three hundred thousand dollars to complete said road, not exceed-
ing sf.venty-five thousand dollars of said sum to be expended in
any one year.
The superintendent and engineer of the Southwestern Turnpike
let the contract from Wytheville west to the Tennessee line to
William L. Lewis, and this contract was approved by the president
and directors of said company in the fall of the year 1848. At the
fall session of the General Assembly in the year 1848, and, on the
day of the approval of said contract as above stated, E. E. Watson,
a member of the General Assembly from Albemarle county, intro-
duced a resolution in the Legislature to suspend the work upon the
Southwestern road west of Wytheville. A large majority of the
508 Southiuest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
Legislature were in favor of the resolution, but in view of the fact
that the Board of Public Works had signed a contract for the con-
struction of this road, the resolution was defeated and work was
continued upon the road.
Fifty thousand dollars of the public money appropriated for the
construction of this road was paid to William L. Lewis, the con-
tractor, but for some reason, which cannot now be explained, the
work of constructing said road was delayed, and but little progress
was made until the year 1851.
The road was surveyed and located to the Tennessee line by the
spring of 1850.
By an Act of the Assembly adopted on the 29th of March, 1851,
it was provided that unless William L. Lewis, the contractor,
should complete a section of the road twenty miles west of Wythe-
ville by the first day of April, 1851, it should be the duty of the
Board of Public Works within ninety days thereafter to take legal
steps upon the bond of the said Lewis and his sureties to recover
damages for his default, with the proviso that the sureties of the
said Lewis might become undei-takers to complete the twenty mile?
of road according to the tenor of the said contract, and in that
case action on the bond of the said Lewis should be suspended for
one year.
This same Act provided that, should the said William L. Lewis,
abandon or forfeit any other portion of his contract for constructing
the said road to the Tennessee line, the Board of Public Works
were directed and instructed to relet said road to the sureties of the
said William L. Lewis. And in the event the said sureties did not
become the undertakers of said road under this act, the Board of
Public Works should not give the said Lewis any further time to
complete his contract, but should, so soon as any part of his con-
tract for constructing said road is abandoned or forfeited, proceed
forthwith to relet the same in sections of not more than five miles.
As a result of this act, Lewis, or his sureties, completed said
MacAdamized road as far west as Seven-Mile Ford in Smyth county,
Virginia.
Such was the condition of affairs on the 5th day of April, 1851,
at which time a resolution was offered by Colonel Hopkins, direct-
ing the Board of Public Works to relet said road, to which resolu-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 509
tioii Mr. Stavall, a member of the Legislature, offered the following
substitute :
"llesolved, by the General Assembly, That the Board of Public
Works be and they are hereby authorized and required to suspend
the further construction of the Southwestern Turnpike road, except
so much as may be necessary to finish any intermediate sections
between the eastern part of said road which has been finished, and
the extreme western part of said road upon which the contractors
may have commenced work/'
This substitute was eloquently and energetically opposed by Col ?
onels Hopkins and Imboden, but was adopted by a vote of fifty-two
to forty-four, and the friends of the road were unable to obtain
a reconsideration of the vote.
A number of unsuccessful efforts were made by the friends of
this road to have work on the same resumed, but without success.
The newspapers of Abingdon charged that Governor Johnson
and the Board of Public Works were responsible for the suspension
of work upon this road, and Governor Floyd was severely censured
for his course in the matter. The road was never completed west
of Seven-Mile Ford, and while Southwest Virginia and Wash-
ington county have had to bear their portion of the great public
debt created for public improvements previous to 1860, they have
received no benefit therefrom.
The failure to complete this road has been attributed to different
causes, among the number being:
First. The anticipated construction of the Virginia and Tennes-
see Kailroad.
Second. The principles actuating Governor Johnson and his
advisers, which principles were opposed to internal improvements
by the Commonwealth and favored a strict construction of the
Constitution of the Commonwealth.
Third. The indisposition of the representatives from Eastern
Virginia to interest themselves in the welfare of Western Virginia.
It will be nothing more than an act ef justice to this section of
Virginia, if the General Assembly of Virginia should yet complete
this road.
In the year 1855 the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad Company
decided to build a branch railway from Glade Spring to Saltville,
to be known as the Saltworks Branch, and on the 27th day of
510 Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
February, on molioii of the railroad company, the county court
appointed William A. Preston, Lewis F, Cosby, Isaac Home, James
Orr and Pleasant Smith conunissioners for the purpose of ascer-
taining a just compensation to the owners of the lands through
which the Saltworks Branch would pass. This road was built
shortly thereafter and the town of Glade Spring had its beginning.
About this time, at the instance of John M. Preston, a number
of citizens contributed a sum of money sufficient to MacAdamize the
main road leading east from Abingdon to near the railroad crossing
at McConnell's Switch. Some evidence of this work is still to be
seen.
On the 23d of JiilV; I'S')'), the county court of this county, upon
recei[)t of information of tlie death of Samuel Logan, who had for
many years been the very efficient attorney for
the Commonwealth in this county, adopted the
following resolutions :
"Eesolved, That in the removal from amongst
us of Samuel Logan by an all-wise Providence,
this court has been deprived of an able and effi-
cient officer, the members of the bar of a courte-
ous and gentlemanly practitioner, the coinmu-
nity of a laborious, able and well-informed law-
ver, and his family of a kind and indulgent hus-
Samuel Logan. ^^^^^ ^^^ ^^^^^^^
"Eesolved, That the court, its officers and the members of the
l>ar extend Wunr warmest sympatliies. to the bereaved widow and
children of the deceased in this most afilicting dispensation of Di-
vine Providence.
"Resolved, That these resolutions be entered upon the minutes
of the court, and that the clerk furnish a copy thereof to Mrs.
Logan, and also to each of the newspapers of Abingdon for pub-
lication."
Nothing of any importance occurred imtil November, 1858, at
which time John, S. Mosby, wlio liad settled in the town of Good-
son, qualified to practice law in the courts of this county.
The abolition sentiment in tlie meantime was fast obtaining
prominence throughout the Union, and by the fall of the year 1860
excitement was at fever heat, and the feeling between the sec-
tions had srrown to such an extent that war was inevitable.
^Yashingfon County, 1777-1870. 511
The Democratic (.'on\ention held in this year for the purpose
of nominating a candidate for President was not harmonious, and
as a residt three candidates for President were nominated hy three
diiferent conventions hekl by the Democratic party, viz., John C.
Breckenridge, Jolm Bell, and >Stephen A. Douglas, while Abra-
ham Lincoln fl-as nominated by the Eepublican party.
The campaign preceding the election was exceedingly bitter, and
the election resulted in favor of Lincoln and the Eepublican party.
The effect of the election of Lincoln was to create great excite-
]uent throughout the South and advocates of secession, peaceable,
if possible, by force, if necessary, were heard and applauded
throughout the Southern States; but such were not the senti-
ments of the people of Washington county.
Four hundred patriots from the county of Washington had as-
sisted in the erection of the Union. Their descendants long hesi-
tated before lending their assistance to any movement that had for
its object the dissolution of that Union and they did not give their
consent nor lend their assistance to the movement until Presi-
dent Lincoln called upon the States for seventy-five thousand men
to invade and overcome the Southern country.
It must not be understood from what is here stated that the peo-
ple of this county were unanimous in their opposition to secession,
for it is a fact that numbers of our citizens were strong advoeites
of secession from the beginning.
War Between the States— 1861-1SG5.
In the month of December, 1860, or January, 18G1, a volunteer
company was organized in Abingdon and was Icnown as the Wash-
ington Mounted Eiflemen, and the county court of this county-,
on the 29th of January, 1861, entered an order permitting this
company to use and occupy the rooms on the third floor of the
courthouse as an armory, and from this time on, during the spring
and Slimmer of the year 1861, the sole theme of conversation was
the organization of companies of volunteers and preparations for
war.
At the election for members of the General Assembly in the year
1859 George W. Hopkins and Jacob Lynch were elected to the
Assembly from Washington coimty, and Ben Eush Floyd, of the
county of Wythe, was elected to the Senate from this district, but
Jacob Lynch soon thereafter became president of the Exchange
512 Southwest Virginia, nJf6-n86.
Bank of Abingdon, Va., resigned his seat in the Assembly, and
Dr. A. E. Preston was elected to fill the vacancy.
The one subject that engrossed the Assembly at its meeting in
the year 1860-1861 was the secession of the Southern States from
the Union, and on the 14th of January, 1861, the General As-
sembly called a convention and directed that an election be held
on the 4th day of February, 1861, to select delegates tO' the con-
vention thus called.
This Act directed that the sense of the qualified voters be taken
as to whether any action of said convention dissolving the connec-
tion of the State with the Federal Union or changing the organic
laws of the State should be submitted to the people for ratification
or rejection. In other words, the Legislature, by submitting to
the voters at this time the last question stated, did so for the pur-
pose of securiug their ratification of the action of this convention
in advance of any action by the convention.
The candidates for the position of delegates to this convention
from Washington county were: John A. Campbell and Eobert E.
Grant opposed to secession, and William Y. C. White for seces-
sion. The result of the election held on the 4th of February, 1861,
was an overwhelming triumph for Campbell and Grant, the vote
in this county being as follows :
WASHINGTON COUNTY— Official.
WAIT-A-BIT. SECESSION.
Precinas. Camphell. Grant. White. Floyd. Ref. No Ref.
Courthouse 307 236 154 79 209 92
Clark's Mills 11 9 13 13 10 13
Davis' 36 34 18 16 35 17
Waterman's 121 113 33 30 120 27
Three Springs 173 169 61 60 169 60
Gobble's 83 83 10 9 92 1
Craig's Mill 125 125 4 21 127 1
Worley's 103 92 13 00 105 00
Williams' 48 26 28 4 47 6
Morell's 48 39 39 37 62 14
Fullen's 58 54 32 38 59 34
Matt Clark's 56 19 69 90 50 68
Kelley's 51 50 33 33 52 32
DeBusk's 75 74 17 18 69 19
Arch Orr's 64 64 41 39 61 43
Miller's 122 119 34 37 119 31
Good Hope • 9 7 2 1 9 1
Green Spring 65 62 21 23 66 ^
1555 1375 622 529 1651 476
Washington County, 1777-1870. 613
While Governor Floyd was not a candidate, he was voted for
in this election, being a strong advocate of secession, and Secretary
of War in the cabinet of President Buchanan.
It will be observed from an inspection of the returns from this
election that the people of the coimty were overwhelmingly op-
posed to secession and to jjermitting the convention to proclaim
its action without referring the same to the people.
At this time South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama
and Georgia had adopted ordinances of secession, and excitement
was at fever heat.
At tlie February court following this election a tremendous
crowd of people were in Abingdon, and an incident occurred that
might, under other circumstances, have definitely fixed the senti-
ment of the people of tliis county against secession and have placed
this section within the State of West Virginia.
A few over-zealous advocates of secession on the morning of the
day in question obtained a Confederate flag and placed it upon a
rope stretched across Main street from the residence of John D.
Mitchell to what is known as the White House, on the south side
of the street.
When the presence of this flag was observed it greatly enraged
the citizens of the county who were opposed to secession, and Wil-
liam B. Clark,* one of the best and bravest men this county has
ever produced, proposed to the anti-secession men present that
they immediately tear down what he termed "that d — d rag," say-
ing, "Boys, it is not the flag of our fathers," and immediately pro-
ceeded to execute his threat.
At the same time the advocates of secession appeared, and war
seemed imminent, but by the advice and counsel of Joseph T.
Campbell, Judge Campbell, Charles S. Bekem, and others the dis-
turbance was quelled.
It is proper to be stated at this point that as soon as Virginia
had seceded from the Union and the homes of our people were
threatened with invasion, the men who that day proposed to tear
down the Confederate flag were the first to enlist in the service of
their State, were the bravest in battle and the last to surrender,
William B. Clark himself dying in the service of his country.
"Grandson of James Hillan. who fought at King's mountain.
514 Southwest Virginia, 17 46-1786.
Tlie convi'iiliun aiiseinbled in the cily of liiclnnoud on the 13th
day of February, ISGl, and on tlie 17th of April, 1861, by a vote
of 81 to 51, adopted an ordinance to repeal the ratification of tlie
Constitution of the United States by the State of Virginia, and
to resume all the rights and powers granted under said Constitu-
tion. Tills act of the convention was submitted to the people for
ratification at an election held on the fourth Thursday of May,
18G1, at which election, the ordinance of secession was ratified.
Washington county voted for the ratification by an overwhelming
majority. • On the 15th of June, 1861, the convention agreed to a
permanent Constitution for the State, but tliis Constitution, when
submitted tO' the people, was rejected by a small majority, and the
Constitution of 1850 remained the fundamental law of the State.
The convention that adopted the ordinance of secession elected
five gentlemen to represent Virginia in the Confederate Congress,
then in session at Montgomery, Alabama, Judge Waller E. Staples
being tlie representative from this section of Virginia.
While the delegates from Washington county sent to Eiclimond
were opposed to secession, they afterwards voted in favor of the
ordinance of secession in view oi the course pursued by President
Lincoln and his cabinet.
In the month of March President Jefferson Davis formed his
cabinet, which was confirmed by the Senate of the Confederate
States, and was composed of the following gentlemen: Robert
Toombs, C. C. Memminger, L. P. Walker, S. E. Mallory, J. H.
Eeagan and J. P. Benjamin.
On the 24tli of December, 1860, the county court of Washington
county, upon motion of the president and directors of the Virginia
and Kentucky Eailroad Company, appointed James L. Davis, L.
L. Waterman, John Gobble, Eoland T. Legard and William Fields
commissioners to ascertain a just compensation to a number of
land owners through whose land said road was proposed to be
constructed, and these commissioners made their report to the
county court on the 24th of February, 1861. This was the incep-
tion of the efforts that resulted in the building of the Virginia
and Southwestern railroad from Bristol to Big Stbne Gap.
At the January term of the county court in 1861 the court gave
permission to Thaddeus Harris, Samuel Merchant, Barbary Bev-
erly and Senah Richmond, free persons of color, to remain in tlie
Washington County, 1777-1870. 515
county for the space of ninety days for the purpose of settling
their business, the authorities having theretofore required all free
persons of color to leave the county, but, notwithstanding this pro-
vision, many free persons of color remained in the county through-
out the entire war by having s^me responsible white man stand
security for their good behavior.
At the April term of the court of this county the sum of fifteeii
thousand dollars was voted by the county court for the purpose of
securing necessary supplies for the support, equipment and arming
of the volunteer companies of the county, which companies were at
that time being formed, and James K. Gibson, William Y. C.
White, John W. Johnson, T. Gf. McConnell, James C. Greenway
and Thomas S. Stuart w^ere appointed a committee and autho-
rized to borrow said money and to issue the bonds of the county for
the same, said bonds to be paid in one, two and three years, or upon
longer time if said committee should think proper.
At the May term of the county court the court adopted a plan to
police the county for the protection of the citizens, the order of
the court being as follows :
1st. The magistracy of this county shall constitute a vigilance
committee, who shall be always on the alert and at all times more
prom23t and active than ever in the performance of their duties
under the law in the protection of the rights and interests of the
citizens.
2d. The county court shall have control over all measures of
home protection and defence.
3d. There shall be a central vigilance committee in each dis-
trict, composed of four magistrates and two other discreet gen-
tlemen, to be appointed by the court within the bounds of every
district. This committee shall have power to direct and dispense
all measures of protection and defence wathin the sphere of their
actions, and make a report in writing at least once a month to
the county court of all matters worthy of note.
4th. There shall be one or more volunteer companies of not
less than forty men within each district to be commanded by a cap-
tain and two lieutenants and four sergeants, respectively, which
officers shall be selected by the men of the companies and confirmed
by the court. Each man shall be armed with his own rifle, musket
or shot-gun, or wdth arms of like character, loaned or furnished
516 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
hi in by the citizens oi each district from the house, stock or lauds
or otherwise. In like manner he to furnish or liave procured to
him a suflQciency of ammunition. The coanpanies shall be divided
into two platoons, extending from the center to the extremities of
the district as nearly as practicable, and shall act as a general pa-
trol within the proper bounds and under their proper officers
at least once a week, performing alternate turns of duty. The
company, or companies, of the district shall assemble semi-montlily
at some central point, under the command of the captain, for the
purpose of drill and instruction. At these meetings a report of
the general operations of the company, and especially the condi-
tion of things within the districts as regards the peace, security
and good order of the ctiizens, shall be made to the captain, and by
him reduced to writing and forwarded to the central committee.
5th. The district committee shall have power to order out, when
in their opinion deemed necessary, an additional police to act in-
dependently of, or in conjunction with, the armed police.
6th. The needy families of all the volunteers absent in the ser-
vice of the State shall be provided for, and with this view the
magistrates of each district shall be appointed by the court a com-
mittee whose duty it will be to inquire into the condition and ne-
cessities of said families, and provide at once for the same, if neces-
sary, and report in writing to the next and every succeeding county
court, and thereupon the proper allowance will be made.
7th. In the event of invasion or for the purpose of suppressing
insurrections within the county, this court will at once proceed to
appoint a field officer, who shall be empowered to call out and
command the voluntary forces provided for, or so much thereof
as may in his opinion be deemed necessary for the purpose of re-
pelling such invasions or suppressing such insurrection.
The court then proceeded to the appointment of the additional
committee under the third clause, and thereupon John L. Brad-
ley and Jacob Neff were appointed in district No. 1 ; Henry Eoberts
and Francis Preston, in district No. 2; John Gobble and A. M.
Apling, in district No. 3; Jeriel D. Linder and John J. Scott, in
district No. 4; Alex. G. Thompson and David M. Stuart, in dis-
trict No. 5; Benj. K. Buchanan and Eobert B. Edmondson, in
district No. 6: Andrew Edmondson and James Kelly, in district
Washington County, 1777-1870. 517
No. 7; Thomas M. Preston and John Eakin, in district No. 8;
Robert L. Berry and Lilburn 0. Byars, in district No. 9.
The court then unanimously elected James T. Preston colonel
or field officer under the seventh clause.
A number of muskets had been furnished the county by the
State authorities early in the year^ and had been distributed
throughout the county, but in such a manner as to render them of
little value to the authorities, and at the May term of the court
the shej'iff of the county was directed to collect and deposit them
in Abingdon.
During the spring and summer of 1861 ten companies were or-
ganized in Washington county, which were officered as follows :
The Washington Mounted Rifles — Captain William E. Jones.
The Mountain Boys — Captain William White.
The Glade Spring Eifles — Captain E. P. Carson.
Washington Independents — Captain Dr. James L. White.
Company B, Forty-eighth Virginia Regiment — Captain Milton
White.
Company I, I'orty-eighth Virginia Regiment — Captain James
C. Campbell.
Company H, Thirty-seventh Virginia Regiment — Captain Robert
E. Grant.
Goodson Rifle Guards — Captain John F. Terry.
Floyd Blues — Captain David C. Dunn.
Company F, Forty-eighth Virginia Regiment — Captain D. A. P.
Campbell.
The Washington Mounted Rifles were sent to First Virginia Cav-
alry, Stuart's command, while the companies of Captains Terry, Car-
son, Grant, James L. White and William White formed a part of the
Thirty-seventh regiment, commanded by Colonel Samuel V. Fulker-
son, and the companies officered by D. A. P, Campbell, James C.
Campbell and Milton White formed a part of the Forty-eighth regi-
ment, commanded by Colonel John A. Campbell, of Abingdon, and
D.C.Dunn's company formed a part of Floyd's Brigade. Captain A.
C. Cummings was commissioned colonel by a committee composed
of Governor Letcher, Judge Allen and Francis Smith, in the
month of May, 1861, and was ordered to report at once tO' General
Jackson at Harper's Ferry, which he did, and was there assigned
to the command of the Second reginient, afterwards the Tenth Vir-
518 ? Sovihivesl Virginia, 1H6-1786.
giiiia regiment, but Avas soon thereafter placed in command of the
Thirty-third Virginia regiment.
At the June term of the county court Thomas G. McConnell
was appointed by the court to visit all the volunteer companies
from this county then in the service of the State or thereafter to
be formed, and to provide for their wants out of any money that
might be in the hands of the committee appointed by the court at the
April term.
About this time Charles Eckerbusch was arrested and committed
to jail upon the suspicion that he was not true to the institutions
of the So'Uth, but was discharged by the court upon his taking
the following oaths, to-wit :
"I declare myself a citizen of the Commonwealth of Virginia,
and solemnly s^ear that 1 will be faithful and true to the said
Commonwealth, and will support the Constitution thereof so long
as 1 continue to be a citizen thereof, so help me God."
"I do solemnly swear that 1 will obey all orders of the legally
constituted authorities of the State of Virginia and of the Confed-
erate States, and that I will in no wise give aid and comfort to
the enemies of the State or Confederate States either directly or in-
directly, so help me God."
On Sunday night, September 1, 1861, at about 10 o'clock a col-
lision occurred on tlK> railroad, al)out one mile west of Abingdon,
between trains loaded with troops. The first train, carrying a part
of the second regiment of the Polish Brigade from Louisiana, was
ascending the grade west of the depot when a shackle pin broke,
and the cars descended to the level at the bridge over Wolf creek.
At this time the second train, heavily loaded with soldiers, ran
into the front section at the bridge, the result being one soldier
killed and seventeen wounded, one of the wounded soldiers after-
guards djdng. The wounded soldiers were removed to the houses
of the Eev. James McChain, Messrs. T. G. McConnell, J. M. Eopp,
and Judge S. V. Fulkerson, and were attended by Drs. Preston,
Barr, Heiskell and Pitts.
On the 28th of October, 18G1, the coimty court of this county
appropriated an additional sum of $2,500 for the purpose of sup-
plying the volunteers of this county in the service of the Confed-
erate States, and directed the committee theretofore appointed to
borrow said sum of money and apply it to the purposes mentioned.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 5i9
At the same term of the court William B. Dickenson was ap-
pointed quartermaster for the eastern and John M. Hamilion for-
the western district of the oonntj, and they were directed to aid
the committee appointed by the conrt in applying the snms above
voted to the purposes directed.
On Thursday, NQ,yember 6, 1861, an election was held through-
out the Confederate States for President, Vice-President and mem-
bers of Congress. Jefferson Davis and Alexander H. Stephens had
no opposition for the offices of President and Vice-President of
the Confederate States of America, but in this district the Hon.
Walter Preston, of Abingdon, and the Hon. Fayette McMullen, of
Scott county, were opposing candidates.
Polls were opened at all the voting precincts in the county, and,
in addition thereto, at Camp Dickenson, Camp Cooper and at the
Confederate camp at Abingdon, soldiers being stationed in this
county at the places mentioned.
Preston was elected a member of the Confederate Congress by a
considerable majority.
On the 25th of March, 1863, the sheriff and his deputies and the
commissioners of the revenue were directed to enroll, as soon as
possible, all able-bodied free negroes in the county and report the
same to the clerk of the court.
By this time the families of the absent soldiers were beginning
to feel the burden of the war, and a number of the wealthier citi-
zens of the county by voluntary contributions undertook to relieve
their situation. The following citizens contributed the sums set
opposite their names to this cause :
1863. April 38. Henry Preston, $ 300 00
1863. April 38. Stuart, Buchanan & Co^, 1,000 00
1863. Dec. 33. Mrs. Wyndham Eobertson, 100 00
1863. Oct. 36. Wyndham Eobertson, 500 00
The General Assembly of Virginia, on the 39th of March, 1863,
passed an Act authorizing the counties to issue notes of less denomi-
nation than five dollars, and the county court of this county, on
the 28th of April, 1863, deciding to avail itself of the advantages
of this law, appointed a committee, consisting of James K. Gibson,
Thomas G. McConnell and William King Heiskell, to ascertain
and report to the court.
First. A design for said notes.
520
Southwest Virginia, 17 46-17 86.
Second. Whether a supply of suitable paper could be procured
and on what terms.
Third. The terms upon which said notes could be printed and
the amount and denomination of the notes necessary to be issued.
Tins committee on the following day made their report, which
report was filed, and, upon consideration of said report, the county
court ordered that this county issue $15,000 of these notes of the
following denominations and amounts :
Nine thousand ten-cent notes.
^ Six thousand fifteen-cent notes.
Eighteen thousand twenty-five-cent notes.
Three thousand four hundred and fifty one-dollar notes.
Six thousand fifty-cent notes.
Three thousand seventy-five-cent notes.
The form of said notes as prescribed by the court is shown by
the facsimile of a one-dollar note and a twenty-five-ccnt note.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 521
John G. Kreger, clerk, whose name appears to said notes, was
required by the court to issue the same as soon as practicable, and
was appointed treasurer for the purpose of exchanging said notes
for other funds to pay the indebtedness of the county.
The court, on the 34th of June, directed the clerk not to issue
the ten-cent notes as provided for by their former order, but to
issue twenty-one thousand six hundred notes of the denomina-
tion of twenty-five cents instead of eighteen thousand as provided
by their former . order, and John G. Kreger, the clerk, on the 24th
of February, 1863, was allowed one thousand dollars for issuing
and redeeming said notes.
On Tuesday, the 4th of April, 1862, a company of Confederate
soldiers was organized in Abingdon, to which was given the name
of the Abingdon Confederates. This company was officered as
follows :
Captain, William L. Hunter.
First Lieutenant, Milton W. Humes.
Second Lieutenant, William McChesney.
Third Lieutenant, James H. Smith.
This was Company A, and formed a part of the Sixty-third Eegi-
ment, Virginia Volunteers.
On the 11th day of April, 186S, the Methodist Protestant church
and the Protestant Episcopal church of Abingdon delivered the
bells used by the respective churches tO' the ordinance department
of the Confederate States for use in manufacturing cannon, and
on the 25th of April of the same year the Presbyterian and Metho-
dist Episcopal churches, South, performed a like service.
In the spring of the year 1862, the armies of the Confederate
States were reorganized, and upon the reorganization of the Thirty-
seventh and Forty-eighth regiments Colonels Fulkerson and Camp-
bell, as well as Lieutenant-Colonels Carson and Garnett, were re-
elected. Major Williams was re-elected in the Thirty-seventh, and
Captain James C. Campbell, of Abingdon, succeeded Major Stuart
in the Forty-eighth regiment.
In the companies there Avas a considerable change as follows :
Captain Grant was succeeded by Sergeant Duff.
Captain William White was succeeded by Lieutenant B. P. Mor-
rison.
Captain James L. White was succeeded by Captain James Vance
522 Southivest Virginia, 17Ji6-1786.
and Captain Vance was succeeded by Sergeant T. M. Gobble.
Captain Milton White was succeeded by Lieutenant W. Y. C.
Ilannuni. Captain D, A. P. Campbell was succeeded by Lieu-
tenant W. T. GreenA\ay.
At the October term of the county court, in the year, 1862, the
court appointed agents in the several magisterial districts of this
county to solicit subscriptions in their districts of articles of cloth-
ing, shoes, etc., for the use of the volunteers in tlie service of the
Confederacy.
At this time a great scarcity of salt prevailed in the county as
a result of the State authorities taking charge of the salt works,
and the county court appointed John N". Humes a committee to
correspond with: Governor Letcher and seek to have the contract
of Stuart, Buchanan & Company, made with the county authori-
ties in July of this year, enforced, but the court obtained no relief
in this particular.
On the 27th of June, 1SG2, Colonel Samuel V. Fulkerson, of the
'Thirty-seventh Eegiment, was mortally wounded near Eichmond on
the second day of the great battle before Eichmond, and died the
next day. Upon the receipt of the news of his death, a public meet-
ing was held at the courthouse of this county for the purpose of
(Offering a tribute of respect to the memory of the deceased.
"On motion, J. N. Humes, Esq., was called to the chair, and
William King Heiskell appointed secretary.
The object of the meeting was explained by Adjutant Joseph T.
Campbell in brief but appropriate remarks, and, on his motion, a
?committee of ten gentlemen was appointed as an escort of honor to
meet the remains at Wytheville. The following gentlemen were
appointed : Adjutant J. T. Campbell, Hon. Walter Preston, Wil-
liam King Heiskell, Colonel A. C. Cummings, Thomas G. McCon-
nell, G. Y. Litchfield, Jr., William Y. C. White, James C. Green-
way, J. G. Kreger and D. M. Stuart."
This committee met the remains of Colonel Fnlkerson at Wythe-
ville and accompanied the same to Abingdon.
Colonel Fulkerson, at the time of his death, was judge of the
Seventeenth Circuit of the Superior Court of Law and Chancery,
and soon thereafter an election was held in this circuit to fill the
vacancy, at which election John A. Campbell, John W. Johnson,
William B. Aston and W. F.. CeQill, were opposing candidates.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 523
Judge Campbell was elected by a considerable majority and served
until removed by the military authorities of the United States in
the year 18G9.
In May, 1863, President Jefferson Davis issued his proclamation
setting apart the 16th day of May, 1863, as a day of fasting, humil-
iation and prayer, and, on the day appointed, the several congre-
gations of the town united in regular services at the Methodist
Episcopal Church, South, at eleven o'clock in the morning, and at
the Methodist Protestant Church at four o'clock in the evening.
On the 4th day of October, 1863, in the lower end of this county,
on the farm of Colonel John Preston, William McDaniel, a very
respectable citizen was brutally murdered by Jerry and Jim, two
negroes, the property of James Allen, of Tennessee. These negroes
had left their homes and were scouting in the woods, with a lot of
stolen property in their possession, when they observed McDaniel
approaching. After meeting McDaniel and engaging in a conver-
sation with him, as to what they were doing there, and where they
were going, Jack, one of the negroes, struck and seriously wounded
McDaniel, and the negroes hid his body until night camo on and
then returned and carried it to the creek and placed it therein.
They were tried, and Jim and Jerry were sentenced to be hung on
the 23d of January, 1863, on which day they were executed pur-
suant tO' the sentence of the court.
The Abingdon paper in describing the scene in Abingdon on that
day says:
"At an early hour the people began to pour into town from the
farthest limits of this and adjoining counties, and from the gorges^
and coves of the mountains. They came by railroad, in wagons,,
on horses and mules, and hundreds came wading up to their knees,
in mud. Some rode bare-back, others on sheep-skins, and' again,
others with halters and hlind bridles. Little boys and negroes gal-
loped into town almost breathless, bespattered with mud and wild
with excitement to see two negroes choked to death. But stranger
still was it to see probably not less than a thousand hearty, robust
young men jostling and elbowing their way through the dense
mass of humanity towards the field where the scene was to be
enacted ; and when we saw them working and twisting their tor-,
tuous way like so many eels in the mud, we wondered if they
would have been as eager and as hurried if there had been a squad;
524 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
of Yankees in that direction. If Stonewall Jackson had them, he
would cross the Potomac in a week."
This execution took place in the Academy field west of Abingdon
and was the last execution of any person in this county for any
offense.
The Provost-Marshal at Abingdon at this time was Colonel
John H. Earnest.
In October of this year President Lincoln issued his proclama-
tion emancipating all negroes after the first day of January, 18G3,
which information greatly excited the slave owners of the county.
Some idea of the conditions existing during this time may be
gathered from a diary kept by a very aged citizen of Abingdon,
from the summer of 1861 to the fall of 1863, which diary is here
given,
"1861. July 1st. The evening train had about 150 troops; 100
from Arkansas, the balance from Georgia, remnants of companies
gone on.
"1861. July 2d. At dark I saw the comet for the first time, but
it was seen the night before by others. It is the largest I have ever
seen; it was high up north of west, at ten o'clock it was large, the
tail was broad and appeared to be 250 feet long, the body of it
appeared the size of a common hat.
"1861. July 3d. The evening train had 200 Arkansas troops.
"1861. July 4th. This day eighty-five years ago since the Decla-
ration of Independence of the old U. S. It's gone, and to-day there
is another declaration going on for independence, the South against
the North, and it must and will end the same way the first declara-
tion did against old England. The South must be independent
of the North, her cause is more just, etc. In 1775 there were two
parties, one for immediate independence from old England, the
other was for no separation from the mother country, as they called
it. But independence was declared on the 4th of July, 1776. The
party that went for independence of the mother country and fought
for it and got it was called Whigs and the party against indepen-
dence was the Tory party and fought against it, but was defeated ;
yet they remained Tories, for I can remember hearing one of them
in Wythe county when he got drunk, "halloo" for King George, &c.
The present revolution for independence and a separation from
Northern tyrants, or rather Northern Goths and vandals, against
Washington County, 1777-1870. 525
So'Uthern rights is tenfold greater than the first revolution^ and in
all respects like it, as to the parties Whig and Tory. Bnt I believe
it will end just like the first revolution.
"1861. July 4th. Cold all day. The evening train took Captain
David Campbell Dunn's company to General Floyd's Brigade at
Wytheville, seventy-eight men and boys.
"1861. July 16th. To-day awful news from General Garnett's
command at Beverly, Eandolph county. Fulkerson's regiment is
part of it. Colonel Fulkerson's regiment is composed of five com-
panies from Abingdon and county, two from Eussell, one from
Davis and one company from Lee county. The news is that all are
killed and taken and that General Garnett is killed.
"1861. July 33d. News this morning of a great battle fought on
the 31st, last Sunday, at Manassas, between the Southern forces
and Lincoln's ISTorthern or black army, in which the latter lost
25,000 men killed, the South 15,000. If this be true it beats
Waterloo, for the South had only 60,000, while the Korth had
95,000.
"1861. July 36th. Colonel John A. Campbell's regiment left
for Staunton to-day, ten companies, three companies from Wash-
ington county, nine companies of old Washington county now in
the field. Colonel Campbell has Captain White's and David Camp-
bell's and J. C. Campbell's companies.
"1861. August 31. This morning at five o'clock the house trem-
bled and shook, the window sash rattled so much that it awakened
all, the rocking of the house awakened me. I never felt such a
sensation before, the house appeared to be standing on something,
the house would quiver and rattle like it would fall.
"1861. September 1st. Two trains at ten o'clock with 1,100
troops, one company of eighty-two from Mobile, Alabama, and the
balance from New Orleans, mashed up at the bridge west of
Abingdon depot, killing one and wounding twenty odd, the front
engine with the conductor cut loose and went on towards Lynch-
burg, the other engine was mashed up in the wreck, but the engineer
and conductor left rather suspiciously.
"September 3d. The soldier scalded in the mash up died last
night.
"1861. September 21st. John M. Preston died this morning at
Seven-Mile Ford.
52() Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1186.
•'18G1. September 2-itli. Charles G. Preston, son of F. H. Pres-
ton, died on the 15th. He belonged to the Greenbrier Cavalry, was
in the retreat from Laurel Hill in July last when General Garnett
was killed.
"18G1. September 28th. No trains from the East yesterday, no
mail, the rivers were higher yesterday than any one recollects,
hO'Uses were taken off where never known before. The whole roof
of one house was left on the bank of the river below Mr. Cole's
on the Middle Fork. Tlie Holston river was six feet higher than
ever known before.
"18G1. October 1st. Part of a company of horse got here last
evening from Kentucky.
"1861. October 3d. Hon. John C. Breckenridge and William
Preston, of Kentucky, got to Abingdon to-day.
"18G1. October 14th. A company of horse, 111 from Kentucky
by way of Pound Gap, got here this evening, all armed with double-
barreled shot-guns, under Captain Desha.
"18G1. October 15. I was wrongly informed as to the arms of
the Kentuckians, they have Minnie rifles and muskets, and were a
part of the State guard. Three thousand dollars reward for the
above-mentioned Captain Desha ; his father is here with him.
"1861. October 30th. The Kentucky company took the cars for
Qeneral Buckner's headquarters by way of Nashville, Tennessee,
and all took the oath this morning. One of the Kentuckians by
accident shot himself through the arm above and below the elbow.
"1861. November 13th. This day the Cherokee artillery of Geor-
gia got here from Goldsboro, North Carolina. The train with
most of the regiment ran off near Senter depot last night and
killed three and hurt several. They have three brass six-pounders
and one iron rifled six-pounder.
"1861. November 25t]i. Twenty of Colonel Jenkins' cavalry got
here to-day from Dublin, where they took ninety-four prisoners
captured at Guyandotte on the 17th.
"1861. November 26th. Colonel Stewart's Fifty-sixth Virginia
Volunteer Pegiment got to Abingdon depot to-night on their way
to Pound Gap to join General Humphrey Marshall.
"1861. December 9th. Three hundred cavalry, Colonel Phillips,
of Georgia Legion, got here to-day from Tory mountains of Vir-
Washington Comity, 1777-1870. 527
ginia, and left for Taylorsville, Term., the Tory moimtains of
Tennessee. The balance of the regiment is behind.
"N. B. — The above regiment is said to be the Fifty-seventh Vir-
ginia, and that a battalion from North Carolina went about the
same time after night and stopped at Bristol.
"1861. December 8th. There are now at the depot six cannon,
two of them rifled, and twenty-four carriages.
"1861. December 31st. Mrs. Humes died to-day, General Floyd's
Brigade has been going for the last week on the railroad from the
Tory mountains of Virginia to Bowling Green, Kentucky.
"1862. March 16th. Jacob Lynch died this morning at two
o'clock, his brother Daniel died at Estillville, Scott county, the 16th
of March, 1843, at 12 o'clock.
"1862. May 18th. Adam Hickman died this morning at twenty
minutes past nine o'clock, lias been in bad health for about ten
years.
"1862. July 1st. It rained very liard at sundown, just after the
train got to the depot with the remains of Colonel Fnlkerson, who
was shot the evening of the 27th, in the battle below Kichmond in
a charge on the enemy's battery, which was taken, but the Colonel
died the 28th, at twelve o'clock at night. His place cannot be
filled in Southwest Virginia, and I doubt if it can be in the State.
He was buried July 2d at twelve o'clock.
"1862. November 6th. got home to-day from
Kentucky ; has been there almost two months ; brought a fine Bowie
knife of a Union Tory and his cap (tip too)
killed him. Nothing now on this continent in the shape of man
but thieves, robbers and murderers.
"1862. December 22d. Jerry and Jim, slaves of Allen, of Ten-
nessee, were convicted for the murder of William McDaniel on the
farm of Colonel John Preston and sentenced to be hung on the
23d day of January, 1863.
"1862. December 31st. It is said that 1,500 or 3,000 cavalry
(Yanks) came through Stone Gap, and got to Blountville, the 30th,
and took it.
"1863. Jannary 23d. This day between twelve and one o'clock
Jerry and Jim were hung in the Academy field for the murder of
William McDaniel in October, 1862.
"1863. March 4th. This night, 1841, Charles B. Coale and
528 Soutluvest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
mj'self were converted by Dave Shaver in what is called the Kadical
Church, to Methodism ; Hum —
"1863. March 28th. Yesterday was Jeff Davis' fast day, whether
the people fasted or not I don't know, but they went to the different
churches.
"18G2. November 22d. William Fields died the 22d of Novem-
ber, 1862, in the fifty-second year of his age, no better man has
lived or died in Washington county. His father died New Year's
morning 1829, just such a man."
By the fall of the year 1862, the Southern sympathizers living in
the State of Kentucky were compelled to leave their homes, and
the provisional Grovernor of that State, after being inaugurated at
Frankfort, Kentucky, on the 4th of October, was forced to leave his
State and had his headquarters in Abingdon on the 31st of October.
In the month of December, 1862, shoes in Abingdon brought
from $10 to $12 per pair, boots from $20 to $30 per pair, a pair of
jeans pants, $20 ; a jeans coat, $30 to $40 ; a bushel of corn, $2.50
to $3 ; a bushel of wheat, $4 ; a barrel of flour, $25, and a bushel of
sweet potatoes. $5.
The people of this county were greatly excited by the invasion
of East Tennessee by about fifteen himdred Federal troops under
the command of G-eneral Carter.
At the time. General Humphrey Marshall with his brigade was
at Abingdon, and immediately started in pursuit, accompanied by
a volunteer company from this county under Lieutenant Warren
M. Hopkins.
The invaders succeeded in destroying the railroad bridge across
the Holston and Watauga rivers and made their escape.
In January, 1863, the GrOvernor of Virginia made a requisition
upon the authorities of Washington county for one hundred and
twenty slaves to work upon the fortifications around Richmond,
which request was complied with, after some time.
The court directed the sheriff and his deputies to ascertain the
number of slaves in the county of all ages and sexes and the num-
ber of male slaves between the ages of eighteen and forty-five
years. The sheriff and his deputies and the commissioners of the
revenue reported, ascertaining the number of slaves in this county
to be twenty-seven hundred and eighty-seven, and the number of
male slaves between the ages of eighteen and forty-five years to
WasUngion County, 1777-1870. 529
be six hundred and fourteen; thereupon the court directed Tobias
Smith, Jolin N. Humes, Abram Mongle and Joseph W. Davis to
apportion the one hundred and twenty slaves required from this
county, upon the male slaves between the ages of eighteen and
forty-five years, and required the slave-holders of the county to
deliver his or her quota of slaves to the sheriff of this county at
Abingdon, Goodson and Glade Spring on the 21st of February,
1863, and Jolm L. Bradley and Moses Brooks were appointed
agents or overseers for such slaves, and Floyd B. Hurt was directed
to notify the railroad company of the number of slaves to be sent
from this county to Richmond.
At the same term of the court an order was entered appointing
the Eev. Thomas Catlett agent for the county to proceed to North
Carolina to purchase cotton yarn and domestic for the destitute
families of soldiers in this county.
In the summer of the year 1863, the portion of salt allotted to
this county from the Saltworks was distributed among the people
by T. G. McConnell, William R. Rhea and Robert C. Allison, in
quantities not less than ten bushels and at $2 per bushel.
On Thursday evening, the 10th of September, 1863, Rebecca
Lynch and Elizabeth Murray, of this ooimty, were under an oak
tree near Lynch's Spring on the turnpike at the head of McBroom's
mill-dam, with twO' Confederate soldiers, during a storm. Light-
ning struck the tree under which they had taken shelter and the
four persons were killed.
In the fall of the year 1863, Washington coimty was overrun by
stragglers and deserters from the army, claiming to belong to the
cavalry service. These men traveled about and over the county in
bands of from two to twenty, and robbed the citizens indiscrimi-
nately of their money, clothing, horses, saddles, bridles, their grain
and forage, by force and actual violence, and such was the condi-
tion of affairs that the County Court of Washington county
appealed to the General Assembly of the State for a remedy, stat-
ing that they had appealed to the military authorities, but without
avail.
In the fall of 1862 and the spring and summer of 1863 several
companies of infantry and cavalry were organized in this connty —
viz.: Company E, of the Sixty-third Virginia Regiment, Captain
David 0. Rush; Company F, of the Sixty-third Virginia Regiment,
530 Southwest 'Virginia, nife-llSG.
Captain James Snodgi-ass; Company C, of the Twenty-first Vir-
ginia Eegiment, Captain R. J. Preston; Company , Twenty-
iirst Virginia Cavalry, Captain Fred Gray.
In the fall of this year another requisition was made upon the
county autlioritics for eighty slaves to work upon the fortifications
at Saltville.
The county had been tlireatened with an invasion by the enemy
during the fall of the year and had been overrun as before
described, and the County Court, at the October term, petitioned
the Governor to exempt this county from the requisition, but their
petition was refused and the slaves were furnished early in the year
18G4.
At tlie same term of the court an order was entered appointing
-lohn Roberts a general agent for the county to purchase supplies
for the families of soldiers who were in indigent circumstances,
and district agents were appointed in the several districts of the
county with authority to purchase supplies for the same purpose
and to draw upon John G. Ivreger for such sums of money as
were needed for tlie purpose.
At the November court, 1863, the districts of the commissioners
of revenue for the county were designated, pursuant to an Act
of Assembly, the Western District being No. 1, and the Eastern
District No. 2.
By December, 1863, the condition of affairs was such that the
people of the county were threatened with a famine for bread, and
the County Court entered an order calling the attention of the Con-
federate- authorities at Richmond to the condition of affairs in this
county and asking their aid in every legitimate way to prevent any
further appropriation of the means of the people of this county to
the support of the army.
On the 16th of September, 1863, a company was organized at
Abingdon for home defence. This company was officered as fol-
lows:
Captain, Peter C. Johnson.
First Lieutenant, Joseph T. Campbell.
Second Lieutenant, Charles F. Keller.
Third Lieutenant, W. R. Trigg.
A full complement of sergeants and corporals were appointed
and Saturday was fixed as the day for drilling. This was the sec-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 531
ond company organized for home defence in the town, the first com-
pany having been organized on the 22d of June, 1863, and was
officered as follows:
A. C. Cummings, captain.
John A. Campbell, first lieutenant.
G. V. Litchfield, second lieutenant.
Charles F. Keller, first sergeant.
James L. Davis, second sergeant.
Henry Roberts, third sergeant.
John Leach, fourth sergeant.
James A. King, fifth sergeant.
James S. Munsey, first corporal.
These two companies undertook the protection of this community
upon ordinary occasions and discharged their duties well.
In the spring of this year. Colonel William E. Peters was elected
to represent this district in the Senate of Virginia, while Colonel
A. C. Cummings and Captain George Graham were elected to
represent the county in the House of Delegates, but, in the fall. Colo-
nel Peters resigned his position as a member of the Senate of Vir-
ginia, and Colonel Joseph J. Graham, of Wythe, was elected to fill
the vacancy.
The tlii-eatened invasion by the Federal troops from the West was
so imminent that on the 16th of October, 1863, Abingdon was
honored with two major and six brigadier-generals — to-wit: Ean-
som, Samuel Jones, Corse, Wharton, Williams, W. E. Jones, Jack-
son and C'rittenden.
By January 1, 1864, this county had furnished at least two
thousand men, nearly all volunteers, to the army of the Confederate
States, and had been subjected to the necessity of having quartered
on them large numbers of troops, and provisions and forage were
scarcer in the county than they had been for many years. Serious
apprehensions were felt that the poor of the county and the families
of soldiers would suffer. During the fall of 1863, the brigades of
Generals Corse, Jones and Wharton were encamped near Abing-
don for more than a month, and had consumed large quantities of
provision and forage. There were at this time about one thousand
sick and wounded soldiers in the three hospitals in the county.
But, notwithstanding the situation of the people of the county,
in the month of ]\Iarch, 1864, officers were impressing in the lower
532 Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
end of this county ail provisions to be found except five bushels of
giuin and fifty pounds of beef or bacon to each adult of tlie family,
and one-half the quantity for those under fourteen years of age,
for use by General Longstreet's forces, and by tlie sumniar of this
year, wheat sold at $30 per bushel and corn at $24.
It seems tliat such a condition of affairs would have been unbear-
able, but such was the patriotism and loyalty of our people to their
Commonwealth, that they, with but little hesitation, furnished the
officers of the Confederate government the greater portion of all the
grain and provision that they could possibly secure.
General Buekner and General Morgan were both in Abingdon on
the first of April, 1864.
A portion of General Morgan's Brigade were encamped for a
few days near our town.
On the 5th day of February, 1864, a young man by the name of
Jacob Mullens, of Wise county, Virginia, was shot by order of
Colonel Prentiss, in West Abingdon, at the location of the colored
graveyard. Mullens had deserted from his company and Joined the
enemy. The Abingdon paper in speaking of Mullens says: "He
was an exceedingly ignorant young man, almost a heathen, having
never read the Bible, nor heard it read until after his conviction,
and never heard a sermon in his life. The chaplain of the post
and several other ministers here gave him the benefit of their coun-
sel and consolation, and he seemed to be penitent. He was greatly
affected on the day of his execution, but exhibited a good deal of
firmness and composure after arriving at the place of execution.
He was sitting upon his coffin with his fingers in his ears when the
order to fire was given. He expired almost immediately, five balls
having pierced his breast.^^*
This is but one instance of the many that happened during the
war, such executions being necessary to enforce discipline and to
render the armies of the Confederacy effective.
The first day of April, 1864, was set apart as a day of humilia-
tion, fasting and prayer throughout our Southland, and tliat day
was observed by all our people.
On the same day James K. Gibson resigned his office as Con-
••" Abiugdon Virginian."
Washington County, 1777-1870. 533
federate States Depositary at Abingdon, and Floyd B. Hurt was
appointed his successor.
The Comity Court at its April term, 1864, directed that $50,000
be levied upon the county to buy grain in Georgia or elsewhere to
be distributed among the poor and the families of soldiers who
were in indigent circumstances in this county, and Aaron L. Hen-
dricks was appointed to purchase the said corn and have it con-
veyed to this county, and committees were appointed in each of the
magisterial districts of the county to solicit subscriptions and
relieve the sufferings of the people as far as possible.
The County Court at this time had on hand six hundred and
eighty bushels of salt, which was much more valuable than the Con-
federate currency and county scrip, and the court directed Jonas
S. Kelly to convey this salt to^ Tennessee and exchange the same for
corn, to relieve the suffering families of the soldiers of this county.
The indebtedness of Washington county on the 23d of May, 1864,
Avas ascertained to be $53,648.66.
To add to the sufferings of the people of the county, small-pox in
a dangerous form appeared in the vicinity of Abmgdon, produc-
ing a great deal of uneasiness among the people.
On the 3d day of September, 1864, General John H. Morgan,
who had been of great service to the people of this county, was
foully murdered at the residence of Mrs. Dr. Williams in Green-
ville, Tennessee. He was betrayed by a young Mrs. Williams, who
had left her home upon the coming of General Morgan, and
informed the Federal troops of the whereabouts of General Mor-
gan and the number of guards on duty, and on Sunday morning
the 3d, the house where General Morgan was sleeping was sur-
rounded by Federal troops, and in attempting to escape General
Morgan was shot through the right breast and killed, his body
thrown across a horse and paraded through the streets of the town.
On Monday night the remains of General Morgan arrived at
Abingdon, and were taken to the residence of Judge Campbell in
the vicinity,* where Mrs. Morgan with one or two relatives were
sojourning. On Tuesday evening at 4 o'clock, funeral services weire
performed by Chaplain Cameron, and the procession formed by
General George B. Crittenden. It was the largest and most impoa-
*Aoklin, home of Mr. Mingea.
534 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
ing procession of the sort ever seen in this part of the country. The
order was as follows :
1st. Jlearse, with the body and guards on each side, withouC
arms.
2d. Chaplains.
3d. Family of deceased.
4th. Military family, mounted by twos.
Sth,. Military court, mounted by twos.
6th. Officers of the army, mounted by twos.
.'('th. Privates^ mounted by twos.
8th. Citizens, mounted by twos.
9th. Citizens, dismounted.
As the sun went down behind dark masses of clcnids in the West,
emblematic of the sorrow and glooui that pervaded the vast con-
course in attendance, all that was mortal of the immortal John H.
Morgan A\-as consigned to the rest of the tomb, there to sleep,
unmindful of the clash of arms and the terrible tread of armies,
until the trump that marshals the buried millions shall break his
slumbers.
The remains of General Morgan were interred in Sinking Spring
Cemetery, but were subsequently removed to his home in Kentucky.
General Morgan was succeeded in his command by General Duke,
of Kentucky, but from this time forward the people of this county
were without hope and calmly awaited the inevitable.
The subscription price of the "Abingdon Virginian," at this time
was $8 per year.
BATTLE OF SALTVILLE.
Major-General Burbridge, in command of about five thousand
Federal troops, at this time entered A'irgiuia l)y way of Pikeville,
Kentucky, and proceeded up the Big Sandy and crossed the moun-
tains into Tazewell county at Eichlands. At the same time Gen-
eral Gillem, at the head of a considerable force of Federal troops,
was making every effort tO' enter Virginia from East Tennessee, but
the progress of Gill'em was greatly retarded by the efforts of
General Vaughan, who was in command of a considerable body of
Confederate troops in that section.
It was known that the destination of General Burbridge and
General Gillem was the Saltworks in this county, and the reserves
Washington County,- 1777-1870. 535
of this county (being boys under seventeen and men over forty-
live years of age) were called upon to organize for the purpose of
defending their homes, and, by the 30th day of September, four
companies were ready for service under the command of Colonol
James T. Preston, as follows :
Company I, Captain Thomas Patterson.
Company C, Captain William B. Campbell.
Company E, Captain John W. Worley.
Company F, Captain William Barrow.
A portion of these companies were organized some time pre-
vious to this time.
At the same time. General Vaughan with his forces was ordered
to Saltville from East Tennessee, where he had, until this time,
successfully opposed the advance of General Gillem's Brigade.
When it was known that General Vaughan had been ordered to
Saltville, such a stampede as occurred among the people of this
section had never before been witnessed in this county. The roads
were crammed and blocked with cattle, sheep, negroes, wagons, bug-
gies and great numbers of citizens with their families. The scene
was almost indescribable, and Abingdon was deserted, with the
exception of a very few old men, ^^'omen and children.
About seven hundred reserves had gathered at Saltville under
the command of C^olonel Robert Smith, of Tazewell; Colonel Robert
Preston, of Montgomery; Colonel James T. Preston, of Wash-
ington, and Colonel Kent, of Wythe.
Colonel Robert Trigg, of the Fifty-fourth Virginia Regiment,
being at Saltville at that time, took charge od: this force and was
actively engaged in organizing' it wlien General A. E. Jackson
arrived and took connnand and began to plan the defences of the
place.
General Burbridge had followed the State road from • Kentucky
into Tazewell county and from Richlands directed his course by
Cedar Bluff toward the Saltworks.
Giltner's Brigade, composed of the Fourth Kentucky, Johnson's
Battalion, Jenkin's Battalion, Clay's Battalion, the Tenth Ken-
tucky Cavalry and the Sixty-fourth Virginia Regiment, met Bur-
bridge's army at Cedar BlufP, and from that point disputed his
advance at every opportunity from the 30th day of September
536 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
until he had passed Laurel Gap in Clinch mountain on Saturday,
October 1, 1864.
This brigade of Confederate troops was composed of probably
the best soldiers in the Confederate army and numbered about
twelve hundred men.
They not only assailed Burbridge's army at every opportunity,
but cut trees across the road and placed every obstruction in the
way that could be thought of to retard tlie progress of the Federal
army through Tazewell county, and, notwithstanding the superior
forces commanded by Burbridge, the Federal army was unable to
pass through the Laurel Gap in Clinch moimtain for more than a
day.
When Giltner's Brigade had, by superior strength, been driven
from the Laurel Gap, it was divided into two sections of about
equal numbers, the first section passing down the Poor Valley road
destroying bridges and obstructing the road in every possible way.
This force was commanded by Dr. E. 0. Guerrant, of Giltner's
staff, and Colonel Pryor, of the Fourth Kentucky, while the second
section crossed the river and followed the Valley road to Saltville,
and was under the command of Colonel H. L. Giltner.
Colonel Giltner expected Burbridge with his army to march
to the Saltworks that night, and if he had, the capture of the works
would have been inevitable, but, to the surprise of the Confederate
forces, Burbridge's army went into camp in the bottom on the south
of Laurel Gap and remained imtil the following morning, Sunday,
October 2, 1864.
The Federal forces began their march to Saltville and arrived on
the north side of the river near Governor Saunder's residence
between nine and ten A. M. of that day, and in the meantime and
on the morning of the same day. General John S. Williams, of
Wheeler's Cavalry, arrived at Saltville, with his division, which
was composed of Eobertson's Brigade, of soldiers from Texas,
Dibrell's Brigade and the ISTinth iCentucky Cavalry commanded by
Colonel William C. P. Breckenridge.
The Confederate forces at Saltville at this time were as follows :
Colonel H. L. Giltner's Brigade, composed of the Fourth Ken-
tucky, commanded by Colonel Pryor ; Tenth Kentucky, commanded
by Colonel Edwin Trimble; Johnson's Battalion, Kentucky troops;
Clay's Battalion, Kentucky troops; Jenkins' Battalion, Kentucky
troops; the Sixty-fourth Virginia Regiment, commanded by
Washington County, 1777-1870. 537
Colonel A. L. Pridemore; Brigadier-General John. S. Williams'
Brigade, composed of Eobertson's Brigade, commanded by General
Eobertson; Dibrell's Brigade, commanded by General George Dib-
rell; Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, commanded by Colonel William
C. P. Breckenridge ; First Kentucky, commanded by Colonel Grif-
fith; the Thirteenth Battalion of Virginia reserves, commanded
by Lieutenant-Colonel Eobert Smith, of Tazewell county, the rank-
ing colonel then present. This battalion was composed of the fol-
lowing companies:
Company A, Smyth county, commanded by Lieutenant James
Golahon.
Company B, Tazewell county, commanded by Captain Samuel L.
Graham.
Company C, Washington county, commanded by Tjieutenant
J. S. Booher.
Company D, Smyth county, commanded by Anderson.
Company F, Washington county, commanded l\v Captain Wil-
liam Barrow.
Company G, Russell county, commanded by Captain A. P.
Gilmer.
Company H, Tazewell county, commaiided by Captain George E.
Starnes.
Company I, Washington county, commanded by Captain Thomas
E. Patterson.
Company E, Washington county, commanded by Captain Henry
B. Eoberts, Avas on duty at Abingdon, and did not reach the battle-
ground until about sundown of October 2d.
Kent's Battalion, commanded by Colonel Kent and Major Houn-
shell, of Wythe.
This battalion was composed of several companies of militia from
Wythe, Carroll and Grayson counties; the officers' names I do not
know.
The forces at Saltville were under command of General A. E.
Jackson until about 9 :30 of the morning of the day of the battle,
when he was succeeded by General Williams, who arrived at that
time, and took command of all- the forces then at Saltville.
General Williams began his preparations for the battle and
arranged his forces as follows:
Colonel James T. Preston, with one hundred and twenty reserves.
538 Sovfhwesl Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
was directed to form a skirmish line along the river and to defend
the ford one-half a mile above the lower works.
The line of battle was formed from right to left on the south side
of the river, the right wing of the army fronting the residence of
Governor Saunders, the forces being arranged in the following
order :
To the north of the road and on the extreme left the First Ken-
tucky, Colonel Griffith, and, in the order named, to the right, the
Ninth Kentucky Cavalry, Colonel William C. P. Breckenridge,
Giltner's Brigade, as follows: Fourth Kentucky, Colonel Pryor;
Johnson's Battalion, Colonel Thomas Johnson; Jenkins' Bat-
talion, Captain Jenkins; Clay's Battalion, Colonel Clay; Sixty-
fourth Virginia Eeginient, Colonel A. L. Pridemore; Tenth Ken-
tucky, Colonel Edwin Trimble — this last regiment defending the
ford.
To the south of the road and facing Governor Saunders' resi-
dence, in the order named, the Thirteenth Battalion of Virginia
Eeserves, Colonel Eo. Smith; Kent's Battalion, Colonel Kent;
Eobertson's Brigade, General Eobertson, and Dibrell's Brigade,
General George Dibrell — this last brigade forming the extreme
right of the army, wliile the artillery under the command of Cap-
tain John W. Barr, was placed on Church Hill, north of the pub-
lic road near the position occupied by the First Kentucky and in a
position that commanded the advance of the enemy.
William King's Battery was to the south of Eobertson's Brigade
and south of the ridge, and did not have an opportunity to take
part in the battle.
The Federal forcas were partly on the north side of the river
and partly south of the river and east of Dibrell's Brigade. Such
was the position of the opposing forces when an overwhelming force
of Federal troops, colored soldiers, assaulted Dibrell's Brigade,
which brigade retired to the west side of Cedar creek, and had every
advantage of the attacking forces.
A part of Kenf s Battalion of Eeserves commanded by Major
Hounshell and stationed east of and near to Governor Saunders'
house, thinking that Dibrell's Brigade were acting in a cowardly
manner and not being themselves accustomed to war, refused to leave
their position and for some time and without any assistance main-
tained the contest against overwhelming numbers, suffering the loss
Washington County, 1777-1870. 539
of a number of excellent men, Major Hoimshell himself exhibiting a
bravery never excelled, but after some time this force was induced
to retire to the west side of Cedar creek, and at this point the
battle began in earnest, and in a few mojuents the colored regiment
was repulsed with groat numbers killed, Colonel Dibrell's Brigade
being especially effective in mowing down the advancing enemy.
About the time of the attack on Dibroll's Brigade the Federal
troops attempted to foice the ford at the position occupied by the
Tenth Kentucky, and the right wing of Colonel G-iltner's Brigade,
notwithstanding the fact that they fouglit with determined bravery,
were gradually pressed back a short distance from their ]X)sition by
a whole brigade of the enemy commanded by Colonel Hanson, and
every field officer of the Tenth Kentucky was killed or wounded at
this time.
Colonel Trigg, seeing the situation of Giltner's Brigade, detached
two companies from Kent's Battalion, Wythe and Carroll compa-
uies, and sent them forward under the command of Colonel Kent
to reinforce Colonel Giltner.
The two companies thus sent to the assistance of Colonel Giltner
were soon in the thickest of the fight and lost twenty-four men,
including Captain Shockley and First Lieutenant Bolt of the cav-
alry company.
The artillery, under command of Captain Barr, did very effec-
tive work. The reserves under the command of Colonel Eobert
Smith, Colonel Eoliert Preston and Colonel Kent, were in the thick-
est of the fight, and their gallantry and bravery upon this occasion
were highly commended at tlie time and have since been the pride of
all the citizens of Southwest Virginia.
The force commanded by Colonel James T. Preston was attacked
at about two o'clock by a brigade of infantry and a regiment of
cavalry under Colonel Charles Hanson, but held their position from
two o'clock in the afternoon until dark, with the assistance of about
one hundred men from the Tenth Kentucky Eegiment. About
one-half an hour l^efore dark. Colonel Hanson, who commanded the
enemy's forces, was wounded and thereupon withdrew. The battle
lasted from ten o'clock in the morning till sundown of the same
day, and resulted in the precipitate retreat that night of General
Burbridge to Kentucky by the road thiit lie had come, hotly pur-
sued by the Confederate forces.
540 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
The forces engaged in tliis battle were, according to the official
report of General Burbridge, four thousand eight hundred picked
troops on the Federal side, while not more than three thousand
men, including the reserves, were on the Confederate side.
The Federal loss in killed and wounded in this battle was about
three hundred and fifty, the number of prisoners captured is
variously estimated at from three to twelve hundred. The Federals
left dead upon the field one hundred and four white and one hun-
dred and fifty-six negro soldiers.
The Confederate loss was eight killed and fifty-one wounded,
among the killed being Colonel Trimble and Lieutenant Crutch-
field, of the Tenth Kentucky Eegiment.
General John C. Breckenridge, who was in command of this
department at that time, reached the field of battle about sun-down,
and General Vaughan, who had made a forced march from East
Tennessee, Math his own and Duke's and Cosby's Brigades, reached
the field of battle just as the enemy began to^ withdraw and in time
to hear the shout of victory given along the lines of this gallant
army of Confederate soldiers.
It was thought at the time that the bravery exhibited in this con-
test by the reserves from Southwest Virginia was equal to the
bravery exhibited by the citizens of this county at King's mountain
in 1780.
General Burbridge was not only hotly pursued by the victorious
forces, but he was assailed at all points upon his retreat, and escaped
into Kentucky with great loss.
This victory, if it could have been the fortune of our country to
take advantage of it, as did our forefathers of the battle of
King's mountain, might have turned the tide of the war and won
for the South her independence. But the condition of our country
at this time was hopeless.
The greater portion of the South had been overrun by the Fed-
eral forces, and the armies of the Confederacy were starving and
naked, while the families of the soldiers with the greatest difficulty
kept starvation from the door.
The County Court of this county at the November term, 1864,
appropriated $10,000 to be used for this purpose.
The last call for troops was made by the Confederate States
in the month of November, and met with a hearty response from
Washington County, 1777-1870. 541
our authorities, but, as the county was about drained of its male
population, the court of this county petitioned the Secretary of War
of the Confederate States to exempt from this call two to four men
in each of the nine districts of the county, blacksmiths, wagon-
makers, coffin-makers, shoemakers, tanners, one physician, and one
miller. The names of the men thus asked to be exempted were fur-
nished to the Secretary of War and entered of record by said court.
General Burbridge, shortly after his return to Kentucky, united
his forces with those of Generals Stoneman and Gillem, making an
army of at least ten thousand men, and again began the march for
Southwest Virginia. The people of this county were informed of the
movements of the Federal troops, but were so reduced by the pov-
erty and want that surrounded them upon all sides and the almost
total absence from the county of men able to bear arms, that the
march of the Federal troops met with but little resistance. The
people were expecting the arrival of the Federal troops for several
days preceding the 14th day of December, 1864, and on the even-
ing of the 14th at about nine-thirty o'clock, the report of the guns
of the Federal pickets was heard at the western outskirts of Abing-
don.
A part of General Duke's command of Confederate soldiers was
encamped at the farm of James A. Bailey, a few miles noTtheast of
Abingdon, and a number of soldiers from that camp were in Abing-
don at the time the fire of the Federal pickets was heard.
These soldiers undertook to delay the Federals in entering the
town, but a company of the Federal troops advanced up Main
street, firing at intervals, and when they had reached a point oppo-
site the residence of S. N. Honaker, a discharge from their guns
in the direction of the court-house caused Duke's men, who had
formed a line at the intersection of Court and Main streets to
rapidly disperse in the direction of their camp at Bailey's.
General Stoneman, after taking possession of the town, passed
on rapidly in the direction of the Lead Mines, having directed the
burning of the Virginia and Tennessee depot, Hurt's store, Sinon's
wagon-shop, Musser's wagon-shop, the county jail and the barracks
opposite the jail, at the corner of Court and Valley streets. All of
the places thus burned were occupied by the officials of the Con-
federate States and in all of them were stored Confederate supplies.
The Federal commander issued orders forbidding the troops to
543 Southwest Virginia, 17 Jf 6-17 86.
enter private houses or to pluiuler or bum any portion of the town
other than the places mentioned.
A number of Federal soldiers and stragglers remained at a black-
smith shop in the east tmd of the town on the morning of the 15th
for the purpose of having their horses shod.
A company of Confederate soldiers numbering about twenty men,
being a part of Colonel Lee's regiment from Mississippi, had
become detached from their regiment and were following in the
rear of Stoneman's army, capturing, plundering and harassing the
enemy to as great an extent as possible.
This company reached i\bingdon some time during the night oi
December 1-itli, and encamped on the Glebe land back of the reser-
voir, and early on the morning of the 15th, sent one of their num-
ber disguised in Federal uniform into the town to see what was
going on.
About the time this messenger reached Abingdon, a straggler
from the Federal army by the name of James (Tites) Wyatt, who
had been reared in this community and had served as an apprentice
to Gabriel Stickley, rode into town, dressed in Federal uniform,
and declared his purpose to bui'u the town, because, as he said,
"Noble I. McGinnis, a prominent citizen of the town and a member
of the County Court, had some time previous to the war, pun-
ished him for an oft'ence of which he was not guilty." He dis-
mounted in front of the court-house, had a negro to hold his horse,
went to the cupola of the court-house and set it on fire. He then
remounted and proceed to fire all the buildings on the south side
of :\Iaiii street, riding into the buildings and firing them as he
went. After he had partially completed his work, he halted his
horse at the intersection of Main and Court street, in front of the
store now kept by Nidermaier & Bai'bee, put his leg across the horn
of the saddle and watched the fire as it rapidly devoured the build-
ings on eith.er side of the street.
He would not permit any one to extinguish the flames. In the
meantime the messenger from the camp of the Confederate soldiers
had returned and reported the presence in the town of the Federal
soldiers at John G. Clark's blacksmith shop, and the firing of the
town by Wyatt.
While Wyatt was occupying the position last stated, this com-
pany of Confederate soldiers, partially disguised in Federal uni-
Washington Ootinty, 1777-1870. 543
form, were seen rapidly galloping down the hill fronting Jackson
Institute, and from that point they b^gan to disperse, a part of the
soldiers turning to the right and to the left at Hayes and Slaughter
streets. After passing Slaughter street, two of the number kept up
Main street, the others following Valley and Water streets to' the east
end of the town. The twO' that came up Main street were named
John and Samuel Findlay, and were from Holly Springs, Miss.
When they had reached a point near the residence of N. K. White,
Samuel Findlay asked a number of boys as to the whereabouts of
the man who was firing the town. In answer, a boy by the name
of Deady pointed out Wyatt at the corner of Main and Court
streets. Thereupon Findlay began to fire upon him, and Wyatt
began to call to Findlay that he was shooting at his own men, but
Findlay continued to fire, and Wyatt, getting himself in position,
rushed his horse by the Findlays, going toward the west end of the
town. Samuel Findlay thereupon turned his horse and pursued
Wyatt to Hayes street, when Wyatt's horse turned to the left and
Wyatt fell to the ground, mortally wounded. Findlay captured
Wyatt's horse, and soon joined his fellows in the east end of the
town.
John Findlay did not halt his horse as he passed Wyatt at the
court-house, but rapidly proceeded to the east end of town. Before
he had reached the intersection of the street at Webb's store, the
Federal troops at Clark's blacksmith shop had been charged by the
Confederate soldiers that came down Valley street, and Findlay
joined in the pursuit
One of the Federal soldiers, beyond question a brave man and
bolder than the rest, turned in his saddle as he started east from
Webb's store and deliberately fired upon his pursuers, and, as a
result he was shot from his horse near the residence of A. B. Trigg,
the horse making its escape. The Confederate soldiers thereupon
returned to Abingdon.
The fire started by Wyatt consumed all the buildings, including
tlie courthouse, on both sides of Main street from the Court street
to Brewer's street.
This account of the circumstances attending the burning of
Abingdon was given me by an eye-witness of th'e transaction.*
The Federal troops continued their march to the Lead Mines in
*W. H. Mitchell.
544 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
Wythe county, which they destroyed, and from that point they
returned to Seven-Mile Ford and thence to the right to Saltville.
When they had reached Saltville, some slight resistance was offered
by a number of Confederate soldiers and reserves who were at the
place at that time, but the town was easily captured and the
works destroyed. The particulars of the last visit of the Federal
troops to Saltville it is impossible to obtain at this time, as all
newspaper plants in this country had been destroyed previously
thereto, and the accounts given by persons present at the time are
so conflicting and unreliable tliat T do not undertake to state the
facts.
On the 29th of December, 1864, the County Court of tin's county
appointed Peter J. Branch, John G. Kreger, Joseph T. Campbell
and James Fields, a committee to procure suitable rooms for a
courthouse and clerk's office, and tO' report at that term of the
court. On the same day this committee reported that they had pro-
cured Dunn's store-house, (now the old Arlington Hotel), for one
year, at the price of $1,500. This report was accepted by the court
and the committee before named were directed to proceed at once
and have said building fitted up in a proper manner for the court-
house and clerk's office, and the jail of Smyth county was adopted
as the jail of Washington comity.
Dunn's storehouse, at the time, was occupied by Captain J. G.
Martin, commandant of the military force at this place, as a guard
house, and he declined to surrender possession to the committee
appointed by the County Court, which fact the committee reported
to the court, and the court at its January term, 1865, issued a rule
against Captain Martin, summoning him to appear before the court
at once, and show cause why he should not surrender the pos-
session of the building to the court.
This rule was issued, and Captain Martin appeared before the
court and answered that he had made a report to Major-General
Breckenridge and had received a commimication from Adjutant
J. Stoddard Johnston directing him to hold possession of the
rooms, and that he intended to obey the order, and immediately
retired to an adjoining room and ordered his guard under arms,
some of whom went into court with arms in their hands. The
court evidently thought that this action was taken to intimidate
the court, for thereupon an order was entered referring the matter
Washington County, 1777-1870. 545
to the GoTernor of the Commonwealth, requesting tliat a sufficient
force be ordered out by the Governor to enforce the order of the
County Court of this county.
Nothing more of importance occurred in this county until the
close of the war in the following April.
This county, in addition to furnishing more tlian three thousand
soldiers to the armies of the Confederate States, produced a num-
ber of officers who won distinguished honors in their several
spheres, among them being Generals Joseph E. Jolmson, John B.
Floyd, William E. Jones, William Y. C. Humes, John S. Preston
and Colonels John S. Mosby, Samuel V. Fulkerson, John A.
Campbell, John P. Terry, R. P. Carson, A. C. Cummings, D. C.
Dunn, Connally F. Lynch, James W. Humes, Abram Fulkerson
and many others, all of whom were citizens of this county by birth
or by choice.
The Confederate officers stationed in Abingdon during the war,
so far as I can ascertain, were M. B. Tate, William Rodefer and
E. Crutchfield, quartermasters; R. A. Williams and Francis Smith,
commissaries; John H. Earnest, D. B. Baldwin and J. G. Martin,
provost marshals; James K. Gibson and Floyd B. Hurt, Confeder-
ate States depositaries.
A hospital was maintained in the White House, opposite the
residence of Mrs. John D. Mitchell, during the greater part of the
war, and Dr. Lightfoot, of Kentucky, was the principal surgeon
in charge, in 1864. -The wounded soldiers at this hospital were
attended by Drs. Barr, Heiskell, Pitts and Preston, and received
every attention possible from the ladies of the town.
The close of the war found the people of this county in as de-
plorable a condition as could be imagined — without money, credit,
clothing or the wherewithal to eat, with hundreds of wounded and
disabled soldiers, their farm houses, fences, and farming utensils
destroyed, and with grave apprehensions as to the future.
RECONSTRUCTION, 1865-1870.
Upon tJie surrender of the Confederate armies, the people of Vir-
ginia accepted the situation in good faith and were ready and
willing to resume their former position in the Union and to loy-
ally discharge all the duties imposed thereby. The victors in this
contest had insisted that the one object in view was the preserva-
546 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
tion of the union of the States, and the people of Virginia sup-
posed that it was their dut}^ to proceed with their gO'Vernment as
formerly, and did not anticipate any interference tlierewitli from
the victors.
The people of Washington county, pursuant to the proclamation
of Governor Pierpont, held an election for county officers in this
county on the 3d day of August, 18(55, at which election David C.
(himmings was elected clerk of the circuit court and James C.
('am})bell clerk of the county court of this county, and Eees B.
I^'diiiondson (Jommonwealtirs attorney; James Fields, sheriff;
Commissioners of the Keveiiue, District No. 1, John F. Terry;
District No. 2, D. x\. P. Camj^bell and members of the county
court, constables, and overseers of the poor.
fSoon after this election the attorney-general of the State gave it
as his opinion that all jjersons who had held office imder the Con-
federate States Government were ineligible to office, and as a re-
sult a number of officers elected in July were compelled to resign
in the latter part of this year.
The county court thus elected held several meetings and trans-
acted soine business of importance.
This court, on the 28th of August, 1865, took into consideration
the building of a new jail and courthouse for this county. James
Pulcher, William C. Edmondson and Joseph W. Davis were ap-
pointed a committee to contract for the erection of the new
county jail, while John A. Campbell, Newton. K. White and W.
W. Blackford were appointed a committee to ascertain on what
terms a courthouse and clerk's office could be erected upon the pub-
lic square; and on the same day the court proceeded to classify the
justices foT the performance of their duties in court.
Governor Pierpont, by proclamation, appointed John N. Humes
and Charles J. Cummings commissioners to reorganize the govern-
ment of the county, and pursuant to this authority they adminis-
tered the oaths of office required by law to the members of the
county court.
Governor Pierpont, acting upon the opinion of the attorney-
o-eneral, ordered new elections to be held in the counties of the
State to fill the vacancies occasioned by the resignation of all
county officers who had held Confederate commissions.
The county court, on the 26th day of September, 18G5, directed
Washington County, 1777-1870. 547
the commissioners of election of this coamty to hold an election
in said county on, Thursday, the 12th day of October, 1865, for
the election of a representative in the Congress of the United
States, a member of the Senate, members of the House of Dele-
gates, and to take the vote of the electors upon the question, "Shall
the next General Assembly be clothed with power to alter or amend
tlie third article of the Constitution according to laAv ?"
In this election Daniel Hoge, of Montgomery county, Edmund
Longi'ey and Thomas J. McCulloch, of Washington county, were
candidates for Congress, the election resulting in favor of Daniel
Ploge.
Joseph W. Davis was elected to the State Senate, and Charles S.
Bekem and Josiah Teeter were elected to the House of Delegates,
and a considerable majority was given in favor of clothing the
General Assembly with power to alter or amend the third article
of the Constitution.
The Congress of the United States and the General Assembly of
Virginia assembled in December of .this year. Daniel Hoge was
not permitted to take his seat in Congress, and Virginia was de-
prived of representation in the Congress of the United States from
this time until January 24, 1870.
But the representatives from this county in the Senate and
House of Delegates were permitted to take their seats, and the
business of the General Assembly proceeded without interruption.
Governor Pierpont, pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution,
adopted for the State at Alexandria, Virginia, nominated Judge
John A. Campbell to preside over tliis circuit, which nomination
was confirmed by the Legislature on the 22d of February, 1866,
Judge Campbell receiving the unanimO'US vote of the General As-
sembly.
Eees B. Edmondson, James Fields and John F. Terry were
compelled to resign the offices to which they were elected, and at
a special election held on January 11, 1866, Eees B. Edmondson
was elected Commonwealth's attorney, James L. Campbell sheriff,
and Ben C. Clark commissioner of the revenue in District No. 1.
At the November term, 1865, of the county court of this county,
orders were entered letting to contract the building of a new jail
and directing the fitting up of the Temperance Hall for the use of
the court until a new courthouse could be built, and the court was
548 Southwest Virginia, lllfG-llSe.
lield in the Temperance Hall from the spring of the year 1866 until
the year 1868. The action of the court in occupying the Temper-
ance Hall was authorized by proclamation of Governor Pierpont
in the month of October, 1866.
The government of the county as thus reorganized was in the
hands of tlie best citizens of the county, men who in nearly every
instance had been active supporters of the Government of the
Confederate States.
In the month of December, 1865, York A. Woodward, first lieu-
tenant Twenty-fourth V. R. C, assistant superintendent Eighth
District of Virginia, arrived in Abingdon for the purpose of or-
ganizing the Preedmen's Bureau. His district was composed of the
counties of Washington, Russell, Buchanan, Wise, Scott and Lee.
He established his headquarters at Abingdon and had his office
in the Swedenborgian Temple on Main street, but subsequently
his office M'^as removed to the courthouse by permission of the
countj^ court.
The Freedman's Court for Washington county was organized at
the December term of the county court of this county, and was
constituted as follows: Lieutenant, York A. Woodward, of the
Freedman's Bureau; John N. Humes, Esq., selected by the county
court; Colonel D. C. Dunn, selected by the freedmen. This court
held weekly sessions, commencing Saturday morning of each week
at 9 o'clock.
The purpose of this court was tO' determine all matters of diffi-
culty, civil and criminal, that arose between the whites and the
freedmen, to take a census of the freedmen in the district, to cele-
brate the rites of matrimony between freedmen and freedwomen
and to require all the able-bodied freedmen and freedwomen to
enter into written contracts for their services and to see that the
contracts were faithfully observed by both parties.
The organization of schools for the instruction of freedmen and
freedwomen was also undertaken by this court.
In this year a white man, by the name of Parks, and his wife
came to Abingdon at the instance of the Freedmen's Bureau and
for some time conducted a school for colored children in the build-
ing now occupied by the colored Masons of Abingdon, on the south
side of Water street, the land having been purchased for the pur-
pose. Colonel D. C. Dunn, of his own volition, contributing one-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 549
half the cost. The object sought to be obtained by the Freedmen'*
Bureau was accomplished to a great extent in this community, and
the conduct of Captain Woodward was such as to command the
respect of all good citizens.
Captain Woodward remained Jn Abingdon for some time and
was succeeded by Captain Sherwood.
Upon his departure the Abingdon Virginian said: "The people
of Abingdon and Washington county will regret to hear of the
transfer, as the official conduct of Captain Woodward has been such
as to entitle him to the respect and confidence of those with whom
he had business transactions. The system here worked well under
his direction and, in the main, gave the fullest satisfaction to
both races. The Freedmen's Bureau was abolished in the year 1869.
In January, 186G. the General Assembly of Virginia authorized
the coimty court of Washington county to sell and dispose of its
stock in the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad Company, and the
county court of this county, pursuant to this Act, at the May
term of said court, appointed A. C. Cummings, J. C. Greenway
and James K. Gibson a committee to ascertain for what price these
bonds could be sold and upon what terms a courtliouse could be
built. This committee reported, and the contract for the erection
of the new courthouse was awarded as follows : To Messrs. James
and David Fields, the plastering; Mr. Hockman, of Harrisonburg,
the carpenter's work; Messrs. Keller & Grim, the roofing; Messrs.
Morrison and Vaughan, the painting.
The courthouse thus let to contract was completed in Novem-
ber, 1868, and was occupied by the courts of the county in De-
cember of the same year.
Elections were held throughout the county on the 24th of August,
1866, for field officers in the militia regiments of the county, pur-
suant to an Act of the General Assembly passed on the 2d day of
March, 1866.
At this election the following officers were chosen :
One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Eegiment — Colonel, James L.
F. Campbell; Lieutenant-Colonel, David 0. Eush; Major, Joel W.
Hortenstine ;
One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Eegiment — Colonel, D. A. P.
Campbell; Lieutenant-Colonel, Eobert J. Keller; Major, W. W.
Hurt.
550 Southivest Virginia, 17 46-17 86.
The officers elected in the One Hundred and Fifth Eegiment I
cannot ascertain.
The militia organization of the county, an organization that had
existed from the earliest times, was alwlished by the Constitution
of 1S68.
The ^'loyal" citizens of Virginia wore very much dissatisfied with
the manner in wliich the State and county governments were reor-
ganized and undertook to have tlie Congress of the United States
set aside the government thus organized in Virginia and to es-
tablish a territoral government in its place.
The thirteenth amendment to the Constitution of the United
States had been adopted in the year 1865 without opposition from
the people of this State, but no sooner had the amendment been
adopted than tlie fourteenth amendment to the Constitution was
proposed. This amendment had been vetoed by President Johnson,
but was passed over his veto by a two-thirds vote of both Houses
of Congress.
The General Assembly of A'irginia declined, witli one dissenting
vote, to ratify this amendment.
The Congress of the United States, on the 20th day of Febru-
ary, 1867, passed the Shellabarger bill, which provided that when-
ever the people of any of tlie States lately in rebellion should adopt
a Constitution framed by a convention ol delegates elected by the
male citizens of said State twenty-one years of age and upwards,
of whatever race, color or previous condition (excepting therefrom
such persons as were disfranchised for participation in rebellion),
and when the General Assembly of said State should ratify the
fourteenth amendment to the Constitution, their representatives
should be admitted to seats in the Congress of the United States.
On the 22d day of March, 18G7, another Act was passed over the
veto of the President providing for the registration of the voters
and the calling of constitutional conventions in the States lately
in rebellion.
By the provisions of the Acts in question a great majority of the
white citizens were denied the right to participate in the elections
contemplated, and great uneasiness prevailed, as there was strong
probability that the persons lately freed would he able to control
the State and county organizations.
The Southern States were divided into military districts, this
Washington County, 1777-1870. 551
portion of Virginia being District No. 1, commanded by General
Schofield, and, pursuant to the authority vested in liim l)y tlie
Congress of the United States, on April 2, 18GT, he issued an order
suspending all elections l3y the people until the registration of the
voters had been taken as required by the Act of Congress.
The llegistration Board for this county was appointed by Gren-
eral Schofield, and Captain Jolm O'N'eal Avas elected Pi-esident of
the board for this county.
The registration of the voters of this county began on the 32d
day of June and ended on the 19th of July, 1867. The result of
tlie registration in the nine districts of this county was as follows :
White. Colored.
First District, 276 170
Second District, 336 84
Third District, 351 42
Fourth District, 2,78 15
Fifth District, 309 59
Sixth District, 280 106
Seventh District, 201 38
Eighth Disti'ict, 279 34
Ninth District, 112 19
Total, 2,422 567
Upon the conclusion of tlie registration of the voters in this
county, by oxder of General Schofield an election was ordered to be
held thronghont Virginia on the 22d day of October, 1867, for the
purpose of selecting delegates to a Constitutional Convention to be
held in Eichmond in December, 1867, and by the same order the
counties of Washington and Smyth were made one district and
were entitled to two representatives.
The two parties existing at this time were termed Conservatives
and Radicals, and the candidates voted for in this election were
Joseph T. Campbell and J. H. Thompson, Conservatives, and
G. G. Goodell and Henry C. White, Eadicals. The vote of this
county for delegates in this election and upon the question of tlio
holding of the convention was as follows :
White. Colored.
Campbell (Con), 1,180 5
Thompson (Con), 1,175 5
552 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1186.
Goodell (Rad.), 416 500
White (Rad.), 417 498
For Convention, 423 500
Against Convention, 1,154 5
Campbell and Thompson were elected to represent this district
in the Constitutional Convention. This convention assembled in
the city of Richmond on the 3d day of December, 1867, and was com-
posed of a hundred and five delegates, thirty-three of whom were
Conservatives and seventy-two Radicals.
The Constitution proposed by this convention embodied many
praiseworthy principles, and while some objectionable features
were found in the instrument as originally proposed, it may be
truthfully stated that the Constitution as ratified has given greater
satisfaction to the majority of the people of Virginia than any simi-
lar instrument adopted in the history of our State. The one serious
objection to this Constitution, in the opinion of many, was the
enfranchisement of a gi'eat body of illiterate voters, while on the
other hand it provided for the free school system and gave all the
guarantees necessary to the enjoyment of personal liberty to its
fullest extent.
This Constitution was submitted to the people at an election
held on the 6th day of July, 1869.
At the same time an election was held for Governor, Lieutenant-
Governor, Attorney-General, Congressmen, Senator and Represen-
tatives in the House of Delegates.
At this election the vote of the county was as follows :
For the Constitution, 3,539
Against the Constituton, 35
For Clause 4, 491
Against Clause 4, 3,109
For Section 7, 493
Against Section 7, 3,115
For Governor— G. C. Walker, 1,971
H. H. Wells, 569
For Lieutenant-Governor — J. F. Lewis, 1,969
J. D. Harris, 531
For Attorney-General— J. C. Taylor, 3,043
T. R. Bowden, 663
Washington County, 1777-1870. 553
JFor Congress— J. K. Gibson, 2,026
A. C. Dunn, 13
George S. Smith, 573
For Congress at Large — Joseph Segar, 1,876
A. M. Crane, 564
For State Senate — E. B. Edmondson, 860
J. S. Greever, 1,163
Charles McDougall, 517
For House of Delegates — George Graham, 1,675
John F. Terry, 1,702
Harry Remine, 49.7
M. L. Ingram, 629
Jeriel D. Linder, 98
White voters, 2,212
Colored voters, 389
2,601
The Constitution was ratified by the people, and Gilbert C.
Walker, John F. Lewis, J. C. Taylor, J. K. Gibson, Joseph Segar,
James S. Greever, George Graham and John F. Terry were elected
to the respective offices for which they were candidates.
James K. Gibson was permitted to take his seat in the Congress
of the United States on the 24th of January, 1870.
Early in the year 1868, the Conservative party in Virginia nomi-
nated a ticket for Governor, Lieutenant-Governor and Attorney-
General, which ticket was as follows :
For Governor, Eobert E. Withers, of Lynchburg.
For Lieutenant-Governor, James A. Walker, of Pulaski.
For Attorney-General, John L. Marye, of Fredericksburg.
The object of the Conservative party was not only to elect their
ticket, but to defeat the Constitution proposed by the convention that
adjourned on the 15th of April, 1868. Numerous canvassers were
appointed throughout the State and every preparation was made to
defeat the Constitution proposed, but in March of the year 1869
the Eadical convention assembled in Petersburg and two tickets
were nominated, headed by H. H. Wells and Gilbert C. Walker,
respectively, the latter being termed the nominee of the Liberal Ee-
publican party.
554 Sonlliwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6.
The State Executive Committee of the Conservative party, believ-
ing this to be the opportunity to aeconiplish their object, withdrew
their ticket and decided to support tlie ticket headed by Gilbert C.
Walker, with the residt that Walker was elected by an overwhelm-
ing majority.
On the first day of January, 1808, the term of office of Gov-
ernor Pierpont having expired. General Schofield appointed H. H.
Wells Governor of the State, and on the 27th of March, 1SG9, an
order was issued by the military authorities removing Wells and
vesting all executive power of the State in General Stoneman.
The Congress of the United States, on the 33d day of January,
1869, adopted a resolution directing the removal of all persons
holding civil offices under the prO'visional governments of Virginia
and Texas, who could not take the oath prescribed by an act of
CongTess passed on the 22d of July, ISfifi, and conferring upon the
military authorities the power to fill all vacancies from persons who
could swear that they had not engaged in tlie rebellion against the
United States. In the month of February, 1869, Judge John A.
Cam])!)!'!], of the Circuit Court, was removed and John W. John-
son, whose disabilities had been removed, was appointed Judge of
this Circuit, and the following persons were appointed to fill vacan-
cies occasioned l)y the removal of the officers of the county.
Clerk of the Circuit Court, John O'Neal.
Clerk of the County Conrt, Charles McDougall.
County Surveyor, Leonidas Baugh.
Sheriff, W. A. Dunn.
Commonwealth-Attorney, Henry C. Auvil.
At the same time members of the County C'ourt, constables and
overseers of the poor were appointed by General Stoneman.
The Constitution, as originally proposed by the convention of
1868, contained many objectionable clauses, and, had the same
been adopted as pi'o posed, it would have been very disastrous and
humiliating to Virginia, Init through the intercession of a com-
mittee of nine prominent citizens of this State, among the num-
ber being Governor Wyndham Robertson, of Abingdon, General
Grant, soon after his inauguration on the 4th of March, 1869, by
the direction of the Congress of the United States, issued a procla-
mation appointing July 6, 1869, as the day for the people of the
Washington County,, 1777-1870. 555
State to vote iipoii the question of the ratification or rejection of
the proposed Constitution.
By the terms of this Act of Congress General Grant was author-
ized to submit to the voters of the State, separately, such clauses of
the proposed Constitution as he might think proper, and, pursuant
to this avithorit\^, clause four and section seven of the proposed
Constitution were submitted to the people to be voted upon separ-
ately and, as a result, the only objectionable clauses contained in
this Constitution were eliminated.
The General Assembly elected on the 6th of July, 1869, assembled
in Eichmond on October 5th, of the same year, and, after organiz-
ing, ratified the fourteenth and fifteenth amendments to the Con-
stitution of the United States, elected two United States senators
and adjourned to meet again on the 8th of February, 1870.
On the 28th of January, 1870, the Congress of the United States
passed a bill admitting the representatives from the State of Vir-
ginia to their seats in the Congress of the United States.
When the General Assembly re-assembled on the 8th of February,
1870, they proceeded to reorganize the government of the State
under the Constitution.
John A. Kelly, of Smyth county, was elected judge of the Circuit
Court and E. M. Page, judge of the Coiinty Court of this county.
County officers were elected on the 8th of November, 1870, as fol-
lows:
Clerk of the Circuit Court, L. T. Cosby.
Clerk of the County C-ourt, W. G. G. Lowry.
Commonwealth-Attorne}^, James \j. White.
Sheriff, James L. F. Campbell.
Treasurer, George E. Barr,
The last term of the old County Court was held on the 9th day
of April, 1870, with the following members present: Henry Daven-
port, John D. Eose and Jacob B. Kent.
This court, during its existence, was one of the most valued insti-
tutions in the State, being well suited to the genius of our people
and affording a reliable and speedy remedy for wrongs.
For a number of years immediately subsequent to the close of
the war. an organization existed in this county and in many por-
tions of the South, known as the Ku-Klux-Klan, having for its
object the restriction of that large body of freedmen found in every
556 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
section of the South, and, in many instances, very difficult to con-
trol, the object being to restrain the vicious without the commission
of any wrong against the well-meaning freedman. The terror
created in the minds of the ordinary freedraen by the mention of the
word Ku-Klux-Klan would be hard to describe.
The following notice was published in the Abingdon, paper on the
3d of April, 1868 :
"NOTICE. -
TO THE UNTEERIFIED KU-KLUX-KLAN".
No. 969.
X O
Meet at the Smoky Don of Destruction to hear what the royal
avenging Giant has to say for the good of this Klan ; be prompt to
be there at 3 o'clock on the 1st April (night) *
By order of the 4th Demon now in the land."
In the month of January, 1869, a depot was erected by the Vir-
ginia and Tennessee Railroad Company near Goforth's Mill, six
miles east of Bristol, and since that time a considerable town has
grown up at this point and is now known as Wallace's Switch.
A Law Library Association was organized in Abingdon in Octo-
ber, 1869, by James W. Humes and other prominent citizens of the
town, but for some reason' this association was short lived.
On the 24th of November, 1870, the sense of the people of this
county was taken upon a proposition for a county subscription of
$200,000 to the Norfolk and Great Western railroad, and the propo-
sition was negatived by a vote of nine hundred and ninety-five
against, to two hundred and thirty-eight for.
The county of Washington, previous to the year 1872 divided
into nine districts, was changed in that year, pursuant to an
Act of thfe General Assembly, and was divided into six districts by
M. H. Buchanan, I. A. McQuown, D. A. P. Campbell, John Rob-
erts, John M. Hamilton and W. P. Wallace, commissioners
appointed by the County Court of this county for that purpose.
The names of the districts as thus established were Glade Spring,
*This notice wats published along with a representation of a skull and
cross bones.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 66^
Saltville, North Fork, Abingdon, Groodson and Kinderhook Dis-
tricts. In 1876, by order of the County Court of this county, Hol-
ston District was established and became the Seventh District of
the county.
At this point I will close the history of tlie county, as it has often-
times been truly said : "Nations only begin to look after the his-
tory of their founders and search into their oxigin when they have
outlived the memory thereof."
EDUCATION.
By far the most creditable chapter in the history of Abingdon and
the people of Washington county, has been the effort of the people
to afford excellent facilities for the education of the youthful
inhabitants of Abingdon and the surrounding country.
William Webb was the first schoolmaster that taught an English
school in the vicinity of Abingdon. He was an Englishman and
came to America in the employment of Lord Fairfax, in whose
land office in the Northern Neck of Virginia he wrote for many
years at the same time that George Washington, with whom Mr.
Webb was well acquainted, was surveying for Lord Fairfax. He
came to Abingdon in 1782 or 1783 with a wife and nine chil-
dren and was employed by John Campbell, clerk of the county, in
recording deeds and doing other work in the clerk's oflfice. Soon
after his arrival Mr. Canipl)ell had a school made up for him, and a
schoolhouse was built just across the creek from Mr. Findlay's old
tan-yard, at the head of Black's mill pond, and near where a good
spring came out from between rocks. The ground was the floor and
the seats for the scholars were made of hewn slabs placed on forks
driven into the ground around the walls, and their writing table was
of the same material placed on forks in the middle of the room. Such
was the furniture of the first school-house in Abingdon. Mr. Webb
was a very small man, with a round face and sparkling black eyes.
He was talkative, lively and intelligent, and though feeble, was very
independent in his opinions, and when aroused was as bold as a
lion. He had a ready use of his pen and wrote a most beautiful
hand, as is evident from an inspection of his work now to be found
in the clerk's office of Washington county. ]\Ir. Webb removed to
Russell county in 1786, and settled near the present location of
Tazewell Courthouse, Virginia, and taught school until his death in
the year 1818.
558 Southwest Virginia, 17Jt6-17S6.
The next teacher of any distinction that came to the vicinity of
Abingdon was Tui'uer Lane, an Irisliman, who had previously
thereto taiiglit school at the Eoyal Oak, where Marion, in Smyth
county now stands. He began to teach school in Abingdon in the
year 1786, in a house on the land of John Bradley. In 1788 or
1789 a school-house was built for him near the meeting-house
spring, at a location within the present enclosure of the Sinking
Spring Cemetery. At this location he taught for several years,
and subsequently removed to Tennessee and settled near Sparta.
He was a man of good size and appearance, very orderly in his
requirements in school, but not tyrannical.*
At this location a school was conducted until the organization of
the Abingdon Male Academy in the year 1802.
ABINGDON MALE ACADEMY.
At the fall session of the General Assembly of Virginia in the
year 1802, Eobert Craig, Sr., a member of the Legislature from
Washington county, at the request of a number of prominent citi-
zens of Abingdon, introduced a bill in the Legislature o>i Virginia
having for its object the incorporation of the Abingdon Academy.
This bill became a law on the IHth of January, 1803, and provided
that :
John Campbell, Jiobert Craig, Sr.,
Eichard White, Eobert Campbell,
James Bradley, Gerrard T. Conn,
William King, Erancis Preston,
James White, Claiborne Watkins,
Andrew Eussell, William Tate,
Henry Dixon, Frederick Hamilton and
David Campbell,
should constitute a body politic and incorporate by the name of
the Trustees of Abingdon Academy, and by that name should have
j3erpetual succession, a common seal, and sue and be sued. They
Avere given the power to make rules and regulations, to appoint
oflBcers and remove the same, in the establishment and conduct of
the proposed Academy, and vacancies occurring on the Board of
Trustees were to be filled by the surviving trustees."
By this same act the trustees of the town of Abingdon and their
successors, or the majority of them, were authorized to raise, not
*Gov. David Campbell M?S
Washington County, 1777-1870. 559
exceeding $2,000, by lottery or lotteries, to be applied by them in
purchasing a library, philosophical and mathematical apparatus, and
anything else necessary for the use of the said Academy.
The school as thus chartered was opened in the Masonic Hall,*
in the town of Abingdon, in the fall of the year 1803, and the Acad-
emy was conducted in the same hall until about the 3Tar 1820.
livery member of the Board of Trustees appointed by this act was
personally interested in the success of the Academy, each contribut-
ing everytliing possible to the institution and the success of the same.
Four members of the Board of Trustees of the town of Abing-
don met at the courthouse in the town of Abingdon on the 18th
of June, 1803, and, pursuant to the provisions of the Act of the
Assembly of date Janiuiry 13, 1803, had the following proceedings:
"At a meeting of the trustees of the town of Abingdon, at the
courthouse of Washington county, ou .Saturday, tlie 18th day of
June, 1803.
Present, Tiobert Campbell, Andrew Kussell, Frederick Hamilton
and James White.
By an act of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Vir-
ginia, passed the 13th day of Januar}^, 1803, it is enacted that it
shall and may be lawful for the trustees of the said town, and their
successors or a majority of them, to raise by lottery or lotteries, a
sum, not exceeding two thousand dollars, to be applied by them in
purchasing a library, philosophical and mathematical apparatus,
and anything else necessary for the iise of the said Academy. In
pursuance whereof we have adopted the following scheme of a lot-
tery to be denominated 'The Abingdon Academy Lottery,' to raise
the sum of two thousand dollars for the purposes aforesaid, by
account of twenty per cent, on prizes alone.
1 Prize of $1,000, $ 1,000
2 Prizes of $500, 1,000
15 Prizes of $100, 1,500
40 Prizes of $50, 2,000
50 Prizes of $20, 1,000
700 Prizes of $5, 3,500
I
808 Prizes, $10,000
1192 Blanks,
2,000 Tickets@$5, $10,000
*Thi3 hall atood on the lot now occupied by the new county jail on Water street.
560 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
The drawing will commence in the Abingdon Academy as soon
as the tickets are sold, and continued from day to day until finally
completed; immediately after which the prizes will be paid to the
fortunate adventurers. Such as shall not be demanded within six
montlis after the close of the drawing will be consid'ered as relin-
quished. We have adopted tlie following form of the tickets :
Abingdon Academy !
This ticket, 'No. entitles the drawer to the first
prize annexed to its number subject to a discount of twenty
per cent, thereon.
EGBERT CAMPBELL,
ANDREW RUSSELL,
FREDERICK HAMILTON,
JAMES WHITE,
Trustees.
There can be no question that the "drawing under this lot-
tery took place, but with what success it is impossible to ascertain.
The first principal of the Abingdon Academy is unknown, and
the success attending the Academy previous to 1820 is equally
unknown; but it is probable that the institution received consid-
erable patronage and to some extent at least met the object of its
projectors.
William King, a young man who had been identified with the
town of Abingdon since an early day in its history, became very
much interested in the Abingdon Academy, and being a man of con-
siderable means, at the time of the execution of his will he made the
following provision for the Academy — to-wit: I also leave and
bequeath to the Abingdon Academy the sum of ($10,000) ten thou-
sand dollars payable to the trustees in the year 1816, or lands to
that amount, to be vested in said Academy with the interest or rents
thereon forever.'^
His will was probated on the 20th of December, 1808.
William King was an Irishman and a self-made man in every
particular, but evidently had received a good English education
himself. By this act he rendered a great service to many gen-
erations of people, and his name will be intimately associated with
the history of his adopted home as long as education is appreciated
by our people.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 56i
In the fall of the year 1812, tlie following advertisement appeared
in the "Political Prospect/' a newspaper published in Abingdon :
ABIi^TGDON^ ACADEMY.
"The trustees of this institution have the happiness to announce
to the friends of Erudition, that the muses are about to pour out
th'eir treasures from the Pierian Spring in this Seminary. To the
American Youth who thirst for literary acquirements, they offer the
draughts of :
LANGUAGE AND SCIENCE.
Under
The REV. THOMAS ERSKINE BIRCH, WHOSE TALENTS
as a preceptor have been so universally authenticated that any
encomium is unnecessary.
PRICES FOR TUITION.
For a novitiate, $10 00
Reading and writing, 12 00
English Gram., Arithmetic, &c., 15 00
Language & Mathematical Science, Elocution, Philosophy,
Belles-Lettres and Astronomy, Book-keeping, geography
and Navigation, &c., 30 00
Nothing more is known of the Academy at this time.
The trustees of the Abingdon Academy in the year 1819 insti-
tuted a suit in the court of this county having for its object the
enforcement of the provision made by William King in his will for
Abingdvn Academy.
Matthew Willoughb}^ Edward Latham and James Vance were
appointed conunissioners by the coiirt to ascertain the lands own.ed
by William King in Abingdon and -vicinity, and to ascertain the
value of eaid lands and report to the court.
These commissioners reported to the court at the October term
tlioreof, and by a decree of said court entered on the 23d of Decem-
ber, 1819, the following lands were directed to be conveyed by the
adult heirs of William King, deceased, and by Jacob Lynch, com-
missioner of the court, to the trustees of the Abingdon Academy,
99 acres and 31 poles; 39 acres and 80 poles; 10 1-3 acres; 30 3-4
acres; 33 acres and 59 poles; 33 acres; 40% acres; 15 acres and
130 poles; 17 acres and 88 poles; 8^^ acres; 100 acres; 10 quarter-
562 Southwest Virginia, 17J,G-178G.
acre lots in the Robert Craig addition to the town of Abingdon, and
being lots Nos. 31, 35, 33, 37, 38, 39, 40, and 43; 10 quarter-acre
lots in the David Craig addition to said town, and being lots Nos.
15, 16, 17, 18, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, and 30."
Deeds were executed pursuant to this order of the coairt, and tlie
trustees of the Academy set about in earnest to make the institu-
tion of great service to the community.
Soon after the determination of this suit, the trustees of Abingdon
Academy emjDloyed Natlianiel Holley as principal of the Academy,
and rented a room for tlie school to be taught in until the Academy
building could be erected.
In the year 1824, the Board of Trustees appointed Francis Smith,
James Cummings and Earl B. Clapp, curators for the Academy
land, and in the same year appointed David Campbell, James White
and Francis Smith, a conmiittee to select a location for the Academy
and have the site for the Academy cleared out, and in the following
year, Francis Smith, John M. Preston and David Campbell, were
appointed a committee tO' let the contract for the erection of a brick
Academy to cost $2,000, and at the same time the Board of Directors
directed that the cost of the erection of this Academy be paid by
money raised by private subscription.
In the year 1826, when the brick Academy was nearing com-
pletion, the Board of Trustees of tJi© Academy sold and conveyed
to General Francis Preston, all their interest in the old Academy
building on Water street, and in the year 1827, occupied tlie new
Academy building, and elected W^illiam Ewing principal.
The brick Academy erected in this year was situated upon the
location of the present Academy building, and was one of the best
school buildings in Western Virginia at the time.
William Ewing served as -principal of the Academy until 1833,
and during his occupancy the attendance was considerable and the
Academy prosperous.
From the year 1833 to 1837, Professor Peter McViccar, formerly
a professor in Hampden-Sidney College, was principal of the Acad-
emy, and received for his compensation $1,300 yearly. The tui-
tion fee was $10 per session and the number of students exceeded
forty.
In the yciir 1833, tlie trustees of Abingdon Academy decided that
it would be advisable to unite the male and female schools af the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 563
town, and appointed a committee to ascertain the practicability of
selling the Academy lands and uniting the two schools, bnt this
undertaking of the trustees evidently failed, as there is no evidence
that the two schools were ever united.
In the year 1833 there were four schools for boys in the town
of Abingdon, conducted by the Eev. David Spyker, Eev. F. L. B.
Shaver, Samuel Baillie and a Mr. Hathaway, and one school for
girls.
In the year 1774, Dr. Thomas Walker conveyed to the minister
and congregation of Sinking Spring and their successors fifty-five
acres of land, now in West Abingdon and including Sinking Spring-
Cemetery, and a portion of Fruit Hill and Taylor's Hill.
In the year 1800 the validity of this deed was questioned by some,
and on the 11th of January, 1800, Colonel Francis Walker, as
executor of Dr. Thomas Walker, conveyed this same land to the
Eev. Charles Cummings and others and their successors.
In the year 1840, the validity of this last conveyancee was ques-
tioned, and on the 23d of May in that year, William C. Eives and
his wife, Judith P. Eives, Mann Page, and Jane F. Page, the heirs-
at-law of Dr. Thomas Walker, conveyed these lands to the trustees
of Abingdon Academy and their successors.
Subsequently it was decided that the first deed executed by Dr.
Walker was valid and, consequently, all subsequent deeds void.
The next information that we have of the Academy is in the year
1849, at which time W. A. Woodson and B. F. Ficklin were prin-
cipals.
During the administration of Woodson and Ficklin the Academy
was a military institution, and for a number of years thereafter.
The students were uniformed and daily drilled. The uniform worn
by the students was as follows : A coatee of gray cloth with white
metal buttons, with pantaloons of the same material for winter,
and white linen or cotton for summer and a blue cloth cap. The
attendance during this period in the history of the school was
large, and the school was exceedingly prosperous.
W. A. Woodson and J. M. Brockenbrough were the principals
of the Academy in the year 1851, but they disagreed, and J. M.
Brockenbrough during the following year conducted a school for
boys in the basement of the Temperance Hall. To this school he
5G4 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1736.
gave the name of Washington Institute, liut the school ceased to
exist after the first year.
The principals of the Ahingdon Academy from 1822 until the
jjresent time have been as follows:
1822-1827, Nathaniel Holley.
1827-1833, William Ewing.
1833-1837, Peter McViccar.
1837-1838, Kev. Ephraim D. Saunders, Cumberland county.
1838-1840, George Clive, Albemarle county.
1840-1843, Eev. Samuel Matthews.
1843-1849, John G. Winniford.
1849-1850, B. F. Ficldin and W. A. Woodson.
1850-1851, W. A. Woodson and J. M. Brockenbrough.
1851-1852, W. A. Woodson and W. Y. C. Humes.
1852-1853, J. E. Blankenship.
1853-1854, Eev. Thomas Bro^vn.
1854-1855, Eev. Henry T. Lee.
1 855-1856, Stephen J. Pendleton, Williamsburg.
1856-1859, Eev. Thomas Brown.
185l'-1860, Charles T. Brown.
1860-1861, E. H. Hall.
1861-1865, William Farmer.
18t3o-1871, Eobert P. Carson.
1871-1872, John H. McEae.
And since 1872, Eobert P. Carson, J. B. Baker, A. P. Wilmer,
J. W. Cole and B. E. Smith in the order named.
It is worthy of mention at this point that John G. Winniford, who
for a number of years successfully conducted the Abingdon Acad-
emy, was the son of the principal contractor in the building of
EmoTy and Henry College, and probably the first graduate of that
ir^stitntion.
Mr. Hall, the principal of this Academy in the year 1861, resigned
his position as principal of the Academy and enlisted in the service
of the Confederate States.
Eobert J. Preston, Samuel B. Paston and James G. McCliaiu, in
the order named, were assistant professors at the Academy during
the administration of Eobert P. Carson.
In the spring of the year 1861, the volunteers from Scott county
were permitted to occupy the Abingdon Academy temporarily, but
Washington County, 1777-1870. 565
this permission was abused, and the trustees of the Academy peti-
tioned the Secretary of War of the Confederate States to prohibit
the use of the Academy by the soldiers, and in June, 186S, tliis
petition was granted and the soldiers forbidden to occupy the
Academy.
By the year 1872 the Academy buildings by neglect and bad usage
had cracked and were in a very dilapidated condition, and the Board
of Trustees, because of the necessity above stated, began the erection
in that year of the present Academy building and the brick residence
near thereto.
The coTner-stone of the Academy was relaid jointly by Waterman
Lodge, No. 319, and Abingdon Lodge, JSTo. 48, Ancient Free and
Accepted Masons, on the 15th day of July, A. L., 5872, A. D., 1872,
conducted by P. G. M. Thomas F. Owens.
The program was as follows :
Eobert E. Withers, Grand Master of Virginia.
Waterman Lodge, JSTo. 219.
John C. Campbell, Master.
John G. Clark, S. W.
William White, J. W.
George E. Barr, Secretary.
Charles B. Coale, Treasurer.
Abingdon Lodge, No. 48.
John A. Barrow, Master.
P. C. Landrum, S. W.
John D. Cosby, J. W.
G. V. Litchfield, Secretary.
W. F. Barr, Treasurer.
Committee of Arrangements:
E. M. Page,
George E. Barr, J> Lodge No. 219.
Thomas K. Trigg,
G. V. Litchfield, ^
John D. Cosby, I Lodge, No. 48.
John A. Barrow, )
5r,r, SoullnrrsI I'm/n/zV/, 17J,6-1786.
Trustees of Abingdoii Academy :
E. M. Campbell, President.
John G. Kreger, Secretary and Treasurer.
James K. Gibson, C. S. Bekem,
John A. Campliell, A. C. Cummings,
A. E. Preston, George V. Litchfield, Sr.,
Charles J. Cummings, N". K. White,
T. G. McConnell, D. G. Thomas,
James Fields, S. N". Honaker,
James L. White.
Contractors :
James Fields, Masonry.
Frank Smith, carpenter.
The buildings thus begun were completed in a short time, and at
this day are in use by the authorities of the Academy.
The trustees of the Academy in the meantime had sold and con-
veyed the property derived under the will of William King, and, pre-
vious to 18G1, had used the interest arising from this endowment
fund in discharging the current expenses of the school, but by the
depreciation of the securities held by the Board of Trustees for this
fund, the entire fund was exhausted by the erection of the buildings
before mentioned and since that time the school has been without
an endowment fund.
Since the close of the war the following gentlemen have acted as
principals of the Academy in the order named : Colonel E. P. Car-
son, J. B. Baker, A. P. Wilmer, J. W. Cole, and B. E. Smith.
This Academy is situated within view of the Norfolk and Western
Eailway and about one-quarter of a mile from the depot thereof.
The grounds consist of about eighteen acres of land, and the
Academy buildings are situated on a high hill in the midst of a
splendid grove of poplar, oak and chestnut trees overlooking tlie
town of Abingdon, and from this hill a splendid view may be had
of all the surrounding country.
Many of the distinguished men produced by this county and this
section of Virginia have been students of this Acadeni)', and under
its present very efficient management many of the sons of this sec-
tion of Virginia are being prepared for a life of nsefulness and
honor.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 567
?\Vhat this Academy most needs is an endowment fnnd that will
enable the trustees to extend the sphere of usefulness of the institu-
tion, and if some of our well-to-do^ citizens could be impressed with
the fact that wealth transmitted to descendants has an enervating
effect and oftentimes destroys the usefulness of excellent men, maybe
they would be impelled to confer a small portion at least of their
wealth upon this institution, and thereby forever merit the love
and respect of their fellow-citizens and their posterity. The pro-
vision contained in the will of William King, as above set out, has
done more to perpetuate his memory and to instill into the minds of
his posterity and fellow-citizens a sublime respect for his character
as a man than all the great wealth that passed at liis death to his
relatives.
Female Education.
As early as March, 1840, the General Assembly of Virginia in-
corporated the Abingdon Female Academy with a capital of $50,-
000, under the management of the following trustees :
David Campbell, John M. Preston,
Alexander Findlay, John W. C. Watson,
John N. Humes, Fairman H. Preston,
Jacob Lynch, Daniel Trigg,
Samuel H. Wills, William Y. C. White,
Jeremiah Bronough, John C. Greenway,
John Dunn.
This school was for many years conducted in a room in the Ma-
sonic Hall, which was located on A^alley street, on now the vacant
lot between the Presbyterian manse and the residence© of Mrs. S.
M. Withers. This school for many years was under the supervision
of Miss Melville and Miss Agnes Mitchell (the latter won distinc-
tion by her production entitled the "Smuggler's Son"), and after-
wards by Miss Bettie Litchfield, and at one time by the Eev. Thomas
Brown.
In the year 1851, Miss Bettie Litchfield conducted the school at
the Masonic Hall, and ]\Iisses Sallie C. and Elizabeth Balfour con-
ducted a school for young ladies in the Methodist Protestant church.
In February of the year 1851, a committee appointed by the
Holston Conference met in Abingdon and discussed the propriety
of establishing a female college within the bounds of the confer-
568
Southwest _ Virginia, 17J^6-1 786.
ence; and while this committee failed to establish a school in Abing-
don, the subject was extensively discussed and was finally brought
to the attention of McCabe Lodge, No. 56, I. 0. 0. F., of Abingdon,
and, as a result, the lodge, in the year 1853, projected a plan for the
erection of a first-class female college in Abingdon, to which was
given the name of
MAETHA WASHINGTON COLLEGE.
This name was suggested by Colonel John Campbell, of Hall's
Bottom, who, in speaking of this enterprise, said: "If the name of
your county was the first honor of the kind paid to General Wash-
Martha Washington College, Abingdon, Va.
ington, the name you are about to give to your female college will
be the first of the kind paid to his wife, who shared with him his
anxieties and hopes in our struggle for liberty and whose domestic
virtues made her a perfect model of female excellence. By thus con-
ferring the name you will do honor to the bosom friend of Washing-
ton, who consoled him during his wonderful career. You will also
do honor to the first settlers of Washington county, who proved
Washington County, 1777-1870. 569
themselves in the darkest hours of the revolution to be worthy the
name that had been selected for their county."
The Odd-Fellows Lodge that undertook this worthy enterprise
was organized on the 27th of June, 1847, the following persons
being charter members: James D. McCabe, John C. Campbell, F. L,
B. Shaver, Matthew Davis and Charles B. Coale.
The growth of the lodge was rapid, and its usefulness was un-
bounded, and by the year 1853 most of the leading citizens of Abing-
don were active members.
When the lodge had decided to undertake this enterprise co'nmiit-
tees were appointed to select the location for the college and ascer-
tain the cost thereof, to solicit subscriptions from the citizens of the
town and county and from other lodges, and shortly thereafter the
lodge purchased from William Y. C. White about ten acres of land
on the hill north of the county courthouse for the sum of twelve
liundred dollars, the purchase money being paid in cash. W. W.
Blackford, a member of the lodge, was employed to furnish the plan
for said college, which plan was reported and adopted, and contracts
were let for the building of a large three-story building intended
ds the main building of the college.
In the meantime the General Assembly of Virginia, on the 3d
day of March, 1854, incorporated the proposed college under the
name and style of the Trustees of the Martha Washington College,
the following gentlemen being named as trustees : B. E. Johnston,
James H. Dunn, James Fields, David C. Dunn, John L. Bradle}^,
Samuel Garner, George E. Barr, Samuel Logan, William K. Heis-
kell, Thomas L. Preston, Peter E. B. C. Henritze, Henry W. Baker
and John C. Cummings, to^ which board were subsequently added
Charles B. Coale and John G. Kreger.
This board organized by the election of Thomas L. Preston as
president of the board.
The ladies of the town were interested, and conducted several
fairs for the benefit of the college. A Gift Enterprise was conducted
at Abingdon and 50,000 tickets were sold at $1.00 each. Fifty thou-
sand gifts were bestowed upon the holders of the tickets sold, among
the gifts being a farm of 150 acres of land, house and lot in the town
of Abingdon, piano, carriage, buggy, certificates of scholarsliip in
the proposed college, and several thousand steel engravings of the
proposed college buildings.
570 South vest Virginia, 1740-1786.
By the year 1858 the main building of the college was about com-
pleted and the grounds somewhat improved, when, during a very
severe storm, the building was so badly injured as to make it neces-
sary to tear it down and rebuild it, and it was apparent that the
lodge would not be able to complete the undertaking as at first pro-
posed, although they had expended $30,000 thereon.
At this time the Rev. E. E. Wiley, representing the Holston Con-
ference, submitted a proposition to the lodge on behalf of the confer-
ence. The lodge accepted the proposition of the conference, and
the college, wdth its debts, real estate and subscription list, was
transferred to the Holston Conference, the transfer taking effect
on Monday, June 14, 1858.
The conference immediately began preparations for the comple-
tion of the enterprise undertaken by the lodge, and soon thereafter
purchased from Thomas L. Preston the present location of the col-
lege for the sum of $21,600.
The property thus purchased was the former residence of Gen-
eral Francis Preston, and the home at one time of William C. Pres-
ton and John S. Preston, oi South Carolina ; Mrs. Wade Hampton,
South Carolina; Mrs. Eobert J. Breckenridge, of Kentucky; Mrs.
General Carrington, of Albemarle county; Mrs. John B. Floyd,
Mrs. James McDowell, of Rockbridge, and Mrs. John M. Preston, of
Abingdon.
The General Assembly of A^'irginia incorporated Martha Wash-
ington College on the 22d of February, 1860, naming the following
trustees :
George V. Litchfield, Ephraim E. Wiley,
Milton Y. Heiskell, T. P. Hoofnagle,
B. R. Johnston, William P. Bishop,
C. B. Coale, W. K. Heiskell,
Thomas S. Stewart, Edmond Longley,
Joseph Haskew, Tbomas G. McConnell,
John A. Campbell.
This board organized by the election of John A. Campbell as
president, and the first session of the school was duly opened on
March 15, 1860, and, save for the suspension of a few months in
the year 1862, has continued in successful operation to tbe present,
the last few years being the most prosperous in its entire history.
This college can boast of more than three hundred and fifty grad-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 571
nates, representing all of the ?Southern States and many of the
Northern and Western States.
' The description of the buildings and grounds is best given by one
of the original trustees of this college :
"The buildings and grounds are of the most elaborate and mag-
nificent order, unsurpassed for beauty and convenience in the South
or out of it. The grounds comprise eight acres, and are gorgeously
ornamented with trees and shrubs and flowers. There are more
than a mile of continuous serpentine walks for the young ladies
to promenade in, all tastefully bordered with flowering shrubbery.
Fruits in great variety, including berries and grapes in great abund-
ance, grow in all parts of the ground, at all times in their season
accessible to the inmates, and the young ladies seem, in their beau-
tiful and well-ordered "home school," to be as happy as the first
inhabitants of Eden before that Snake came along. The buildings
are extensive, convenient and imposing, and capable of accommO^
dating from 125 to 150 boarders. The Faculty is equal to any
anywhere; and if we were young again, we believe we might be
bewildered at the sight of tlie bright eyes, sunny curls and fairy-
like forms that sport amid the flowers of the campus on calm sum-
mer evenings. Some of our young men are half crazy now, but
they dare not pass the enclosure, except to see a sister or a cousin, and
they all have cousins of course, and even then nearly every tree and
bush and flower seems to say — "thus far shalt thou go and no
further."*
The buildings, four in number, are constructed of brick, and are
heated by steam and are lighted by incandescent electric lights.
The principals of tliis college during its very useful career have
been: W. A. Harris, B. Arbogast, R. W. Jones, Warren Dupree,
E. E. Hoss, E. E. Wiley, D. S. Hearon, S. N. Barker and W. M.
Dyer.
STONEWALL JACKSON INSTITUTE.
In the year 1SG8, a number of the prominent citizens of Abing-
don, principally affiliating with the Presbyterian Church, feeling
it necessary that another school for the education of girls should be
established in this section of the State, undertook the founding of
such an institution in the town of Abingdon.
*Charles B. Coale.
573
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6.
The location selected was the brick -residence erected by General
John S. Preston in the year 1833, and lots ISTos. 10, 11, 12, 13, 20,
21 and 3-4 of lot No. 9, in West Abingd4)n. This property was
occupied by General Preston until his removal to South Carolina,
and then by Governor Floyd until the time of his death.
After the death of Governor Floyd, his wife, Sally B. Floyd, and
W. B. Byars, trustee, conveyed this property to A. L. Hendricks,
who, on the 16th of January, 1868, sold and transferred the same
to the trustees of Martha Washington College.
Stonewall Jackson Institute, Abingdon, Va.
When it was definitely determined to undertake the establish-
ment of this school, the trustees of the Sinking Spring Presbyterian
Church, purchased from the Trustees of Martha Washington College
the property above mentioned, and the gentlemen interested at
once met and organized a Board of Trustees composed of the fol-
lowing gentlemen: W. Y. C. White, A. C. Cummings, T. P. Clapp,
F. B. Hurt, Kobert A. Preston, T. M. Clapp, James W. Preston, Eev.
James McChain, D. G. Thomas, D. C. Dunn, S. A. Preston,
D. C. Greenway and J. G. Kreger, and elected the following officers :
President, W. Y. C. White.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 573
Vice-President, A. C. Cuinmings.
Secretary, John G. Kreger.
Treasurer, Samuel A. Preston.
The Trustees of the Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church
appointed the Eev. A. L. Hogshead as agent to solicit subscrip-
tions to the new enterprise, and the Board of Trustees gave to the
new institution the name of Jackson Female Institute, and selected
the Rev. Samuel Davies Stuart, of Staunton, Virginia, as principal ?
of the institution for the first year, and the Rev. Thomas Brown as
principal professor. The first session of this school began on the
15th of September, 18G8, with a large attendance and bright pros-
pects. The name given to the institution was bestowed and intended
as a tribute, so far as such an act can constitute a tribute, to a
majestic character, a great name that will ever shine with un-
dinimed glory upon the page of history.
When General Lee received information of the , organization of
this institution he addressed tlie following letter to the principal
of the Institute, expressing his feelings in regard thereto:
Eev. S. D. Stuart:
In reply to yours of the IGth instant in reference to the Stone-
wall Jackson Institute, I assure you that any scheme designed to
perpetuate the recollections of the virtue and patriotism of General
Jackson meets with my approval. As he was a friend of learning,
I know of no more effective and appropriate method of accomplish-
ing the praiseworthy object in question than the establishment of
an institution in which tlie young women of our country may be
trained for the important and responsible duiies of life. I hope
the institution established by the people of Southwest Virginia, and
dedicated to the memory of General T. J. Jackson, may meet with
entire success and prove a blessing to the State.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
R. B. LEE.
AVhat more fitting monument could be erected to the memory of
General Jackson, who was loved chiefly for his patriotism, gen-
tleness, truth, his love for his family and his God, than an institu-
tion of learning of this character.
Could General Jackson know the manner in which the young
lady pupils of this institution are taught and witness them in their
uniforms of Confederate gray, he would feel that this is the grand-
574 Southwest Virginia, 17JtG-1786.
est moninneiit that lias yet been erected to his name by a loving
people.
By the year 1870, it was found necessary to have this institution
incorporated, and the General Assembly of Virginia, on the 27 th of
June, 1870, incorporated the same with the following Trustees:
W. Y. C. White, T. P. Clapp, James W. Preston, S. A. Pres-
ton, David C. Dunn, Floyd B. Hurt, D. G. Thomas, John G.
Kreger, David C. Greenway, H. S. Preston, E. H. Barnett, George
E. Barr, James W. Humes, George W. Palmer, A. C. Cummings,
Isaac B. Dunn and Joseph E. Anderson.
I. B. Dunn and Joseph E. Anderson declined to serve as trustees
and E. M. Page and John A. Buchanan were elected tO' fill the
vacancies.
Considerable difficulty was experienced by the trustees of this
institution in relieving it from its indebtedness, but after a few
years the financial condition of the institution was such as to
justify the erection of a commodious addition, three stories in height,
at the east end of the original building, and about ten years ago a
handsome building was erected at the west end of the original build-
ing, and the grounds were terraced and placed in excellent condi-
tion.
The trustees of this institution until recent years were selected,
one-half by the trustees of the Institute and the other half by the
trustees of Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church, but, in the year
1896, the trustees of the Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church
transferred their interest in the institution to Abingdon Presbytery,
and the charter of Jackson Female Institute was amended by the
General Assembly changing the name to Stonewall Jackson Insti-
tute and provides for the appointment of new trustees by the Abing-
don Presbytery and the trustees of the Institute.
It may be said that this institution bids fair to experience in the
near future such an era ot prosperity and usefulness as is seldom
witnessed, and that not without cause.
Could the fathers and mothers of our country know and expe-
rience the gentle Christian-like influences that are constantly
exerted by the principal of this institution in her dealings with her
pupils, they could not hesitate to intrust their daughters to her care.
The Institute is situated upon a beautiful eminence on west Main
Washin!jion Cotiniy, 1777-1870. 575
street, the grounds are studded with handsome shade trees, all of
them of full growth, many of them of stately stature and patri-
archal age ; the surface is undulating in graceful terraces and inter-
sected by winding paths.- The front and sides of the campus are
enclosed with a handsome stone wall, surmounted throughout its
entire leng-th by an artistic iron fence. The buildings occupy the
crest of a hill of considerable elevation above the street upon which
they front and from which they are quite far removed, while the
town of Abingdon is 2,05,7 feet above the level of the sea. In salu-
brity of climate, which is an important consideration in selecting a
school. Southwest Virginia is not excelled by any other section of
the country.
The principals of the institute since its founding have been:
Eev. Samuel D. Stuart, Thomas D. Davidson, A. Q. HoUiday, Eev.
John 0. Sullivan, J. D. Anderson and Miss Kate M. Hunt.
Under the present administration the institute has received a
larger patronage than in any preceding period of its history.
EMORY AND HENEY COLLEGE.
From an early day in our histoi-y the need of an institution of
learning that would afford educational advantages of a high order
was Jvcenly felt, and for many years the practicability of establish-
ing such an institution was discussed by the leading citizens of this
section of our country, l)ut no practical results were obtained until
about the year 1833. Colonel William Byars, Tobias Smith, Alex-
ander Findlay and the Eev. Creed Fulton, about this time, under-
took the establishment of such an institution in this county, and
had made some progress, when the Holston Conference of the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church, at its fall session of 1835, held in Knox-
ville, Tennessee, resolved to establish in Southwestern Virginia a
manual labor college, and soon thereafter, on the 9th of April, 1836,
Colonel William Byars and Alexander Findlay purchased from
George M. Crawford and the other devisees of the Eev. Edward
Crawford, 554 1-3 acres of land for the sum of $4,158.75.
The lands thus purchased were situated on the waters of Cedar
creek, described in the deed as the waters of the Little Holston creek,
and were the same lands that were surveyed by John Buchanan,
deputy surveyor of Augusta county, for Colonel James Wood, on
the 26th of March, 1874 and th? 24th of March, 1749. These
576
Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
lands were devised by Colonel Wood to his wife, Mary Wood, and
by her conveyed to James Dysart and Matthew Eyburn, executors
O'f John Beattie, deceased, and by D3'sart and Eyburn conveyed to
the Eev. Edward Crawford, and by the Eev. Edward Crawford
devised to his children by his wife, Jane.*
The Holston Conference, at the same time that it decided to
establish the manual labor school in Southwest Virginia, commis-
0^M
Emory and Heniy College, Emory, Va.
sioned the Eev. Creed Fulton as an agent to solicit funds for the
undertaking, Avhich duty he immediately proceeded to discharge.
Upon his return from Knoxville, a meeting of the citizens of the
upper end of this county was held at the Old Glade Spring Church,
having for its object the obtaining of subscriptions for the enter-
prise. This meeting was largely attended and $5,000 was sub-
scribed to the enterprise at that time and pi ace, f and soon there-
after another meeting was held in Abingdon at which a subscription
equally as large was obtained. In the meantime Colonel William
Byars, Alexander Findlay and Tobias Smith were furnishing the
*The will of Eev. Edward Crawford was probated on January 21st, 1823.
tTobias Smith was the first subscriber, his snbgcription being $500.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 577
money and were giving tlieir time to the erection of buildings upon
the location selected for the school, being the lands purchased by
Byars and Findlay from George M. Crawford and others.
The corner-stone of the main college building was laid with
Masonic ceremonies on the 30th day of September, 1836, in the
presence of a large concourse of people. The contract for the build-
ings had been previously let to Lyle & Sheppard and the carpen-
ters' work to George Winniford, and by the spring of 1838 the
buildings were sufficiently advanced to justify the opening of the
school, and the first session began on the 13th day of April, 1838.
The name given to this college was Emory and Henry College, in
honor of Bishop Emory and Patrick Henry, and the Kev. Charles
Collins was elected the first president of the college.
Colonel William Byars was elected president and Alexander Find-
lay secretary, of the first Board of Trustees of Emory and Henxy
College. The first Board of Trustees of Emory and Henry College
was composed of the following gentlemen:
Colonel William Byars, John W. Price,
Alexander Findlay, John W. C. AVatson,
Tobias Smith, Rev. Creed Fulton,
Daniel Trigg, M. D., Rev. ISTathaniel Sherman,
Colonel Thomas L. Preston, John N. Humes,
Rev. Thomas Catlett, Nickerson Snead, M. D.,
Rev. Arnold Patton.
This school, in its inception, was called a manual labor college,
and was intended as an institution in which the pupils were to be
taught to labor with their hands as well as to think. They were to
be permitted to work upon the farm and to receive credit upon
their tuition and board for labor thus performed, and while this
feature of the institution was maintained for many years, it was
finally found to be impracticable and was abandoned. One hun-
dred students were enrolled during the first year, and, as far as
patronage was concerned, the school was prosperous.
This institution was incorporated by an act of the Assembly
approved March 5, 1839, and on the 24th of December, 1840, Wil-
liam Byars, Alexander Findlay and Catherine Findlay, his wife,
conveyed to the trustees of Emory and Henry College the lands
they had purchased from the devisees of the Rev. Edward Crawford
in 1836, and in this deed William Byars retained a lien on the
578 Soidliivest Yirgima, llJtG-1186.
lands thus conveyed to secure to himself the sum of $7,400, and to
Alexander Findlay and John D. Mitchell $2,000, money advanced
by them in the establishment and support of said college.
By the year 1843 the trustees of tlie college found the institu-
tion considerably in debt and petitioned the General Assembly of
Virginia for a loan of $18,000 from the Literary Fund, and by an
Act of the Assembly approved on the 27th of February, 1843, the
directors of the Literary Fund were authorized to loan to the
trustees of Emory and Henry College the sum of $18,000, provided
the trustees of said college would secure the payment of said sum of
$18,000 and its interest by a deed of trust upon all their property,
and by good personal security, and pursuant to this Act of the Assem-
bly the trustees of tlie college on the 24th of March, 1843, executed
to. Leverly E. Johnston a deed of trust upon all their real estate in
this county to secure the said sum of $18,000 and its interest, and
William Byars, Alexander Findla}^, Tobias Smith and other prom-
inent citizens of the county became endorsers on their note.
This incumbrance upon the property of the college was discharged
on August 20, 1890, by the trustees of Emory and Henry College
conveying to the Board of Public Works of Virginia 248 1-2 acres of
their real estate situated at Emory.
It should be stated to the credit of the management of this insti-
tution that, from the year 1843, the college, without an endowment,
was free from debt for about thirty years, and that the income from
tuition and board was not only sufficient to meet the current
expenses of the school, but the trustees were enabled to make con-
siderable improvement during this time, such as the erection of
handsome buildings and enlarging the library and apparatus. The
patronage of the school reached 280 pupils in the year 1860, and
since the close of the war has varied from 80 to 150.
Colonel William Byars and Governor Wyndham Eobertson, each,
in the early history of the college gave to the trustees a sum of
money the annual interest of which has for many years furnished
the Byars' Medal for the highest proficiency in Natural Sciences,
and the Eobertson prize medal for encouraging oratory, while Pro-
fessor James A. Davis donated to the college valuable instruments
costing about $700.
Moi"'^ than five thousand young men have been educated and more
than five hundred have Graduated from this institution in its his-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 579
tory. It has accomplished great good in its time, and the prospects
are that it will accomplish untold benefits to our country in the
fa Lure.
The presidents of this institution have been:
1837-1852, Eev. Charles Collins, M. A., D. D.
1862-1879, Eev. Ephraim E. Wiley, M. A., D. D.
1S79-18S0, John L. Buchanan, M. A., LL. D.
1880-188-1, Eev. David Sullins, M. A., D. D.
1884-1885, Eev. E. Embree Hoss, M. A., D. D.
and since that time, Thomas W. Jordan, Eev. James M. Atkins
and Eev. E. G. Waterhouse.
The location of Emory and Henry College is in a beautiful val-
ley nine miles east of Abingdon, just south of the extreme west end
ol Walker's mountain, and cannot be excelled for its beauty and fer-
tility anywhere in our country. The college is situated 2,000 feet
above the level of the sea, with the White Top mountain in plain
view, and directly upon the line of the Norfolk & Western Eailway.
LIBEETY HALL ACADEMY.
Liberty Hall Academy was founded in 18(36 — thirty-seven years
ago. It has ranked high as a school ever since. Its founder was
Eev. James Keys, who had taught successfully for many years in
Johnson county, Tennessee, and was driven out by the war. It is
a commodious brick building, built at Mr. Keys' O'Wn expense. He,
as principal, assisted by his daughter, Mrs. T. W. Hughes, had
charge until 1878.
His patronage exceeded that of any other school in the county ex-
cept Emory. In the year above mentioned Mr. Keys retired on ac-
count of age and infirmity, and the property was purchased by a board
of gentlemen of the Presbyterian Church. This purchase was made
in 1878. The object was to continue the school, and to that end they
signed and placed an agreement on record that the property should
be used for school purposes forever.
1'he first principal after the purchase was Professor T. W.
Hughes. He continued in charge seven years, and was STicceeded by
Eev. Mr. McClure, who resigned at the end of the second year. He
was succeeded by a number of gentlemen who remained for brief
periods and whose success was not conspicuous. Professor W. J.
Edmondson, at present county superintendent, became principal
in 1891, and continued in charge six years. The character of the
580 Sontliwest Virginia, 1740-1786.
school was fully sustaiiu'd under liiiu and tlu' patronage very large.
His successor was Professor \V. G. Edmondsoii, wlio resigned at the
end of the second year, and was succeeded by Professor Sam
Edmondson, the present principal.
Liberty Hall has been a school for thirty-seven years. Its average
patronage has been large. Its instructors have generally been men
•of first-class attainments. Its standard has always been high, and
no similar institution in Southwest Virginia has fitted as many
young men for college or sent into the ranks so many of the teach^ers
of our common schools.
While Liberty Hall Academy is nominally Presbyterian, it is not
in any sense denominational.
An effort is now being made to secure an endowment of $10,000,
by which means the salary of the principal will be secured, and rates
of tuition correspondingly lowered.
BAEEACK INSTITUTE.
While the writer has but little information in regard to Solomon
G. Barrack or the history of the institute established by his donation
near Love's Mill in this county, he thinks it worthy of note that
Solomon G. Barrack, a citizen of this county, and of very limited
means, by his will, which was executed prior to the war between
the States, devised the larger portion of his estate to Leonidas Love,
to be invested by him upon undoubted security as a school fund,
and directed that said fund be kept on interest, and the interest
expended yearly in paying the salary of a competent teacher under
the direction of Leonidas Love, David Jones, Oscar Love and
Charles Meek, and by the same will directed the erection of a school-
house upon a piece of land near Love's Mill, Virginia.
The gentlemen above named were incorporated under the name
and style of Trustees of Barrack Institute in the year 1866. The
school-house provided foT was erected under their supervision and
for now more than thirty-five years the youth of that community
have been enjoying the benefits oi educational advantages that they
would not have enjoyed had the founder of this institution been
actuated by selfish motives alone and conferred his property upon
his relatives.
The memory of Solomon G. Barrack is entitled to a position
along-side that of William King, and th'e memory of both should be
honored and respected by the citizens of this county.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 581
WHITE TOP MOUNTAIN.f
*"This is a peak in the Appalachian range, here more familiarly
known by the local name of Iron mountain, and near the point
^vhere the three States of Virginia, Tennessee and N'orth Carolina
all unite at a common corner. It is about twenty miles from
Abingdon the way the crow flies, though perhaps thirty by the
intricate bridle paths through intervening mountains, by which it
is approached. Until within a few years comparative!}', owing to its
inaccessibility, it was almiost in its primitive state, and visited
only by hunters and trappers, and here and there a "squatter," who
may have fled to its fastnesses to evade those penal exactments which
a certain class of men in most communities deem oppressive. It is
some 5,000 feet high from base to summit, and upwards of 6,000
feet above the level of the sea. Its summit is a vast field compris-
ing from 300 to 500 acres, witho'ut a tree or shrub, and covered with
a luxuriant growth of wild grass resembling that of our north-
western prairies, which is highly nutritious and cropped with
insatiable avidity by vast herds of stock driven from the neighbor-
ing settlements to graze and fatten. During th:e months ol May
and June, this field, as well as a large portion of the wooded parts
of the mountain, is gorgeously carpeted with wild flowers of every
imaginable hue, and so fragrant that their perfume is often wafted a
considerable distance on the wings of the wind, which sometimes
sweeps across the broad fields like the dying throes of a hurricane,
with fitful shrieks of wild and melancholy music.
Bordering this natural field are great numbers of native goose-
berry and currant bushes, which yield their acrid fruits in never-
failing abundance, and the wild leopard lily, springing from its
rocky bed, sways to and fro and scatters its rich perfume as the
blast sweeps by.
Upon the very summit, various springs of ice-cold water gusli
from the rocks and leap do\vn the declivities, babbling their wild
music as they disappear among the magnificent rhododendrons and
the dazzling crimson of the Indian pink. These waters are so
pure and light that they never oppress, no matter how freely the
thirsty visitor may quaff them.
The field above referred to is bordered by a very singular as
tFor illustration see page 282,
'*Cliarles B, Coale.
582 South tresl Virginia, 1746-1786.
well as very beautiful growth of timber, known in tliat region by
the name of Lashorn. Some of these trees grow to an immense
height, but generally are not more than from thirty to fifty feet
high, and, what is very remarkable, where not crowded they are
perfectly flat on top, spreading out to a diameter of from fifteen
to thirty feet. It is a species of, and very much resembles, Norway
spruce, an ornamental tree often found in the yards of our more
elegant city residences. The Lashorn of White Top mountain is
peculiar to that locality, and of the thousands that have been trans-
planted, not one has ever been known to grow, though some have
lived several years. The limbs at the top where they spread out are
so tenacious and inflexible, and so closely interlaced, that the writer
has seen as many as twenty persons standing and stepping about
upon the top of the same tree at the same time. It is very easy to
ascend and descend, as the limbs usually begin at the ground, and
being cut oft' about a foot from tlie trunk, a very convenient "Indian
ladder" is formed, and then a hole being cut through the foliage
in the centre of the top, it is not difficult for even a lady to ascend and
step out upon the vernal platform. Where the forest of this singular
and beautiful growth is dense there is no undergrowth, the trees
limbless to the height of forty or fifty feet, the tops intermingling
and forming a canopy the sun can scarcely penetrate, and the earth
covered with a carpet of lichen moss which feels to the tread as
soft and elastic as a sponge. During the summer months these
trees are literally alive with snow birds, the little creatures con-
gregating here in millions to build their habitations and rear their
yo'ung.
Notwithstanding the romantic beauty of this grand elevation,
and the exliilarating efPects of the highly rarified atmosphere upon
the system, himdreds and thousands have lived and died within sight
of it without ever having paid it a visit. The reason for tliis has
been the difficulty of access, want of accommodations in the vicinity,
and the mere cattle paths by which it is approached through deep
and intricate gorges, over steep foot-hills, and through almost
impenetrable laurel jungles, sometimes infested by bears, wolves,
wild-cats and rattlesnakes. There are but few of these "varmints"
there now.
The view from the summit of the White Top is grand beyond
idescription or even conception. Looking toward the south, you have
Washington County, 1777-1870. 583
within the scope of vision, stretching away from east to west, the
Blue Eidge Eange, which, in the dim distance, looks like an azure
band bordering the horizon, with here and there a tall peak hiding-
its head in the clouds. To the east, mountain piled upon mountain
meets the view, their gentler slopes in places dotted with "clearings,"
and a column of smoke, here ascending and there lying in long
folds along the mountain side, denoting the rude habitation of the
ruder "squatter." Looking toward the nortli you have the grand old
Cumberland range, the barrier that divides the "Dark and Bloody
Ground" from the Old Dominion, as if swelling up from an ocean of
green, and struggling to lift itself above the vapor that hangs lazily
upon its sides. To the west the view, though less imposing, is not
less beautiful. You have before you the broad valley of the Holston,
which, although diversified with hill and dale, bold promontories and
pine-clad ridges, still, from the altitude from which you look out
upon it, has the appearance of a vast sea dotted vsdth picturesque
islands. In the distance the spires and tin roofs of the town of
Abingdon glisten in the sunlight, large plantations look like blan-
kets spread out in the forest, and at intervals, as it dashes out from
behind a bluff, or winds its way through a green pasture, may the
White Top Fork of Laurel be seen, like a serpentine thread of silver,
its sparkling waters shimmering like diamonds among the foliage
and wild flowers upon its bank.
The writer of this has enjoyed the luxury of many a magnificent
scene in his wanderings, but has never seen that from the summit
of the White Top excelled, or even equaled. He was there on one
occasion when a storm came riding on the blast more than a thou-
sand feet below where a company of gentlemen were standing. The
whole valley was shrouded as with a pall. The deep-toned thunder
bellowed below, preceded by brilliant fla.shes of lightning, illuminat-
ing the dark bosom of the cloud. The scene was aw^fully grand, and
lo far transcends the powers of mortal description, tiiat he would
not dare attempt it."
ATATUEAL BEIDGE AND TUN^^EL OF SCOTT COUNTY.
One of the curiosities of Southwest Virginia is the Natural Tun-
nel and Bridge of Scott county. It spans a turbulent and rapid
stream bearing the name of Stock creek, and like the Natural Bridge
of Eockbridge county has a public road passing over it. It is not so
perfect a bridge as that of Eockbridge county, but is much grander
584 Soutlmest Virginia, 1746-1786.
in proportion and is laid out ujion a much more stupendous scale.
It is by actual measurement 420 feet high, about twice as high
as the Natural Bridge of Eockbridge county, and the face of the
structure is as smooth and perpendicular as if fashioned by the skill
of a mason. Its imperfections consist in being much wider than
long, and in the small proportion of arch to the immense mass of
rock above it. It is really more of a tunnel than a bridge, although a
public road crosses the chasm upon it. The tunnel is not straight,
but is in the sliape of an S, and from two to three hundred yards in
length."*
The track of the Virginia and Southwestern Railroad is located
through the tunnel, and the arcli is far more than sufficient for the
na??age of the train. In the vicinity of the tunnel there are several
large caves in wliieh are found a great variety of stalactites and sta-
lagmites in all stages of formation, and in tliese caves are found
Indian bones and many Indian relics.
SALTVILLE VALLEY.
The location of the Saltworks in this county was surveyed by John
Buchanan, a deputy surveyor of iVugusta county, for Charles Camp-
bell, on December 13, 1748, and in the plat that was returned with
the survey,! the words "Buffalo Lick," are written, and a patent for
the same was procured from the Governor of Virginia in 1753.
Charles Campbell was the father of General William Campbell, of
King's mountain celebrity, and, upon his death, General Campbell
became the owner of this tract of land, but the presence of salt water
upon this property was not discovered until about the time of the
death of General William Campbell, which occurred in 1781.
General William Campbell left two children, Sarah Buchanan
Campbell and Charles Henry Campbell, the latter dying at the
age of five years, and (*olonel Arthur Campbell and Colonel Wil-
liam Christian, upon the death of General Campbell, qualified as
guardians of his children, and they proceeded to improve this
property to a considerabe extent.
When the General Assembly of Virginia voted Charles Henry
Campbell five thousand acres of land in consideration of the distin-
guished services of his father, Colonel Arthur Campbell, his guard-
*Oharles B. Coale.
fSxirveyor's record, Augusta county, Staunton, Va.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 585
ian, entered this grant in the name of Charles Henry Campbell on
lands adjoining the Salt Lick tract, and this land passed, upon
the death of Charles Henry Campbell, to his sister, Miss Sarah
Buchanan Campbell, afterwards Mrs. General Francis Preston.
Some years after the death of General Campbell, his widow mar-
ried General William Eussell, who moved with his family to the Salt
Lick in February, 1788, and built what was afterwards known as
the "IMadam Eussell" house.
General Eussell dug a well on the margin of the flat in front of
his house, obtained salt water, and built a furnace and salt houses ;
the furnace was an open shed, and the kettles were the camp kettles
of that day, of a capacity of from eight to ten gallons.
A dispute arose between General Arthur Campbell and General
William Eussell, and, in 1.789, the court appointed Colonel Thomas
Madison, an uncle of Sai'ah Buchanan Campbell, her guardian in
the place of Colonels Campbell and Christian. In 1790 Colonel
Thomas Madison rcmoAcd to the Salt Lick, built a log cabin upon
the location of what was afterwards known as the Preston House,
and, digging a well, began tlie manufacture of salt, and continued
to manufacture it at this place until the marriage of his ward to
General Francis Preston in 17913.
In the meantime General William Eussell had died at the home of
his son, Eobert L. Eussell, in Culpeper county, on the 14th of Jan-
uary, 1793.
In 1795 General Francis Preston built an addition to the log
cabin of Thomas Madison, and, in 1797, upon his retirement from
the Congress of the United States, moved with his family to the
Salt Lick, and made his homo there until the year 1810, when he
removed to Abingdon.
Soon after General Preston located at the Salt Lick, he had
another well dug near that of Colonel Madison, and enlarged the
furnaces and the kettles.
In 1795 William King bought 150 acres to the west of the Preston
tract, and in 1799 erected furnaces and other buildings thereon and
began the manufacture of salt. On the 30th of February, 1801, he
rented the Preston Salines for the period of ten years, for $12,000
per year, and manufactured salt with great success until the date of
his death, which occurred in 1808. From that time until the year
586 Southwest Virginia, 17Ji6-1786.
1819, the works were carried on by James King, William Trigg,
Mar}^ King, Charles S. Carson, executor of James King, and Lilburn
L. L. Henderson, execntor of William Trigg.
On the 17th of June, 1819, the Saltworks were leased to John
Saunders for five j^ears from August 1, 1819, at an annual rental
of $30,000, but Saunders, during the following years, assigned his
lease to James White, who renewed the lease and continued his
operations until September 3. 1833. The Saltworks were then leased
to Alexander McCall and William King at an annual rental of
$15,972 for the King Saltworks, and $16,000 for the Preston
Salines, during the life of Mrs. William Trigg, and they continued
in possession of the property until ] 845, when Thomas L. Pres':on
took charge of the Preston Saline, and King and McCall and Find-
la}^, Mitchell & Company took joint possession of the King Salt-
works.
In 1846 Thomas L. Preston rented the King estate from the
court at an annual rental of $16,000 for five years, and at the
expiration of his lease, Wyndham Robertson became the lessee
thereof for the period of five years, and was in turn succeeded by
Thomas L. Preston, who, in the j^ear 1858, rented both estates tO'
Spencer, Ackerman & Company. In 1863, Stuart, Palmer and
Parker purchased the Preston property, and in 1864 a joint stock
company of the two estates was formed under the title of the Holston
Salt and Plaster Company, and this company continued business
until 1893, when the present proprietors of the Mathieson Alkali
Works became the owners of the two estates.
The King Salines, in the year 1819, produced from 90,000 to
100,000 bushels of salt per year, and in 1861-1865 the production
of the Saltworks was many times greater than in the year 1819.
The larger portion of all the salt used in the Southern States during
that time was supplied from the SaltAvorks, it being a common thing
to see as many as a thousand salt wagons at one time at the Salt-
works during the period mentioned.
Since 1893 the present company have manufactured soda and
other alkalies upon an extensive scale, and employ hundreds of
hands.
In the eighteenth century, and soon after the discovery of salt
water at the Salt Lick, the bones of a mammoth, the king of the
\and animals, were dug up by the laborers at. the Preston Salines,_
Washington County, 1777-1870. 587
They were from three to seven feet below the surface of earth, and
furnished convincing proof that the mammoth was formerly an
inhabitant of this country.
NEWSPAPEES.
By the year 1806, the enterprising citizens of this county had
secured the services of a printer, and a newspaper outfit had
arrived at Abingdon, and on the 4th day of January, 1806, the
first newspaper published in this portion of Virginia was given to
the public. The editor of this paper was John G. Ustick, who
afterwards married a Miss Berry, of this county, and the name of
the paper was the Holston Intelligencer and Abingdon Advertiser.
This paper was published every Tuesday, and the subscription price
was $2 per annum, payable half-yearly in advance, if the sub-
scription was paid in cash, but if paid in produce the subscription
was required to be paid for the entire year in advance. When the
subscriber neglected to pay his subscription in advance, the price
was fJteen shillings per annum, half of which was to be collected at
any period after the commencement of each six months, subscrip-
tions to the paper to be withdrawn at the end of each six months
on the payment of arrearages, but not otherwise. The terms of
advertising were 63 1-2 cents per square for the first insertion and
three dollars for chancery notices. This paper was ably edited by
Mr. Ustick, was uncompromising in its Eepublicanism, advocating
the policies of Madison and supporting his administration upon all
occasions.
In the year 1812, Mr. Ustick changed the name of this paper from
the Holston Intelligencer and Abingdon Advertiser „ to the Political
Prospect, and continued to publish the Political Prospect until the
year 1830.
Mr. Ustick was not only an enterprising editor, but he was a,
patriotic citizen, and in February, 1815, being a member of the
Eifle Company formed at Abingdon, he accompanied this com-,
pany upon their expedition to Norfolk and was absent from his
home for nearly five months, as he says, "in the service of a. righteous
government and a holy cause." The descendants of the editor of the
first newspaper published in this portion of Virginia have entirely
disappeared from among our people.
Mr. Ustick was succeeded by James Alexander, who published a,
newspaper in Abingdon from 18;30-LS35, under the title of the^
588 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Virginia Republican. As to the character of this paper I can say
nothing, as I have been unable to obtain a copy of the same.
Alexander was succeeded by J. W. Lampkin, who published a
newspaper in Abingdon from 1835-1838, called the Virginia States-
man.
In the year 1838, Mr. Lampkin formed a partnership with Charles
B. Coale, and this partnership published the Southwest Virginian
from 1838 to 1840, in the old frame building that stood on the
southeast corner of the jail lot in the rear of the courthouse. No
copy of the Virginia Statesman or Southtvest Virginian is now in
existence, and nothing is known of the policy or character of these
papers. The editors of these papers were men of character and
ability, John W. Lampkin being a young lawyer of fine attain-
ments. He subsequently mariied and removed to Kussell county,
where his descendants are to be found at this time, while Charles B.
Coale continued to reside in Abingdon, and won a place in the
hearts of the people of this country that will be forgotten only
when the sons of the fathers who had the pleasure of reading the
old Abingdon Virginian have all passed away.
In 1810, John N. Humes became the owner and editor of the
Southwest Virginian and published the same in the building occu-
pied by the Academy ^of Visitation east of the creek in East
Abingdon.
While no copy of this paper has been preserved, there can be no
question as to its politics, as John N. Humes was one of the leaders
of the Whig party, at the time in question, in Southwest Virginia.
In this year, he was the elector for this district upon the presidential
ticket headed by William Henry Harrison.
In March, 1841, George R. Barr and Charles B. Co-ale became the
owners of the Southwest Virginian and began the publication of
the Abingdon Virginian as a Whig paper in the town of Abing-
don, and continued the publication of this paper until the year
1873, with but one interruption.
When the town of x'Vbingdon was destroyed by fire on the 15th of
December, 1864, the Abingdon Virginian was published in the
brick building opposite the Colonade Hotel (now occupied by C. A.
Pobst), and, of course, was destroyed at the same time that the
building was burned. The publication of the Abingdon Virginian
was resumed in December, 18G5. This paper during the thirty-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 589
three years that it was published by Coale & Barr, was, beyond doubt,
one of the most readable and deservedly popular country newspapers
tliat have ever been furnished to the public in this section of Virginia.
During the war between the States, notwithstanding the great diffi-
culties which confronted the newspaper publisher, the Abingdon
Virginian never failed to stand nobly by its people or to issue weekly
until the destruction of its plant as b'efore described.
In the year 1863, the following advertisement appeared in the
Abingdon Virginian:
"EAGS !
"We call upon everybody who has rags, rich and poor, old and
young, learned and unlearned, to send them to us and get foi;r
cents per pound, or more if demanded. We are obliged to have
them or stop printing. So send them along for humanity's sake,
and help us to keep the machine in motion."
In the year 1873, the Abingdon Virginian was transferred to
George R. Dunn, and soon afterwards became the property of
George W. Ward.
The Abingdon Virginian, as published by Coale & Barr, advo-
cated in a high-toned and able manner the Whig cause, and the ef-
fect upon the politics of the people would have been exceedingly
dangerous if not counteracted.
In December, 1841, at the instance of the Democratic leaders in
Washington county, Eobert Latham became the editor and W. R.
Fitzsimmons the publisher of a Democratic paper in the town of
Abingdon called The Banner. This paper, a copy of which is now
in existence, was a very creditable publication. In the copy now in
existence is to be found an account of a Democratic mass-meeting
held in the town of Abingdon on the second of March, 1843, at
which meeting Colonel Samuel E. Goodson was nominated for the
Legislature, and in the proceedings of the meeting Colonel Harold
Smyth, Colonel William Byars, Eobert Latham, Dr. Nick Snead,
Tobias Smith, John W. S. Watson, Parker Smith and James Davis
took an active part. This paper survived but a few years, and was
succeeded by a paper called the Jachsonian, edited by W. E. Pitz-
simmon. The Jacksonian was published in a house owned by Jack-
son Toncray, on the lot now owned by S. N". Honaker, opposite tlie
former residence of James K. Gibson in East Abingdon.
The Jacksonian ceased to exist in 1846, and the outfit was sold
590 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
to Dr. H. F. Peery, who removed the same to Jeffersonville, now
Tazewell Courthouse, Virginia, and, in the year 1847, began the
publication of the Jeffcrsonville Democrat.
On the 28th of i\.pril, 1849, Leonidas Baugh, of Abingdon, be-
gan the publication of the A hingdon Democrat, a paper strong in
its advocacy of Democratic principles, to which the greater part oi
its space was devoted. This paper thrived for a number of years,
but was transferred by Mr. Baugh some time after his appointment
as postmaster at Abingdon, in 1853, to John B. Floyd, and the paper
was thereafter, until the year 1857, published by J. M. H. Brunet, of
Petersburg, who soon died, and then the paper passed into the hands
of Stephen J. Pendleton.
In the year 1857, this paper was sold at public auction to pay
the debts of Mr. Pendleton, and Henry W. Baker became tlie editor
and owner thereof, and continued to publish said paper until 1861,
when the plant was sold to the Southern Advocate, Groodson, Vir-
ginia.
From this time until the year 1876, the Ahingdon Virginian was
the only newspaper published in Abingdon.
In April, 1882, Georg'e W. Gary, of Eiclimond, began the publi-
cation in Abingdon of a monthly paper called The Trade Journal,
and continued the publication of the same until the year 1883, when
lie became the owner and editor of the Ahingdon Virginian. Mr.
Gary conducted an excellent and successful paper until the year
1890, when the entire outfit was sold and transferred to the Abing-
don Publishing Company, which company had become the owner
of the Standard, a Democratic newspaper that had been established
in Abingdon in the year 1876 and was edited by Hindlay Harris,
lifterwards by Samuel P. Withers and then by P. E. Hardwick.
The Virginian, under the management of Judge Ward, strongly
advocated the cause of the Eeadjuster party in Virginia. After
the retirement of Judge Ward from the Ahingdon Virginian, he
became the owner and editor of the Southwest Examiner, a Eead-
juster-Democratic paper, but after Judge Ward went upon the
bench the Southwest Examiner passed into the hands of E. E.
Hardwick and in a short while ceased to exist. The Ahingdon
Virginian, during the ownership of the Abingdon Publishing Co)r\-
pany, was edited by Thomas H. Mason and W. F. Smith.
While the paper Avas well edited, it was a financial failure, and in
Washington County, 1777-1810. . 591
the year 1896 was sold at public auction and purchased by L. P.
Summers. The Virginian from this time till June, 1001. was an
advocate of Republican principles and was a success financially.
Upon the acquisition of the Abingdon Virginian by »bammer3
in 1896, and during the five years of his ownership, a number of
efforts were made by the advocates of the Democratic party to estab-
lish a Democratic paper in the town.
In the year 1897, the Glad& Spring Citizen was removed to
Abingdon and began publication as a Democratic paper, ''The
Citizen'' with G. C. Porterfield as editor, but within the year the
newspaper outfit became the property of the editor of the Virginian,
and Mr. Porterfield became a strong advocate of the Republican
party.
In the year 1899, J. AV. Lyons, of Greenville, Tennessee, became
the editoT of a newspaper in Abingdon, to which was given the
name of the Abingdon Democrat.
This effort upon the part of Mr. Lyons proved a failure and in
the spring of the year 1900 he returned to Greenville, his former
home.
In the fall of the year 1900, Thomas S. Hamilton and George H.
McCormick began the publication of the Washington Herald, a
Democratic newspaper, in the Scott building in West Abingdon.
This venture also proved a failure, and the property of the Herald
was sold and transferred to the editor of the Virginian, in the same
year, since which time no effort has been made to establish a rival
newspaper to the Virginian in Abingdon.
On the night of the 29th of May, 1898, the Greenway store was
destroyed by fire; the offices of the Abingdon Virginian caught
therefrom and the entire outfit was destroyed, but by the fall of the
same year a one-story brick building had been erected upon the site
of the former frame building and the publication of the Virginian
was resumed.
The Virginian became the property of E. M. Slack by purchase on
June 11, 1901, and has since been edited by him.
The present editor of the Abingdon Virginian is yo'ung, intelli-
gent, independent and enterprising to a degree that is seldom
excelled in this country, and in the opinion of the author he is the
best-equipped newspaper man that the town has seen in many years.
593 Souihivest Virginia, 1746-1786.
The newspaper of which he is the editor is beyond question the
best country newspaper to be found in the Soutliwest.
JUDICIARY.
A distinguished historian has said that "the laws of a country
are necessarily connected with everytliing belonging to the people
?of it, so that a thorough knowledge of them and their progress
would inform us of everything that was most useful to be known
al)out them, and one of the greatest imperfections of historians in
general is owing to their ignorance of law."*
While a thorough knowledge of the laAV is necessary to a com-
plete understanding of the history of a country, at this point we
regret the necessity that compels to a brief notice of the courts that
have administered the law in this Commonwealth and county.
Prior to the Eevolutionary war, the laws of this Common-
wealth were administered in the county or monthly courts and in
a general court wliich was held first at Jamestown and afterwards
at Williamsburg.
The county or monthly courts were composed of a number of
persons coimnissioned by the Governor and Council, and theirs
was an extensive jurisdiction, wdiile the general court was composed
of the Governor and Council, any five constituting a court, and it
had jurisdiction to hear and determine all causes whatsoever relating
to or concerning any person or persons, ecclesiastical or civil, or to
any person or thing of any nature whatsoever, whether brought
before them by original process, appeal from an inferior court or
by any other way or means, its jurisdiction being limited only to
controversies of the value of ten pounds sterling or 2,000 pounds
of tobacco and upwards. It had exclusive criminal jurisdiction of
all cases of free persons wherein the judgment on conviction was
loss of life or member.
After the Eevolution, the county courts were continued and a
Court of Appeals, High Court of Chancery, a General Court and a
Gonrt of Admiralty were established. The judges of said courts
were chosen by the General Assembly and commissioned by the
Governor.
The Court of Appeals was established in May, 1779, and was
composed of the judgeg of the High Court of Ohancery^ Gejieral
*Priestly,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 593
Court and Court of Admiralty, until 1788, when five judges were
chosen by the General Assembly and commissioned by the Governor.
This co'urt, from the timje of its establishment until 1830, was the
supreme civil tribunal of the State, and since that time it has been
the supreme civil and criminal tribunal of the State.
The first president of this court was Edmund Pendleton. The
General Court was composed of ten Judges and was the supreme
criminal tribunal of the State until 1830, when it was abolished.
The Admiralty Court ceased to exist upon the adoption of the Fed-
eral Constitution.
County Courts.
"The institution of tlie County Court originated as early as
1623-4; and as it is the most ancient, so it has ever been one of the
most important, of our institutions, not only in respect of the
administration of justice, but for police and economy. They were
first called monthly courts. At first only two of them were estab-
lished, and their jurisdiction was jealously limited to petty contro-
versies, reserving for the party cast the right of appeal to the Gov-
ernor and Council, who were the judges of what were then called
quarter courts. In 1642-3, the style of monthly courts was changed
to that of county courts, the colonial assembly having previously
begun and continuing thenceforward to enlarge their duties, powers
and jurisdictions and to extend the system to every county, as it
was laid ofi'. As early as 1645 they had been matured into courts
of general jurisdiction, in law and equity, and the most important
duties in the matters of police and economy were confided to them.
In 1661-2, the Governor and Council were constituted itinerant jus-
tices, to sit in the county courts, but that provision was repealed the
next year. Hitherto the judges of the county courts had been styled
commissioners of the county courts, but in 1661-2 it was enacted
that they should take the oath of justices of the peace and be called
justices of the peace. These tribunals now assumed a perfectly
regular form and their functions were ever after so important
that their institution may well be considered as a part of the Con-
stitution, both of the colonial and the present government. No
material change was introduced by the revolution in their jurisdic-
tion or general powers or duties of any kind.^'*
The county court remained unchanged until the year 1850, and
*Henning's Statutes at Large.
594 Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
it is impossible for any man to estimate the character and utility of
tliis system without actual experience of its operation. The mem-
bers of this court, prior to 1850, were recommended to the Gov-
ernor by the county courts of their respective counties, were com-
missioned by the Governor and held office during good behavior.
They served without pay and were selected by reason of their charac-
ter and ability.
The Constitution of 1850 made the members of this court elective
by the people, and they were allowed a small fee for their services.
From this time until the year 1870, we find a great deterioration in
the character of the members of this court, and its efficacy was to a
great extent destroyed. This court was abolished by the Constitu-
tion of 1868.
Can anyone question the character and efficiency of a court pre-
sided over by such men as Arthur Campbell, William Campbell,
Daniel Smith, M^illiam Edmiston, James Dysart, John Kinkead,
Eobert Craig, James White, John Goodson, Eobert Davis, John
Gibson, Eeub'en Bradley, James Cummings, John Preston, Jr.,
Francis Preston, Charles Tate, William P. Thompson, Thomas
McChesney, John M. Preston, John Eakin, M. B. Tate, Tobias
Smith, Henry Davenport and many others, presiding justices of this
court during its existence ?
Upon the abolition of the old county court by the Constitution
of 1-868, a new institution came into existence, to-wit: the county
co'urt of the present time. This court exercised a criminal jurisdic-
tion concurrent with the Circuit Court and a limited civil jurisdic-
tion. The first session of this court in this county was held on the
S5th day of April, 1870, Judge B. M. Page presiding, Leonidas
Baugh clerk, and Beverly R. Johnston Commonwealth's Attorney.
This court has been abolished by the Constitution of 1902, and
will cease to exist on the first day of February, 1904, and such a
thing as a county court will no longer be heard of in this Common-
wealth, after an existence of nearly 300 years.
Th'^ judges presiding in this court since the date of its for"ina-
tion in 1870 are as follows:
1870-1880, R. M. Page.
1880-1881, George W. Ward.
1882-1886, William F. Ehea.
1886-188,7, Francis B. Hutton.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 595
1887-1897, George W. Ward.
1897-1904, David C. Cummings, Jr.
The attorneys representing the Commonwealth in this coiinly
from the organization of the county until the year 1850 were
appointed first by the Attorney-General of the State, upon the
recommendation of the county court, and were after that time
elected by the county court.
The first Commonwealth's Attorney of Washington comity, being
the first lawyer qualifying to practise in the courts of this county,
was Ephraim Dunlop, who came from Pennsylvania. He had but
one leg, the other having been amputated above the middle of the
thigh. He had some capacity, but was a drunkard. He was
appointed prosecuting attorney for this county in the year 1777, and
was pretty severe upon the Tories, many of whom had taken refuge
in the mountains. On one occasion Dr. Brooks, whose right arm
was palsied, was passing along the road below town when he found
Dimlop, who had fallen from his horse, lying with his foot in the
stirrup and his head on the ground, the horse standing perfectly still
and quiet. The Doctor having no use of his right arm and Dunlop
having but one leg, made the case a difficult one to decide what he
should do. He dismounted, however, and succeeded in getting Dun-
lop into his saddle, intending to take him to the next house. After
balancing and straightening Dunlop as well as he could in his saddle,
he mounted his own horse and they started, but in a few yards
Dunlop made a move in his saddle and down he went again. The
horse seemed to be conscious of the state of things and stood still
again. The Doctor dismounted again and raised him to his horse's
back, then, by riding close to him on his leg side, he kept him
from falling until he brought him to a house, half a mile from
where he fell.
When soher, Dunlop was interesting. At the bar he would rise
and place his stump of a thigh on the bar and in that manner steady
himself and then proceed with whatever he had to say to the court.
He was listened to with attention.
After the courts were organized in Sullivan county, Ke attended
them, and some ten or fifteen years afterwards died on the road
between Abingdon and Blountville. I believe he had no family.*
Since the year 1852, the attorneys representing the Common-
*David Campbell MSS.
596 Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
wealth in this county have been elected by the people. The attor-
neys representing tlie Conmionwealth in this county since the organ-
ization of the county have been as follows :
1777, Ephraim Dunlop.
. . . ., Benjamin Estill.
1831, Henry St. John Dixon.
1831-1837, Edward Campbell.
1837-1855, Samuel Logan.
1855- , George Eakin Naff.
1855-1863, John H. Ernest.
1863-1865, Joseph T. Campbell.
1865-1869, Rees B. Edmondson.
1869- , Henry C. AuviL
1869-1870, J. S. Slater.
1870- , Beverly R. Johnston.
1870-1872, James L. White.
1872-1884, Connally F. Trigg.
1884-1885, George W. Ward.
1885-1887, John L. Rowan.
1887-1891, John C. Summers. • •
1891-1895, Francis B. Hutton.
1895-1904, Feter J. Davenport.
The clerks of the county court from the organization of the gov-
ernment of this county until the year 1852, were elected by the
county court, and since the year 1852, they have been elected by
the people. The clerks of this court from its first organization until
the present time have been as follows :
17,77-1779, David Campbell.
1779-1824, John Campbell.
1824-1837, David Campbell. :
1837-1858, Jacob Lynch.
1858-1865, John G. Kreger.
1865-1869, James C. Campbell.
1869-1870, Charles McDougal.
1870-1871, Leonidas Baugh.
1871-1887, William G. G. Lowry.
1887-1897, David C. Cummings, Jr.
1897-1904, Robert Preston Cummings.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 597
District Courts.
The General Assembly at its session in the year 1784, for the pur-
pose of rendering the administration of justice more expeditions
and convenient and less burthensome to individuals and to the
Commonwealth, passed an Act establishing courts of assize through-
out the Commonwealth, for the trial of issues and inquiry of dam-
ages, in suits then pending in the General Court, and such as may
thereafter be brought, and also for the trial of all treasons, felonies
and other crimes and misdemeanors that should be brought before
the court. This court was to be held by two judges of the General
Court, and it was directed that all verdicts of said court should be
certified to the General Court at Kichmond. The State was divided
into districts. The counties of Montgomery and Washington
formed one district, and it was directed that this court of assize
should meet at Washington Courthouse and Fort Chiswell, alter-
nately, on the lOth day of May and on the 11th day of October of
each year. This Act never went into operation, but after several
suspensions it was succeeded by an Act of the Assembly, in the year
1788, establishing district courts.
The Act establishing the district courts became a law on the 23d
day of December, 1788, and directed that the Commonwealth, except
tlie district of Kentucky, should be divided into districts, and a
superior court held in each on the 9th of June and the 9th of
No'vember in each year.
The counties of Washington, Montgomery and Eussell composed
one district, and it was directed that a court should be Held at Wash-
ington and Montgomery courthouses alternatelj^, on the 2d day of
May and the 2d day of October in each year. This court was to
be held by two judges of the General Court assigned for that pur-
pose. The jurisdiction of the district courts, as fixed by this Act,
was as follows : "Over all persons in all causes, matters or things at
common law, then cognizable in the General Court, amounting to
thirty pounds sterling money or 3,000 pounds of tobacco, whether
brought before the court by original process or by appeal from the
County Court." This court was given the power to hear and deter-
mine all treasons, murders, felonies and other crimes and misde-
meanors committed within their district.
Claiborne Watkins was the first clerk of this court, and lived at
Abingdon and discharged the duties of this office for many years.
The Act establishing the district courts was amended in December,
598 ? Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
1789, and it was directed that Washington, Wythe and Russell
counties should form a district, that the next court for said
district should he held at the courthouse of the county of Wythe,
late the courthouse of the county of Montgomery (Fort Chiswell),
and that, thereafter, every court for said district should be held at
Washington courthouse. This court continued to exist until it was
succeecJed by the Superior Court of Laws, established in the year
1808.
The General Assembly in the year 177.7, established a High Court
of Chancery composed of three judges selected by the General
Assembly and commissioned by the Governor, to hold office during
good behavior. This court was held at Williamsburg and afterwards
at Richmond, in the months of April and September of each year,
with a general jurisdiction over all person^ and causes in chancery,
whether by original process or appeal, where the amount in con-
troversy exceeded ten pounds. The judges of this court were after-
wards reduced to one, George Wythe, who was the president of the
first court.
On the 23d of January, 1803, the General Assembly of Virginia
divided the State into three districts and established a superior
court of chancery in each. The county of Washington was included
in the Western District, and the High Court of Chancery for this
district was directed to be held at Staunton on the 12th of March,
the 1st of July and the 15th of November of each year. This court
exercised the jurisdiction formerly exercised by the High Court of
Chancery as originally established, and was to be held by. a judge
selected by the General Assembly and commissioned by the Governor,
The Honorable John Brown, of Staunton, was elected judge of
this court and discharged the duties of the same until the year 1827,
when he was succeeded by the Honorable Allen Taylor, of Botetourt
coimty, who discharged the duties of this office until the year 1831,
when this court was merged into the Circuit Superior Court of
Law and Chancery.
The General Assembly in 1818 divided the Commonwealth into
nine districts, instead of three districts as formerly, and directed
that a Superior Court of Chancery should be held in each of said
districts.
The counties of Lee, Russell, Scott, Washington, Tazewell, Wythe,
Grayson, Giles and Montgomery composed the Eighth District, and
Washington County, 1777-1870. 599
a Superior Court of Chancery was held at Wythe courthouse on the
Monday first succeeding each term of the Superior Court of Law
for the said county in every year, and after this time a Superior
Court of Chancery was held at Wythe courthouse, by Judge Brown
until 1837, and by Judge Taylor until 1831.
A portion of the records of this court are still to be found at
Wythe courthouse, and present to the practicing attorney at this
day a clear- idea of the proceedings of the court of that time.
During the existence of this court, every paper connected with a
chancery cause was recorded in the minute book of the court, and
in one case decided by this court the process, bill, answer, deposi-
tions of witnesses and other papers connected with the suit fill one
entire book of several hundred pages.*
The General Assembly, on the 1st of February, 1808, amended
the Act of 1789 establishing the district courts, divided the Com-
monwealth into twelve districts, established a superior court of law
in each of i^aid districts and directed that a judge of the General
Court should be allotted to each of said districts and should hold a
superior court of law twice a year at the courthouse of each county
in said district.
The counties of Grayson, Washington, Lee, Russell, Tazewell,
Giles, Montgomery and Wythe compost.d the Fourth Circuit, and
the Hon. William Brockenbrough, a Judge of the General Court,
was assigned to this district and di3(;liarged the duties of the same
with marked ability until May, 1811, when he was succeeded by the
Hon. Peter Johnson, f a judge of the General Court, who discharged
the duties of the office until June 6th, 1831, when the Superior Court
of La-\.- was merged into the Circuit Superior Court of Law and
Chancery.
The General Assembly of Virginia, pursuant to the provisions of
the Constitution of 1829-1830, rearranged the conrts of the Com-
monwealth and established the Circuit Superior Court of Law and
Chancery, which court superseded the Superior Court of Law and
the Superior Court of Chancery.
The first session of this court was held at Abingdon on the 6th
*Pierce vs. Jackson, etc
f Judges Brockenbrough and Johnston exchanged circuits, Johnston being a
native of Prince Edward county.
600 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
of June, 1831, Benjamin Estill presiding. This court continued to
be the principal court of this section until the year 1870, when some
alterations were made in the jurisdiction of the court and the name
was changed to the Circuit Court.
The judges presiding in this court during its existence have been
1831-1852, Benjamin Estill.
1852-1857, George W. Hopkins.
1857-18G2, Samuel V. Fulkerson.
1862-1869, John A. Campbell.
1869-1870, John W. Johnston.
1870-1895, Jolm A. Kelly.
1895-1904, John P. Shefi'ey.
Judge Fulkerson, in the spring of the year 1861, was elected col-
onel of the Thirty-seventh Virginia Eegiment of Volunteer Infan-
try, in which capacity he served until the fall of 1862, when he
was shot and killed in one of the battles near Eichmond. During his
absence in the army Judges Andrew S. Fulton, David McComas and
G. D. Camden presided over the courts held at Abingdon.
The Constitution adopted in the year 1902 made soroie alterations
in the courts of the State, and the Greneral Assembly of Virginia on
the 13th day of February, 1903, elected Francis B. Hutton, of
Abingdon, judge of the Twenty-third Circuit, composed of the coun-
ties of Eussell, Washington and Smyth.
Upon the organization of the district court in the year 1788,
Claiborne Watkins was appointed clerk of the court, and, as far
as I can ascertain, he and Andrew Eussell performed the duties of
this office until the year 1830.
The clerks of the old District Court, the Superior Court of Law,
the Superior Court of Chancery and the Circuit Superior Court of
Law and Chancery were appointed by the court until the year 1852,
and from that time they have been elected by the people. The clerks
of the Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chancery and the Cir-
cuit Court have been as follows :
1831-1838, Andrew Eussell.
1838-1853, Connally F. Trigg, Sr.
1853-1865, Peter J. Branch.
1865-1869, David Campbell Cummings, Sr.
1869-1870, John O'Neal.
1870-1871, Dr. A. E. Preston.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 601
1871-1887, L. Thomson Cosby.
1887-1893, John G. Kreger.
1893-1904, John M. Kreger.
When an effort was made to secure the photographs of the
deceased judges of this court for use in this history, the propriety of
securing and placing their photogi'aphs in the courthouse of this
county was discussed by several members of the bar, and, as a result,
a meeting of the bar was called for the 8th of October, 1901, which
meeting, after discussing the matter, appointed Daniel Trigg, James
L. White, F. B. Hutton, E. M. Page and L. P. Summers, a commit-
tee to secure the portraits of the deceased judges of this court and to
make the necessary arrangements for hanging said portraits in the
court-room of the court, and i6 wait upon the Board of Supervisors
of this county and request that they place the court-room in a suita-
ble condition for said portraits. This action of the bar was made an
order of the Circuit Court. The committee ap})ointcd proceeded to
the discharge of their duties and secured portraits of Judges Peter
Johnston and John W. Johnston from Dr. George Ben Johnston,
of Eichmond, photographs of Judges Samuel V. Fulkerson and
John A. Kelly from Colonel Sanuiel V. Fulkerson and Joseph L.
Kelly, of Bristol, and photographs of Judges Estill, Hopkins and
Campbell from friends.
The Board of Supervisors in answer to the request of this com-
mittee appointed J. D. Williams, J. 0. Susong and J. C. Hayter, of
the board, and James L. White, W. I. Newton and F. B. Hutton
outside thereof, a committee to superintend the repairs to the court-
house, and by the spring- of the year 1903 the repairs were completed
and the committee reported their proceedings to the judge of the
Circuit Court.. Their report was received and entered of record, f
and thereupon the court appointed L. P. Summers, Preston W.
Campbell, John W. Neal, W. H. Eobertson and John J. Stuart a
committee to arrange a program for the exercises attending the pre-
sentation of the portraits of the deceased judges to the county of
Washington.
This committee arranged a program and reported their action to
the court, wliich report was received and made a matter of record.*
*Law Order Book, Circuit Court, K, page 116.
f Law Order Book, Circuit Court, K, page 133.
602 Southwest Virginia, nifS-nse.
The presentation exercises were held on the 11th day of May,
1903, and the following program was rendered on that occasion:
Chairman, Judge John P. Shefifey.
Secretary, John M. Kreger.
Portrait of Judge Peter Johnston.
Speech of presentation by Captain J. L. Whifc
Portrait of Judge Benj. Estill.
Speech of presentation by L. P. Summers, Esquire.
Portrait of Judge G. W. Hopkins.
Speech of presentation l\y Daniel Trigg, Esquire.
Portrait of Judge S. V. Fulkerson.
Speech of presentation by Judge E. M. Page.
Portrait of Judge John A. Campbell.
Speech of presentation by William E. Burns, Esquire.
Portrait of Judge John W. Johnston.
Speech of presentation by D. F. Bailey, Esquire.
Portrait of Judge John A. Kelly.
Speech of presentation by Judge Jolm. A. Buchanan.
Manuscript remarks of Hon. Patrick Hagan read by John J.
Stuart, Esquire.
Speech of acceptance on behalf of the Supervisors of Washington
county. Judge F. B. Hutton.
United States Circuit and District Courts.
In the year 18 — , the Congress of the United States created a
district in Western Virginia, to which was given the name of the
Western District of Virginia, and soon thereafter the court of said
district was organized. For many years this court was held at
Wytheville, but it was subsequently removed to Abingdon. This
district at the present time is composed of the following counties :
Alleghany, Albemarle, Amherst, Appomattox, Augusta, Bath, Bed-
ford, Bland, Botetourt, Buchanan, Buckingham, Campbell, Carroll,
Charlotte, Clarke, Craig, Cumberland, Dickenson, Floyd, Fluvanna,
Franklin, Frederick, Giles, Grayson, Greene, Halifax, Henry, High-
land, Lee, Madison, Montgomery, Nelson, Page, Patrick, Pulaski,
Pittsylvania, Eappahannock, Eoanoke, Eockbridge, Eockingham,
Eussell, Seott, Shenandoah, Smyth, Tazewell, Warren, Washington,
Wise and Wythe.
Courts are held at five points in the district, semi-annually, to-
wit: Abingdon, Roanoke, Harrisonburg, Lynchburg and Danville,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 603
The jurisdiction of this court is confined to matters arising under
the Constitution and laws of the United States.
This court, from the time of its first meeting in Abingdon until
the year 1891, held its sessions on the second floor of the county
courthouse of this county.
Some time previous to the year 1884, through the efforts of Col-
onel Abram Fulkerson and General William Mahone, the Con-
gress of the United States appropriated money sufficient to erect
a handsome courthouse in Abingdon for the accommodation of the
United States courts, which courthouse was completed in the year
1891, at an expense to the United States of $85,000, including the
furnishing of the same, and was occupied the same year.
The judges of this court, so far as I have been able to ascertain,
have been:
18 — , Judge Caldwell, of Wheeling.
1839-1846, Isaac S. Pennypacker, of Harrisonburg.
1846-1871, John W. Brockenbrough, of Lexington.
1871-1883, Alexander Eives, of Albemarle.
1883-1900, John Paul, of Harrisonburg.
1900 , Henry Clay McDowell, of Big Stone Gap.
The clerks of this court have been as follows :
1839 , Thomas L. Moore.
1839-1846, E. W. Moore.
1846-18—, Erasmus Stribling.
1861 , Joseph W. Caldwell.
1871-1874, E. S. Watson.
1874-1884, Benjamin Gildersleeve.
1884 , Isaac Chapman Fowler.
The attorneys representing the United States in this court since
1871 are as follows:
1871 , Eobert W. Hughes.
1871-1883, Warren S. Lurty.
1882-1885, Daniel Sheffey Lewis.
1885-1889, Henry C. Allen.
1889-1893, William E. Craig.
1893-1897, A. J. Montague.
1897-1901, T. M. Alderson.
1901-1905, Thomas Lee Moore.
The marshals of this court since 1855 have been as follows :
604 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
1855 , Jefferson T. Martin.
1871-1878, Algernon S. Gray.
1878-1882, John F. Lewis.
1883-1886, John G. Watts.
1886-1887, Samuel L. Graham.
1887-1890, James E. Jordan.
1890-1893, John G. Watts.
1893-1898, George W. Levi.
1898-190-, S. Brown Allen.
In addition to the officers above named, several of the citizens of
this county and district, to-wit: F. B. Hutton, David F. Bailey,
John J. Stuart and John C. Blair, have discharged the duties of
assistant district attorney in this court with distinguished ability.
PRESBYTEEIANISM IN WASHINGTON COUNTY.
Tlie first settlers of Washington county were principally Presi)y-
terian in belief and of Scotch-Irish descent, and as early as the
year 177S the Rev. John Craig and the Rev. James Campbell, Pres-
byterian ministers, had visited and preached to the settlers upon the
frontiers (then Southwest Virginia).
It may be thought strange that men situated as were the first set-
tlers of this section would have need or would wish to be instructed
ip. religious matters, as their lives were a constant effort to either kill
their adversaries, the Indians, or to prevent the Indians from
slaughtering themselves and families; but man is a religious being
and cannot divest himself of his religious nature. Herodotus, the
ancient traveler and the father of history, said that "cities with-
out walls could be found and communities without pretence tO' arts,
laws, or even morals, but no tribe or nation could be found without
a religion." The idea of God is intuitive, inherent in the soul of
man. And the first settlers of this section were not only susceptible
to this idea, but as a rule they had been taught in their youth to
honor and love their Creator in all their walks and under all cir-
cumstances.
Prior to the year 1772, two congregations had been organized
in this county, the one at Sinking Spring, the otlier at Ebbing
Spring, and by the summer of 1773 these congregations had grown
until their membership was one hundred and twenty-six persons,
and these congregations extended a call to the Rfev. Charles Cura-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 605
mings, who was then preaching at Brown's Meeting House, in
AngTista county.
This call was presented by Samuel Edmiston at a session of the
Presbytery held at Brown's Meeting House on June 2, 1773.
Mr. Cunimings accepted the call and remO'Ved with his family to
the neighborhood of the Sinking Spring church (Abingdon),
purchased land and settled upon it. Mr. Cummings served the two
congregations until the year 1780, when the Eev. Thomas Brown
Craighead took charge of the Ebbing Spring congi-egation, while
Mr. Cunimings remained in charge of and served the Sinking
Spring congregation faithfully and well until 1812, the date of his
death.
From the time Mr. Cumiiiings commenced preaching at Sinking
Spring up to about the year 1776, the men never went to church
without being armed, and taking their families with them. On
Sabbatli mornings during this period, it was Mr. Cummings' cus-
tom, for he was always a very neat man in his dress, to dress him-
self, then put on his shot-pouch, shoulder his rifle, mount his dun
stallion and ride off to church. There he met his gallant and intel-
ligent congregation, each man with his rifle in his hand. When
seated in the meeting house they presented altogether a most solemn
and singular spectacle. Mr. Cummings' uniform habit, before enter-
ing the house, was to take a short M-alk alone whilst the congregation
were seating themselves ; he would then return, at the door hold a few
words of conversation with some one of the elders of the church,
then would walk gravely through the crowd, mount the steps of the
pulpit, deposit his rifle in a corner near him, lay off his shot pouch
and commence the solemn worship of the day. He would preach
two sermons, having a short interval between them, and go home.
The congregation was very large, and preaching was always well
attended. On sacramental occasions, which were generally about
twice a year, the table was spread in a grove near the church. He
preached for many years, and until far advanced in life, to one of
the largest, most respectable and most intelligent congregations ever
assembled in Western Virginia.*
In the year 1783, the elders of the Sinlving Spring congregation
were: Samuel Newell, Sr., George Finley, Jolm Blackburn, John
Davis, Andrew Willoughby, Sr., William Lowry and James Douglas.
?Governor David Campbell's MSS.
606 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-17^6.
Mr. Cummings was a very zealous Whig and did much to fire the
patriotism of his congregation and the settlers upon the frontiers.
He was the first named on the Committee of Safety for Fincastle
county and to his pen has been generally attributed the resolutions
adopted by the freeholders of Fincastle county on the 20th of Jan-
uary, 1775. He was a member of Hanover Presbytery and assisted
in the preparation of the petition for the abolition of the established
church, which was presented to the General Assembly on the 24th
of October, 1776, and after the organization of Washington county,
in the year 1777, he was chairman of the Committee of Safety for
this county during the Eevolution, and never failed to serve his
country in the cause of liberty when an opportunity afforded.
An idea may be had of his influence and the dependence placed
upon him by our leaders during the darkest days of the Eevolution
from a letter addressed to him. by Colonel Arthur Campbell in June,
1778, upon his return from Richmond:
"Yesterday I returned home, the Assembly having adjourned
until the first Monday in October. The acts passed and a list of
their titles I here enclose, together with an address of Congress
to the people of America, for you to publish agreeably to the resolve.
I wish you could make it convenient to preach at the lower meeting
house in this county, if it was but a week day, as the contents of the
address are of the most interesting nature, both as to the moral and
political conduct of the good people of America. Providence is
daily working out strange deliverances for us. The treaty with
France is much more advantageous than the wisest men of this
country expected. The Indians the other day were unexpectedly
discomfited on Greenbrier. I think the overthrow was something
similar to what happened in this country about two years agO'. I
must give you the intelligence at full length, as the most hardened
mind must see and admire the divine goodness in such an interpo-
sition."
Mr. Cummings was succeeded by the Rev. Stephen Bovel, and an
eye-witness of the place and character of the service at the Sinking
Spring church in the year 1833 says: "The Presbyterians wor-
shipped in a very old log building at 'the Grave- Yard' — weather-
boarded outside and ceiled inside. To this plain, old-fashioned
house would, literally, the gathering of the people be. From the
hills and valleys the worshippers would pour in until an overflowing
Washington County, 1777-1870. 607
house would leave a multitude outside. Ladies and gentlemen, with
their children, would walk there twice a day in summer^s heat and
winter's cold, and listen to one or two discourses before returning to
Abingdon ! They went there for a purpose, and that purpose was to
worship God. The silence of death almost prevailed before preach-
ing. Talking and jesting in the house of God had not then become
a fashionable amusement. They were prayerful, solemn, thought-
ful, serious, and never failed to enjoy the services of the sanctuary
and of the minister. The same writer says : "Dr. Bovel was a minis-
ter of the olden stamp. . We have heard gray-headed members of the
church speak of his teaching them 'the Assembly's Catechism,' when
they were children. Venerable patriarch of the church! We saw
him when far beyond his three score years and ten. With his white
head, tremulous voice and faltering steps, he still moved amongst
the former people of his charge. In extreme age — the activity and
usefulness of his 3'Oung manhood having passed by, and repose and
comfort should have been his — he journeyed far away, and sought a
home, and found his gi'ave in a distant State."*
In the year 1830 Mr. Bovel was succeed'ed by Eev, David E. Pres-
ton, and shortly thereafter this congregation erected a new church
building (now Temperance Hall), and worshipped in this building
until the schism of 1837 divided the church; when one branch of
the church erected a new building on the lot now occupied by the
Presbyterian church at the corner of Main and Slaughter streets.
From the year 1837 until 1865, two congregations of Presbyte-
rians worshipped in the town, one at the Temperance Hall and the
other at the new church, and the feelings between the two con-
gregations were such as to greatly endanger the existence of the
church.
The total membership of both churches in 1865 was one hundred
and twelve members only. The two congregations were united in
1865, through the efforts of the Kevs. Thomas Brown and James
McChain, and since that time the church has greatly prospered,
the membership at the present time being three hundred and thirty.
This church took its name from the Sinking Spring near the
marble yard of James L. Brown, and this church is the parent of
the Meadow View, Cold Spring, Green Spring, Walnut Grove, Maple
Grove, Spring Creek, Bethel and the first Presbyterian church of
Bristol, Tenn.
*Rev. Lewis F. Cosby.
608 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
The pastors serving this chuTch during its history have been :
17,74-1812, Itev. Charles Ciimmings.
1812-1830, Kev. Stephen Bovel.
1830-1835, Rev. David E. Preston.
1835 , Eev. William' Preston, stated supply.
1835-1842, Eev. Stephen Taylor.
1842-1866, Eev. James McChain.
1870-1883, Eev. E. H. Barnett, and in recent years Eevs. P. D.
Stephenson, T. A. Wharton and E. V. Lancaster.
The ruling elders of this church, so far as J can ascertain, in addi-
tion to those previously given, have been : James Vance, James
Davis, Michael Shaver, Alexander White, J. W. C. Watson, Elias
Ogden, Henry Parrot, Archimedes Davis, T. P. Clapp, John F.
Preston, Philip Snapp, Jacob N. Campbell, E. C. Craig, Samuel A.
Preston, D. C. Dunn, E. L. Francisco, Eobert J. Preston, T. D.
Davidson, B. Gildersleeve, John A. Buchanan, E. A. Preston, John
A. Hagy, F. B. Hutton, W. B. Ingham, T. M. Clapp and B. E.
Smith.
Ebbing Spring.
This was one of the first churches to be organized in Washing-
ton county, and its first pastor was the Eev. Charles Cummings, who
served the church until 1780, when he was succeeded by Eev.
Thomas Brown Craighead.
This church was named from the Ebbing Spring, the church
building being on the hill a short distance north of the spring. This
spring is now on the farm owned by David Stump, on the Middle
Fork of Holston river, in the upper end of this county, and in its
normal condition it is a beautiful stream flowing from among lime-
stone rocks. Before the water begins to flow there is a gurgling
sound, and then the stream gushes out with a rapid current, filling
the channel. The ebb begins gradually, and in less than half an
hour the spring is as limpid and quiet as before the disturbance.*
This was the place of worship of General William Campbell and
the families east as far as the licad of Holston, and the number of
the worshippers at this church was exceeded by that of the Sinking
Spring only.
In the year 1792, it was decided to remove the church building
from the Ebbing Spring to the Old Glade Spring. With the re-
*Thomas'L. Preston.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 609
inoval of the church from Ebbing Spring the name was changed
to Glade Spring. The new church was erected upon property given
by Francis Kincannon and deeded, by the direction of Kincannon,
by John Eobinsou on the 15th of February, 1814, to Eobert Buch-
anan, Joseph Snodgrass, David Beattie, Jolm Porterfield, Thomas
Edmiston, William Beattie, James Scott, Samuel Edmiston, Leon-
ard Hutton and William Eakin, jnembers of the Presbyterian con-
gregation of Glade Spring. The families constituting this congre-
gation in the early days were among the most patriotic citizens to
be found anywhere within the colonies; th'ey were respectable and
progressive, and their descendants at this time practice the same
ideas that rendered their ancestors distinguished. The pastors
serving the Ebbing Spring congregation have been :
1774-1780— Rev. Charles Cummings.
1780-1790— Eev. Thomas Brown Craighead.
1790-1816— Eev. Edward Crawford.
1816-1831— Eev. Alexander McEwen.
1835 —Eev. Philip Wood.
1843-1844— Eev. Eobert C. Graham.
1844-1848— Eev. A. G. Taylor.
1848 —Eev. Eobert Glenn.
1848-1852— Eev. Levi E. Morrison.
1852-1856— Eev. D. F. Palmer.
1856-1859— Eev. Henry Smith.
1859-1862— Eev. J. J. McMahon.
1863-1866— Eev. E. L. McMurrin,
and since 1866, the Eevs. Henry M. White, J. 0. Sullivan, Frank
McCutchen, P. H. Guinn, and J. E. Herndon.
The ruling elders of this church, so far as I have been able to
ascertain, have been : Mitchell Eobinson, David Beattie, John
Eakin, Peter Clark, John S. Clark, Arthur Hutton, John Eobinson,
Philip B. Snapp, J. C. Porterfield, Isaac M. Benham, W. B. Dick-
enson, James A. Buchanan, A. D. Hutton, A. H. Byars, George A.
C. Beattie, M. W. Eobinson, E. B. Clark, T. 'hk Porterfield, A. M.
Byars, and J. D. Kent.
This church Ms experienced a very rapid growth in recent years,
and at the present time five churches and chapels are within the
bounds of the Glade Spring church, viz. : Old Glade Spring church.
610 Southwest Virginia, i 7^6-1 7^^.
Glade Spring church, Seven Springs, Ebbing Spring Chapel, and
the membership of the church is considerable.
The location of the church erected in 1792 was near a fine
spring and there was a long glade free from timber looking south-
east from the location of the church, and it was from this circum-
stance that the church took the name of Glade Spring in the year
1792.
When the building of Emory and Henry College was proposed, a
meeting was held for the purpose of soliciting subscriptions at th'e
Old Glade Spring church and the members of this congregation con-
tributed the greater portion of a $5,000 subscription to the enter-
prise, and Colonel William Byars, Alexander Eobinson, Madison
Beattie, Absalom Beattie, W. B. Edmondson, W. C. Edmondson
and J. M. Byars, active members of this church, have given their
influence, money and labor to the upbuilding of Emory and Henry
College since the inception of the enterprise.
There is not a community in Washington county that excels that
of Glade Spring in intelligence, patriotism and worth, and this fact
is in great part due to the influence of this church.
Roch Spring Church.
The Rock Spring church, by far the oldest church organization
in that section of the county, was organized just after the Revolu-
tion, in the year 1784.
The land upon which this church stands was deeded to the con-
gregation, March 15th, 1820; fifty-five poles by Robert Edmond-
son, twenty poles by Matthew Brown.
No sessional records appear to have been kept until 1843, but
the membership was large and somewhat scattered. In 1880, sixty-
three of its members were organized into a separate church, known
as Bethel, near Osceola.
The total membership of Rock Spring church from 1843 to 1902
is estimated at something over 500. Its present membership is
over seventy.
Many of the signers of the original call to Rev. Charles Cum-
mings lived within the bounds of Rock Spring church, and some
of their descendants still occupy the old homesteads of their an-
cestors.
The church has occupied three separate buildings; the second
Washington County, 1717-1870. 611
was remove*] in 1884. and the present large and IVeautifid building-
erected near the old site.
The names of those who ministered to the people of IJock Spring
church prior to 18-13 arc (so far as can be learned) Crawford, Bevel,
Glenn and McEwen, of tlie Presbyterian clmrch, an.d Harper, Mc-
La\\s, Scott, Patrick' and Tliompson, of the Eeformed Presbyterian
church. About 1825, ]\fcEwen, who was then stated supply, and
who appears to have l)een an al)le and popular minister, was de-
posed from the ministry on the charge of immorality. The contro-
versy over his trial was bitter and" protracted, and checked the
i:in\\ til of the church for several years.
h\ the great controversy of 1837 over church representation, out
?of which grew the Old and Ncir Scliooh. Pock Spring sided with
the former.
Down to 1843 the church had no regular pastor. In that year
the Eev. P. (J. Graham was called and installed.
At that time Samuel Moore, Andrew Edmoiidson, and Eobert
E. Lowry were elders. Their first meeting under the new pastor
was on December 10, 1843. Erom that meeting records of the pro-
ceedings of the session were kept: the memborship at that time was
ninety.
Mr. Graham's pastorate appears to have ended in 1847. It re-
sulted in a largely increased membership. From 1847 to 1866 the
church had no pastoi'. The stated supplies during that time were
Hodge, Stickley, Eeece, Wilson and Hogshead. The last, in the
year 1866, was installed pastor, and continued as such until the
year 1871.
He was succeeded by Eev. J. C. Carson, as stated supply, who
continued in charge until the autumn of 1875, when Eev. J. 0.
Sullivan l)ecame pastor. His pastorate ceased in the year 1881,
when he l)ecame president of Stonewall Jackson Institute.
The present clmrch building, one of the most commodio'us in the
Presbytery, was erected in the year 1884, at a cost ot about $3,000.
The next pastor was the Eev. Frank McCutchen. He remained
until 1893, when he accepted a call to Eogersville, Tenn. Eev. J.
B. Hutton, Eev. S. E. Preston and the Eev. j\Ir. Yisor were stated
supplies until October, 1896, when Eev. J. B. Morton became pastor.
He resigned in 1901 because of disaffection in the congregation.
G12 Southtvest Virginia, 1746-1786.
The present pastor (not yei installed) is Eev. Allen Jones, an able
and most energetic man.
Maple Grove Church.
The first Presb3'terian preacher to conduct regular services in
this community was the Eev. Stephen Bovel, and, as a result of his
eiforts, a log-house was built upon the location of the present
church in 1831. A partial organization of the church was ef-
fected about the same time, but all records pertaining thereto have
been lost, and the first regular session of this church of which we
have any record was organized in the year 1836, with the following
elders present: John Gray, John Davis, John Anderson, Wallace
Maxwell, Peter S. Hanby and A. C. Maxwell.
The first regularly installed pastor of this church was the Eev.
John H. Wallace.
In th'e year 1874, the log church erected in 1831 was torn down,
and a handsome country church erected in its place. The church
has been served by the following pastors, so far as I can ascertain:
Eevs. Stephen Bovel, James McChain, John H. Wallace, Henry
Eose, J. P. Briscoe, John L. Allison, W. T. Mobray, J. B. Morton,
G. W. Henderlite and E. B. Hudson.
Spring Creeh Church.
This church was organized in the year 1852, with John F. Pres-
ton and Archimedes Davis as ruling elders, and the following mem-
bers: Archimedes Davis, John F. Preston, Mrs. Kancy Preston,
Mrs. Margaret L. Fulkerson, Mrs. Mary Bradley, Misses Mar-
garet J. Willoughby, Caroline Willoughby, Elizabeth Eush, Mary
J. Legard, Andrew Willoughby, Jeremiah Eush, Sr. and James
Eush.
Soon after the organization of the church, Andrew Willoughby
was installed an elder, and within recent years Henry B. Eoberts,
J. G. E. Davis and others have served in the same capacity.
The land upon which this church stands was given by John F.
Preston. A very commodious frame building was erected thereon
in the year 1852 and remained until 1886, when the old building
was torn down and a handsome frame building erected in its stead.
The pastors that have served this church have been the same that
served the Maple Grove church.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 613
Upon this church property stood an old log-house in which the
writer attended the public schools, and in the church building he
was taught the Shorter Catechism by H. B. Eoberts and a faithful
corps of noble women.
Walnut Gi'ove Cliurcli.
This church was organized at an early day and has been of great
usefulness; but, I am sorry to say that, notwithstanding very per-
sistent efforts, I have been unable to obtain any information in re-
gard to its liistory.
Green Spring Church.
This church was established in the year 1794, and the first build-
ing M^as erected upon a tract of land conveyed to the members of
the Green Spring congregation and their successors, they calling a
regular Presbyterian minister of the gospel, adhering to tlie West-
minster Confession of Faith and the doctrine and discipline therein
contained, with the Larger and Shorter Catechism, James Mont-
gomery.
This church is situated in the strongest Presbyterian community
in Washington county, ])ossibly in Southwest Virginia, and has had
a very useful career : Init I must express my regret at being unable
to obtain any information in regard thereto.
x\ll that has been said in regard to the Glade Spring community
will apply to this, the peer of the Glade Spring commimity.
The Kings, McConnells, Berrys, McChesneys, Coxes, Kellers,
]\rcCauleys, Grays, Thomases, Lowrys, Parks, Avens, Mimmicks
and Campbells constitute a large part of this congregation.
METHODISM IN WASHHSTGTOF COUNTY.
]\Iethodism made its appearance in Washington county, Vir-
ginia, by emigration, somewhere between 1770 and 17,75. The
first circuit, in what is now Holston Conference, appeared in the
minutes of 1783 entitled "Holston Circuit," with sixty members,
and Jeremiah Lambert was appointed in charge of it. This cir-
cuit embraced the scattered Methodists in Southwestern Virginia
and upper East Tennessee. In 1784, Lambert reported seventy-six
members, a gain of sixteen.
Bishop Asbury held the first conference west of the Alleghanies,
at Stephen Keywood's, Washington county, Virginia, May, 1788.
614 Southwest Virginia. IIJ^G-IISG.
Ke3'\voo(l lived ahnut uiiihvny Ix'twcon Saltvillc and wliat is now
Glade Spring depot. He li^?(?(l in a two-story log-house with a mas-
sive stone chimney at one end. The conference met in an upper
room without fire, and sat three days. Keligious exercises were
kept up daily, M'ith fine results. .John Timnell, Thomas Ware and
others had preaching at Koywood's every day for a week before
the session of the conference began, and on Sunday before the con-
ference John Tunnell preached in the morning. Under this ser-
mon Madam Elizabeth Russell, wife of General William Russell,
of Revolutionary fame, and sister to Patrick Henry, was convinced
that she was the veriest sinnei' on earth, although up to that period,
as a member of the Episco])al church, she had been exemplary in
life and thought she was a child of Tiod. She invited the preach-
ers home with hei' to pray for and instriK't her. They complied,
and in the afternoon she emerged from darkness into light, prais-
ing God with a loud voice. This good — yea, great — woman became a
flame of Christian zeal, and to the day of her death, which occurred
in 1825, she served God and her generation with a zeal not sur-
passed in ancient or modern times. Mrs. Russell's first husband
was Genei'al William Gam|)bell, of King's mountain celebrity. Her
'daughter. Miss Sarah V>. Campbell, married General Francis Pres-
ton. Among the children of General Preston may be mentioned
the Hons. William C. Preston and John S. Preston, of South Caro-
lina, Thomas L. Preston, and Mrs. John B. Floyd, the last a life-
long j\rothodist.
Up to 1812, Washington county was generally included in Hol-
ston Circuit ; but in that year Abingdon Circuit appears in the
minutes. This circuit embraced Washing-ton county and some ad-
jacent territory in Yii-ginia and Tennessee. Baker Wrather was
the first ai^pointee to Abingdon Circuit. This circuit was a part
of Tennessee Conference until 1824, when Holston Conference was
organized. Abingdon station was established in 1826, with the
Rev. George Atkins as its first pastor.
At \\hat date the first IMethodist church in Abingdon was built
1 am unaljle 1o stale. In 18-19, the old Abingdon church was torn
down and su])])lanted l)y a neat Iirick cha])el where tlie old IMetho-
dist graveyard is. This chapel afterwards gave place to the pres-
ent church on ]\Iain street. The Findlays, Litchfields, Mitchells,
Floyds, Campbells, Hoofnagles, Honakers, Hamiltons and Bans
Washington County, 1777-1870. fjlo
liave been among tlie most prominent >retho(list families of Al)ing-
don.
John Baker, toiir iriiles west of Abingdon, was a wealthy j\letho-
dist, and was for luany years a liberal supporter of the church.
Jolm ^\'. I'rice, near Glade Spring, \ras a wealthy farmer and an
active church worker, often exhorting and holding protracted meet-
ings, resulting in great revivals in his cojnmunity.
Lebanon camp-ground, some six miles east of Abingdon, w^as
established at an early day. and for a number of years was one of
the most po])ular camp-gTounds in the connection. Methodists
fi-om Abingdon and other parts of the county camped there, and
many of the first preachers of the connection preached from its pul-
pit.
In 1835, Holston Conference projected a scheme for an agricul-
tural college. The Eev. Creed Fulton, agent, and also member
of the committee to locate the school, raised a subscription and
called the committee together. The present site of Emory and
Henry College was chosen, and the erection of buildings was begun
at once. In 1838, the school was inaugurated under the presidency
of Charles Collins, of Maine, a graduate of the Middieton (Conn.)
A\'esleyan University. He was a well-rounded man, and under liis
wise administration the college prospered; but the school reached
its zenitli afterwarils under th" ndmini'^tration of President E. E.
Wiley.
^fartha Washington College was projected in 1858. The confer-
ence accepted from the Odd-Fellows a site and unfinished build-
ings in the northern suburb of Abingdon, but abandoned the site
afterwards, and bought the Preston propei-t}', the present site.
This college has had a very useful career.
Some years afterwards the Methodists of Bristol built and es-
tablished Sullins College there, with Dr. David Sullins as presi-
dent. This school has been a successful competitor of Martha
Washington College in the cause of female education.
Methodism has always been strong in Washington county, of an
evangelical type, and a powei'ful factor in educating and refining
the people and creating a good quality of citizenship. Long will
the memory of such people as Father Wilkenson, Father HaskeM',
Dr. George Barr, "Aunt Bettie HaskewV "Aunt Kittle" Findlav.
616 Southiuest Virginia, 17J/G-17S6.
aud otH'ers like them, linger among onr healthful hills as a sweet
perfume.
I should have mentioned particularly the Methodist Protestant
church. This denomination was organized in 1830. It was at
first made up of members and preachers who formerly represented
the Annual and General Conferences, and, being opposed to an
episcopal form of government, seceded from the M. E. Church,
and set up a church more democratic in polity. The Rev. Mr.
Cosby and Dr. George R. Barr were the principal pioneers of this
cliurch in Alnngdon. A nice brick church was built, and regular
preaching kept up for many years. Dr. Barr was many years its
pastor, and a revered and venerable name. The church had some
influence at other points in this county, but made little headway
against its older and more thoroughly established rival.*
The members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in about the
year 1845, disagreed upon the question of slavery, and divided
their church property, and since that time there have been two
branches of the same church in this county, to-wit: The Methodist
Episcopal Church and the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
The Methodist Episcopal Church has exjjerienced a very rapid
growth in Washington county since 1865, and to-day has thirteen
churches and a large number of communicants in this county, while
the Methodist Episcopal Church South has churches and com-
municants in nearly every community in the county.
ABINGDON, VIRGINIA— ITS HISTORY.
The present location of Abingdon was immediately upon the
Indian trail from the south and the Indian trail from the north-
west, Avhich, jjassing through Cumberland Gap, crossed the south-
ern trail at about the present location of Hurt's store, in the town
of Abingdon, in the direction of North Carolina.
When Dr. Thomas Walker and his company of explorers visited
Southwestern Virginia in the years 1749-1750, they followed this
Indian trail, and on July 14, 1752, King George II. of England
granted to Dr. Thomas Walker a large body of land surrounding
and including the site of the town of Abingdon and supposed to
contain 6,780 acres.
*Rev. R. N. Price.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
617
This is the first record that we have of the early exploration of
the lands upon which the town of Abingdon has been built.
Dr. Walker made no immediate effort to settle the lands secured
by his grant, and the next mention that we have of this locality
was in the year 1760, in which year Daniel Boone and Nathaniel
Gist left the home of Boone, in North Carolina, and, crossing the
Holston mountains, encamped in M'hat is now known as Taylor's
Valley, from which point they passed down the Holston river to
near Glenn's Mill, and thence to the present location of Abingdon,
\\'here they encamped on the second night, near where Black's
Abingdon, Virginia, 1835.
Fort was afterwards built at a spring. Boone and Gist were upon
a hunting expedition at the time and were accompanied by their
dogs. Soon after nightfall, the hunters were greatly disturbed by
the appearance of a large number of wolves. Th'eir dogs were as-
sailed with such fury that Boone and Gist with great difficulty
succeeded in repelling the attack of the wolves and preserving their
lives, several of their best dogs being killed. From this circum-
stance the present location of Abingdon received its first name,
"Wolf Hills." The wolves had their home in the cave that under-
lies the town of Abingdon, the entrance to which is upon the lot
now occupied as a residence by Captain James L. White.
The creek that passes through the eastern and southern portions
of the town about this time received the name of Castfe's Creek,
618 Southwest Virginia, nJtf6-ll!86.
Abin.o-flon. Virginia. 1902. Looking- East from Fruit Hill.
Al)ingdon, Virginia, 1!)02. Looking South from Fruit Hill.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 619
which name, about fifteen years afterwards, was changed to Eigh-
teen ]\Iile C*reek, and the creek west of Abingdon was given the
name of Wolf Hill Ci-eek, which names are retained iintil this time.
Some time between the years ITGo and 1T?(), James Douglas,
Andrew ("olvill, George Blackburn, Joseph Black, Samuel Briggs,-
James ri])er and sevei'al othei' persons settled upon lands sur-
rounding and including the present location of Abingdon, under
])urchases from Dr. Tbonias Walker, which lands were afterwards
conxcyed to the sett lei s in the year ITT -I.
V>\ this time. 1TT4, the imnu'diate \icinity of the ])resent loca-
tion of Abingdon was settled by large numbers of jx^ople, and dur-
ing this year a church was built near the entrance gate of the pres-
ent cemetery, west of the town of Abingdon, under the directi-on
of the Eev. Charles Cummings and undei- tlu' auspices of the Pres-
liyterian Church.
The early settlers of this section of Mrginia at this early date
recognized the importance of this locality, and as the natural in-
stinct of the Indian had made this the passing point of two great
Indian trails, so the same instinct of the white man caused him to
recognize this as a central location for his operations.
C^aptain Joseph Black, Avho settled on Eighteen ]\Iile Creek
nearly south of the present residence of Colonel Arthur Cummings,
with the assistance of his neighbors, erected a small fort near his
residence for the protection of the neighborhood froin attacks
by the Indians, which fort was called "Black's rf)rt." and this fort
was used until the summer of 177G.
In the s]iring of this ycar^ 1TT(). the Cberokee Indians, after
twelve years of c(mii)arative ]ieace and fi'iendliness, decided to wage
a war against the whites, and to exterminate or drive them from
the waters of the Ilolston and Clinch rivers; and in the month of
July news came to the settlement, which extend'ed down as far as
Eaton's Fort, seven miles east of Long Island of Holston, that
Dragging Canoe, a noted Indian chief, at the head of seven him-
dred Indian warriors, was marching upon the settlements, which
news created great consternation, and every settler, with but few
exceptions, gathered his family and traveled with all speed for the
older settlements.
There was but one public highway passing through this sec-
620 Southivest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
tion at that time, which was known as the Great road and passed
directly by Black's Fort.
By the 20th of July, 1776, fully four hundred men, women and
children, had assembled at Black's Fort, and, at the suggestion of
their leaders, determined to l^iiild a substantial fort and contest
the further progress of the Indian invasion.
While the building of tliis fort was in progress, the battle of
Tjong Island Flats was fought and resulted in an overwhelming
victory for the settlers. The news of this battle reached Black's
Fort on the following day.
Upon the receipt of this good news, the Eev. Charles Cummings
had all work upon the fort suspended, assembled the multitude,
and, kneeling in prayer, thanked God for the deliverance of the
people.
The work upon the fort was continued until completed and, when
completed, it was one of the best forts upon the frontiers.
During the week following the battle of Long Island Flats the
settlers at Black's Fort were greatly annoyed by small bands of In-
dians traveling thfough the settlements, killing the settlers indis-
criminately, burning their homes and driving off their property.
Three parties of Indians came within the vicinity of Black's
Fort. One party scalped Arthur Blackburn and left him for dead,
another succeeded in killing and scalping Jacob Mongle, and a
third party assailed the Eev. Charles Cummings, his negro ser-
vant. Job, William Creswell and James Piper, and succeeded in
killing William Creswell and crippling James Piper by shooting
off one of his fingers.
After the battle at Long Island Flats, the settlers were greatly
encouraged, and, at the same time, felt very much outraged at the
depredations of their Indian neighbors, and a portion of the set-
tlers at Black's Fort, with the assistance of a few men from Bryan's
Fort, succeeded in killing and scalping eleven out of a party of In-
dians that visil^ed the home of James Montgomery, near the South
Fork of Holston river, about eight miles south of Abingdon. The
scalps of the eleven Indians were brought to Black's Fort and
tied to the end of the longest pole that could be found in the vi-
cinity, and this pole was planted at the gate of the fort as a warn-
ing, we suppose, to future invaders tliat they would meet a like
fate.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 631
The county of Wasliington was established by an Act of the
Assembly of Virginia in the fall of the year 17 70, and by tlie
provisions of that Act Black's Fort was designated as the first place
of meeting of the Connty Court, of the new county. The time of
the meeting was fixed as January 28, 1777.
Tradition says there was a great contest between the citizens of
this county as to the location of the county seat, a portion of the
citizens advocating the present location- of the Presbyterian church
at Green Spring as the proper location for the county seat.
But several im|X)rtant inducements decided the contest in favor
of Black's Fort; to-wit: first, the fact that Black's Fort was directly
upon the line' of the Great road passing through this section, and,
secondly^ laecause Dr. Thomas Walker, Joseph Black and Samuel
Briggs^greed to give to the county of Washington one hundred and
twenty acres of land for the purpose of locating the town and
assisting in discharging the cost of the erection of the necessary
public buildings, and, in addition. Dr. Walker agreed to deed to
the trustees of the town of Abingdon, for a nominal consideration,
four hundred and eighty-four acres of land adjoining the one hun-
dred and twenty above spoken of.
It cannot be doubted that the selection was a wise one, especially
in view of the mutilation of the territory of Washington county
as originally formed, by the formation of new comities by the Gen-
eral Assembly of Virginia, and the encroachments upon Virginia
territory by the State of Tennessee. The county seat was as nearly
centrally located as possible.
The four hundred and eighty-four acre tract of land which Dr.
Walker agreed to sell to the trustees of the town of Abingdon for
a nominal consideration was conveyed to said trustees by Daniel
Smith, attorney in fact for Dr. Walker, on October 7, 1781.
The power of attorney from Dr. Walker constituting Daniel
Smith his attorney in fact to convey said lands was executed Sep-
tember 9, 1777 and was witnessed by Thomas Jefferson, Eeuben
Lindsay and George Dives.
Shortly after the organization of the County Court of Washing-
ton county, Virginia, to-wit: on April 29, 1777, the County Court
entered an order appointing -•
622 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-178G.
Arthur Canipbell, \\'illiaiu Campbell,
Daniel Smith, Joseph Martin,
William Edmiston. John Conlter,
Eobert Craig,
trustees to dispose of the lands given to the county by Walker, Black
and Briggs,
It will be observed that the })resent location of Abingdon, at the
time in (pu'stion, was without a nauie. and. as far as I can ascertain,
it (lid not ceceive the name of Abingdon until the summer of this
year. /
The one hundred and twen'ty acres of land given to the county by
Walker, Black and Briggs were surveyed by Captain Robert Doach,
and, immediately after the appointment of the trustees above
named, they directed John Coulter to survey and lay out the main
street of the town of Abingdon, which was accordingly done.
The County C'ourt, on the 2rth day of August, 1,777, directed
James Dysart, the sheriff of Washington county, to employ some
person or persons, upon the best terms he could, to remove to some
convenient place, where the town was to stand, the logs and other
timber whieli had been placed at Mr. Black's for the purpovse of
building a magazine, to. be used in l)uilding a courthouse. The
sheriff, pursuant to this order, selected the present location of the
yard of Mrs. James W. Preston as a convenient place for the same,
and let the contract for the building to Samuel Evans.
The County Court, at the same time, directed tlie sheriff' of the
county to build a ]n-ison fourteen feet square, with square timbers,
twelve inches each way, and with a good shingle roof, and in lieu
of a stone wall to line the side walls and also the under floor with
two-inch plank, and to put in each plank nine iron spikes six inches
long; and the sheriff', pursuant to directions, let the contract for
the building of the prison to Al)raham Goodpasture.
At the time of the building of the courthouse, the County Court
of Washington county had erected what was known as stocks, just
west of the courthouse and on J\Iain street.
These consisted of a jjlatform some five or six feet above the
ground, with a centrejiiece aljout seven feet above the platform.
To this were attached movable boards, one at the foot of the plat-
form and another about four feet abo\e the first. In these boards
Washinc/ton County, 1777-J870.
623
were holes, through wliich the head, liands and feet of the cul-
prit were thrust."*
It is said that one application of this mode of punishment made
a lasting impression upon offenders.
To George Martin was given the contract for making irons for
criminals, and to Hugh Berry that of making nails to he used in
the erection of the courthouse and prison.
The courthouse and prison were not completed until the 3^ear
ITiB, at which time the County (*ourt directed David Carson and
Joseph Black to lay off the prison hounds, and on tlie 17th day of
.June, 1779, David Carson and Josepli Black, affer laying ot! the
])rison hounds, made the following report:
Pursuant to an order of court, we the suliscribers have laid off the
Prison Bounds, as in the annexed Piatt.
/ ^ \
%
Spring
AREA
A. R. P.
8. 3. 2.
/
Z-^'
"S
^
\i/
Witness our hands this 17th June, 1779.
DAVID CARSON,
JOSEPH BLACK.
Beginning at the X. W. corner of the gaol at a stump S. 35° E.
4U poles, crossing the road at 3 forked wliite oak saplings ; thence IST.
63° E. 35 poles crossing a creek at the old fording at a large white
*Thomas L. Preston.
624 Southwest Virginia, 17 J/6-1786.
oak tree by the north side of the road; thence N. 32° W. 30 poles
crossing said creek JST. E. of head of a spring at a white oak stake
and an old black stump ; and thence to a white oak sapling on a N. E.
stony bank on Mr. Willoughby's lot; thence S. 62° W. 36 poles to
the north end of the prison house at the beginning.
DAVID CAESON.
Eroni this report it will be observed that numbers of white oak
saplings were standing within the present limits of the town of
Abingdon as late as the summer of 1779.
It is hardly necessary to be said at this point that the prison
bounds thus laid out were used, until the year 1850, as a place of
confinement for delinquent debtors, and it would be a matter of
great surprise, could the present generation read the names of the
prominent citizens of this county who were confined within these
prison bounds because of the non-paA'ment of their debts.
As soon as the Main street of the town was located and the lots
on the north and south sides of said street surveyed, the trustees of
the town proceeded to sell and dispose of said lots ; but, finding some
difficulty in disposing of said lots by reason of some uncertainty
in their title to said property, eleven members of the County Court
in the fall of the year 1777 addressed the following petition to the
General Assembly of Virginia :
To the Honorable, the Speaker and Gentlemen of the House of
Delegates :
The petition of the court of Washington county.
Whereas a certain tract or parcel of land is given by the Honor-
able Thomas Walker, Joseph Black and Samuel Briggs, and also
another tract of land is agreed to be sold at a certain rate by the
said Walker for the benefit of the aforesaid county to erect their
public buildings on, and as this court has already fixed upon a
place on said land for their courthouse and prison, and has also laid
off a part thereof for a town, and whereas it is apprehended that it
would mtich conduce to the speedy settling of the aforesaid town
and advance the value of the lots if an Act of Assembly should pass,
enabling the said court or their trustees to receive titles from the
above-named gentlemen for the land given and sold, and also to
enable them to lay off, sell and make conveyances to the purchasers.
Washington Co'unty, 1777-1870. 635
and grant such privileges and iniiuunities to the settlers on such
lots, as to citizens in like cases have been granted, in the premises
we submit to the consideration of your honorable House, and pray
you to grant us such redress as you judge just and right, and your
j)etitioners, as in duty bound, shall pray, etc. :
George Blackburn, Andrew Colvill,
John Kinkhead, William Campbell,
William Edmiston, John Snoddy,
James Montgomery, Daniel >Smith,
John Campbell, Thomas Mastin,
Arthur Campbell.
This petition was referred to the proper committee on November
8, 1777, but was not again heard of until the fall of the year 1778.
Washington county's representatives in the Legislature at this
time were William Cocke and Anthony Bledsoe, neither of whom
had any particular interest in the welfare of the proposed town.
But in the spring of the year 1778, Arthur Campbell and Anthony
Bledsoe were elected to the Legislature of Virginia from Washing-
ton county, and, as a result of the efforts of Arthur Campbell, the
town was incorporated in December, 1778.
For some reason which I cannot explain, the trustees appointed
by the County Court of Washington county, Virginia, on April 29,
1777, with but two exceptions, never acted in the capacity of trus-
tees, William Edmiston and Eobert Craig being the exceptions,
but on the 6th of June, 1777, William Edmiston, Eobert Craig,
James Armstrong, Eobert Preston and Eobert Campbell, terming
themselves trustees for the town of Abingdon, met at Christopher
Acklin's, in said town, and proceeded to business and surveyed
a part of said town, namely the inner lots; after which the board
adjourned until the next day, the 7th of June, 1777, on which day
the trustees ordered an alley to be laid off, one pole wide, adjoining
the lower end of the lots on the south side of Main street; and
that a street be laid off, three poles wide, ten poles from said alley,
and that the land between the alley and said street be laid off in
half acre lots, and that the land on the south side of said street
be laid off in acre lots, and that said street be known by the name
of Water street; and to the alley between Water and Main streets
was given the name of Troopers' alley.
626 Southwest Virginia, 1746-J78G.
liobert Preston was (lirc'ctcd to sui'vcy said lots a.nd to deliver Jl
draft of the same lo C'hi'istopher Aekliu, who was directed to sell
said lots at public oiitci-y at the following June court, which lots
were accordingly disposed of by Cbristopher Aekliu at j)ul)lic
auction.
There seems to be a difference of opinion as to the first settler
within the bounds of Abingdon. Charles B. Coale makes the state-
ment that the first house erected in the town was b}' Dr. Smith,
who built his house about the year 1760, on the lot now occupied by
Mrs. Henry S. Preston.
The statement of J\lr. Coale is evidently a mistake, as this por-
tion of Virginia was not settled in the year 1T60.
There can be no cpiestion that Cbristopher Acklin, as early as
June, 1777, had a house built and was living upon the lot now occu-
pied by the county courthouse.
As previously stated, in the month of October, 1778, the town of
Abingdon was established by Act of the Assembly, and Evan
Shelby, William Campbell, Daniel Smith, William Edmiston, Eob-
ert Craig and Andrew Willoughby were named as trustees for said
town, and the title to the one hundred and twenty acres of land
given by Dr. Walker and others was vested in fee simple in said
trustees by said Act,* and said trustees or any three of them were
empowered to make conveyances of such lots in said town as had
been previously sold and of such as might be sold thereafter.
Considerable power was conferred upon said Board of Trustees,
as will be seen by an inspection of the Act establishing the town.
The name given to the town was evidently suggested by Colonel
Arthur Campbell, through whose influence the Act incorporating the
town was passed.
Whire the object in view in giving the name, Abingdon, to the
town is not known, several statements in regard thereto have been
made by different Avriters upon the sul)ject, one statement being
that the town was given the name of Abingdon as a compliment
to Martha Washington, the wife of General Washington, it being
the name of the parish in whicli she worshipped in girlhoodf ;
*No deed having passed between Walker, Briggs and Black and said
trustees.
tAbingdon was the name of the eountry seat of Mrs. Martha Custis be-
fore her marriage to General ^^'ashingtnn. and was but a few miles from
Mt. Vernon.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 627
another statement being that the town was named in honor of Lord
Abingdon, a young English nobleman of Scotch descent, with whom
William Campbell was well acquainted. Lord Abingdon being very
much in sympathy with the ideas of his Scotch kinsfolk living in
America, in their contest with England.
Daniel Boone, at this time, was known as the greatest explorer
and hunter on the frontiers, and the name may have originated
with him. Abingdon, Pennsylvania, situated about twelve miles
north of Philadelphia, was his first residence in America, and, for
many years, was the home of many of his family.
The lands deeded to the trustees of tlie town of Abingdon
included four hundred and eighty-four acres in addition to the
one hundred and twenty acres given by Dr. Walker and others and
vested in said trustees by Act of the Assembly. These four hundred
and eighty-four acres lay north and northeast of the town of
Abingdon of the present day ; and while Main and Water streets
were laid off previously to 1778, and lots on either side of said
streets surveyed, the lands included within the four hundred and
eighty-four acre survey were not surveyed until August, 1781,
during which month Daniel Smith surveyed and divided said four
hundred and eighty-fonr acres into nineteen tracts containing from
thirteen to fifty-six acres to the lot, which tracts of land were
d'enominated the outer lots of said town.
"The lands on which the town is built were given to the county
of Washington by Dr. Thomas Walker, of Albemarle county, and
by Samuel Brigg-s, who owned the tract adjoining to the east, and
Joseph Black, who owned the one to the west of the town. I first
saw the town hill in 1782, and then there were on it a log court-
house about twenty-five feet square, standing opposite Dunn's Hotel
across the street — a small log jail on the lower corner of the present
public lot; Christopher Acklifi.'s Tavern on the southeast corner of
the public square ; John Yancey's Tavern, on the lot where Dunn's
Hotel stands; and William Dryden's Tavern on the lot where Mr.
Mitchell's dwelling stands, that formed the then town of Abingdon.
In 1782, Yancey sold his house and lot to John Campbell, and
shortly afterwards Dryden sold his to Dr. Alexander Smith, the
first husband of Mrs. Conn."
Acklin and Smith now entertained all who called on them, Acklin
those who were fond of their brandy. Smith the more temperate.
628 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Two Irishmen, named Dan and Manasas Friel, at this time
appeared with a cargo of merchandise and opened their goods in a
I'oom in John Campbell's dwelling house. Tliey tOon built a store-
house across the street and, for ten or twelve years from 1783,
sold goods and made a handsome property. They then removed to
Wythe, and Manasas to a valuable farm near Fort Chiswell. About
the time they had located themselves in their new storehouse, Wil-
liam Bagnell and Mrs. Bagnell came to the town and built a large
cabin on the lot east of Dunn's Hotel. This couple were from
Baltimore and merit special notice.
William Bagnell was a dwarf about foui^ feet, nine iiiches, high,
and diminutive in form. ^Irs. Bagnell was just the opposite in
every respect — a large, athletic woman of good figure, rather hand-
some than otherwise, and intelligent. They appeared tO' be about
thirty years of age. Bagnell's Tavern soon attracted attention and
commanded company. Mrs. Bagnell had been evidently well
accustomed to the noise and confusion of a drinl^ing establishment,
and acted in her cabin with good authority. She was often visited
by an old man and two sons from the foot of Iron mountain, who
never left without having a drunken frolic. On one occasion they
continued their bacchanalian riot imtil late in the night and until
Mrs. Bagnell was fairly wotu down with it and refused to let them
have any more whiskey. They begged and pled and threatened, but
her ladyship was firm to her purpose and would not yield. They
then commenced beating her and running her around the cabin,
they pursuing and she retreating and defending herself. At length
she was able to escape up a ladder to the loft, and there she shouted
murder with all her strength. The town was roused and all came
to her relief and to^ hear what was the matter. The three bacchana-
lians retreated into the street and bade defiance, and Mrs. Bagnell
complained of being much hurt. The sheriff made his appearance
and was ordered by a justice to arrest the men. He summoned a
posse, and for a short time there was a general engagement; at
length the men were taken and committed to jail. In the melee
several persons were seriously injured, but the prosecutions failed.
Henry Dickenson came to town to live and built on the corner lot
on which William King's old brick house stands. Near the same
time Captain William Y. Conn arrived from Alexandria with a
cargo of merchandise, built a storehouse across the street from
Washington County, 1777-1870. 639
Dunn's Hotel and opened goods. Alexander Smith died and Mrs.
Smith, then a beautiful young widow, continued the house, which
was always crowded with the best company. John Greenway came
from Pennsylvania, purchased out Henry Dickenson and built his
blacksmith shop on the corner.* All this time the society of two or
three genteel families and the constant intercourse of well-informed
strangers made Abingdon a most agreeable place.
Although the country was settled with a well-informed population,
generally, yet there was in it a mixture of all sorts. The leading
characters of one class were Edward Callahan and his wife Succy.
Where they originally came from I do not know, but they were
themselves originals. Edward was a hunter by profession, and
when they emigrated to Holston he selected for his residence the
banks of the north fork twenty-five miles below Abingdon, at a point
where he could see the top of Clinch mountain through a gap
in the river knobs. Here he lived many years. Succy was a cake
woman, but with the cakes she sold something to drink. She made
her appearance on the first day of every court, with a cartload of
cakes, pies and drinkables, haltfed in the middle of the street and
made an awning for herself and commenced business. Edward
followed on foot at the tail of the cart in the full dress of the
hunter, with rifle and shot pouch, and his fine, well-taught hunting
dog at his heels, and when he had gotten Succy fairly started at
her business he moved off with his peltry to transact his own busi-
ness. Siiccy was a shrewd woman and adopted all sorts of evasions
to avoid paying license, and sometimes she was hard pressed by the
grand jurors and Attorney- General Dunlop. On one occasion she
was nearly at her wit's end about retailing whiskey, when John
Campbell, the clerk, said something to the court in mitigation,
and the justices, being very willing to accept any excuse, let Succy
off. She never forgot the kindness, and fifteen years afterwards
I, the son of John Campbell, was riding in that part of the country
and was benighted at Succy's cabin, when she treated me with a
kindness and hospitality which 1 shall never forget and in a manner.
*John Greenway afterwards purchased seven hundred acres of land on
Eleven Mile creek, near the residence of W. C. Ladlock, gave it the panje
of "Springfield," and lived there many years.
630 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
too, that showed she knew how to act her part. I have named two
originals of each sex."*
In the year 1780, Abingdon was a considerable village, boasting
of two hotels, one occupying the present location of the Bank of
Abingdon and kept by James Armstrong, and the other, kept by
Mrs. Mary McDonald, on the south side of Main street nearly oppo-
site the courthouse. There were no buildings west of the present
residence of the late S. IST. Honaker, and from this point to the west-
ern limits of the original town was a wild plum and chinquapin
thicket, with a few large white oak trees interspersed.
The residence of Daniel Friel occupied the location of the pres-
ent residence of Mrs. Kate Preston, while the residence of Mrs.
Smith occupied the present location of the~ residence of Mrs. John D.
Mitchell, the residence of Dr. Groce occupying the position of what
is known as the White House, on the south side of Main street, while
to the west of Dr. Groce's residence there lived several families, one
by the name of Wise, another by the name of Eedpath (James) . A
house built by William Brice stood on the present location of the
Colonnade Hotel. These were about all the houses to be found in
the town in the year 1786.
A writer upon this subject makes the statement that General
John Armstrong, Secretary of War under President Madison, and
General Francis Preston Blair, of Missouri, were born on the lot
occupied by Dr. Groce; but it is more probable that General Arm-
strong was born at the home of his father, James Armstrong, and
that General Blair was born at the residence of his father, James
Blair, both of whom lived in Abingdon.
The next ejffort made to extend the town was at a meeting of the
Board of Trustees at the house of William Y. Conn, on the 13th
day of January, 1789.
At this meeting it was ordered that all that part of said town
lying north of the lots on the north side of Main street be laid off
into one-fourth-acre lots, that an alley be left at the north end of
the lots fronting on Main street, and that a street be laid off ten
poles north of said alley, said street to be three poles wide. To
the alley was given the name of Cliinquapin alley, and to the street
thus proposed was given the name of Office or Valley street.
•Governor David CampbeH's MSS.
Washington. County, 1777-1810. 631
Eobert Preston was directed to survey said land and to deliver
particular plats to Andrew Eussell, and Christopher Acklin was
directed to sell said lots at public outcry, as directed by the Act
incorporating the town.
It will be observed that Valley street, as originally proposed,
was three poles wide, but at a meeting of the trustees on the 4th
of October, 1798, it was ordered that the street known as Valley or
Office street be altered and made four poles wide, ten poles north of
Chinquapin alley. This alteration in the width of Valley street was
induced by the fact that the owners of the lands along said street
by their improvements had evidenced that they believed that said
street was four poles wide. At the same meeting of the trustees,
Andrew Eussell was elected secretary and was directed to record a
plan of the inner and outer lots of said town.
At a meeting of the Board of Trustees on the 32 d of November,
1798, Slaughter street was opened two poles wide, running from
Valley street in a northwestwardly course to the northern boundary
of the town land, but for some reason the name Slaughter street
has been given to the cross street running from Valley street to
the railroad and crossing the Main street near the Presbyterian
church.
The original town, as it was in 1798, contained three streets run-
ning east and west, known as Water, Main and Valley streets, with
two alleys north and south of Main street and known as Troopers'
and Chinquapin alleys, the cross streets being Tanners' street, which
crosses Main street near to and west of the residence of Captain
James L. White; Cross street, now known as Court street, crossing
Main street, east of the courthouse ; Brewers' street, crossing Main
street near to and west of the residence of Mrs. Bessie Watson, and
Slaughter street, which began at Main street and ran a northwest-
wardly course to the boundary of the town land.
]\rost of the lots within the town of Abingdon were sold at pub-
lic auction, preA'iously to the year 1798. The names of such pur-
chasers as have been preserved are given in another place.
In the month of October, 1798, Andrew Willoughby resigned
as one of the trustees of the town of i^bingdon, and an election
to fill the vacancy was held on the 3d day of November, 1798.
The election was held at the court-house in said town, and only the
freeholders living within the town were permitted to vote.
032 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
The candidates voted for were Andrew Russell and Frederick
Hamilton, and the freeholders voting in said election were :
William Brice, James White,
John Gold, William Greenway,
Frederick Hamilton, Solomon Marks,
C. Watkins, James Armstrong,
Eobert Dukes, Samuel Glenn,
James Longley, Patrick Lynch,
Joseph Hays, Michael Deckard,
Jacob Baker, John McCormick,
Joseph Acklin, James Eedpath,
C'onually Findlay, Andrew Russell.
It will be seen from an inspection of this poll-list that the free-
holders living within the bounds of Abingdon in 1798 were few
in number.
On the 18th day of April, 1793, the County Court of Wash-
ington county, Virginia, directed that twenty-five pounds out of the
bonds arising from the sale of lots in the town of Abingdon be
appropriated towards building a market-house on the courthouse
lot; and James Armstrong, James Bradley, John McCormick and
Claiborne Watkins were appointed commissioners to superintend
the building of the same; and in September of the same year, the
court appropriated twenty pounds to complete a well upon the pub-
lic lot.
The market-house, when completed, was placed in charge of the
officers of the town, and Tuesdays and Saturdays were the regular
market days, and it was made an offence for any person to sell
Initchers' meats at other times and places in the said town. This
institution was maintained for many years subsequent to 1793, and
as late as the year 1810 the law governing the subject was strictly
enforced.
A Masonic lodge was organized in Abingdon at the residence of
James White on the 3d day of October, 1796, and, by the year
1800, this lodge had erected a Masonic hall in the town on Lot No.
50, Water street, the present location of the new jail. A part of
this building was used by the Abingdon Academy from the year
1803 until about the year 1820.
In 1798 Henry Clay and Captain Henry St. John Dixon came to
Washington County, 1777-1870. 633
Abingdon together for the purpose of settling, provided the country
suited them. The former, after looking around for a week or two,
proceeded on to Kentucky, where his mother had settled after her
second marriage, and the latter, having become acquainted with
the family of Mr. Dick White, on the farm now OMOied by William
Clark, married one of his daughters and lived for many years where
the Stonewall Jackson Institute now stands.*
On the 20th of March, 1799, the County Court appointed Wil-
liam King, James Armstrong, John Eppler and Eobert Craig
commissioners to report a plan for a new stone prison, which was
afterwards built on the public square in the rear of the present
courthouse, James White being the contractor, at the price of
$1,532.25.
By Act of the General Assembly of Virginia of date January 10,
1803, the corporate limits of Abingdon were extended to the west
as far as Lot No. 16, which addition to the town has since been
known as ''Craig's addition'' to the town of Abingdon. On the
13th of January, 1803, the General Assembly authorized the trus-
tees of the town of Abingdon to conduct a lottery for the benefit
of Abingdon Academy, the proceeds to be used in purchasing a
library, philosophical and mathematical apparatus and anything
else necessary for the use of the said Academy. By this same Act
the Academy was chartered, with, many of the prominent citizens
of the town as trustees, evidencing the disposition of the citizens
of Abingdon, at this early day, to afford their children every
necessary facility for securing an education.
The General Assembly of Virginia, during the first fifty years of
the history of Abingdon, adopted numerous laws extending the
time of the property owners for building houses upon the lots
purchased of the town, as required by the Act of the Assembly in
the year 1778.
On the 3d day of August, 1802, an election was held for trus-
tees to succeed Andrew Willoughby, who had died, and Robert
Craig and James Armstrong, who had removed from the town.
The candidates voted for by the freeholders of the town were
Andrew Eussell, James White, Frederick Hamilton and John
'Charles B. Coale.
634 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
McClelland, the three first named being elected. The freeholders
voting in this election were as follows :
William King, Samuel Glenn,
John McClelland, Pat Lynch,
John McCormack, John Gold,
W. Greenway, James Longley,
A. Eussell, G. T. Conn.
Between the years 1800 and 1810, a new courthouse was built
upon the public square, which courthouse served the county until
the year 1848. This courthouse was built of brick and was a very
substantial structure.
By the year 180G, the town and county had grown in importance
to such an extent that a newspaper, a badly-needed institution, was
established in the town of Abingdon by John G. Ustick, the name
of the paper being "The Holston Intelligencer and Abingdon
Advertiser."
The first postoffice in Southwestern Virginia was established at
Abingdon on the 25th day of April, 1793, with Gerrard T. Conn
as postmaster, and this was the only postoffice to be foimd in the
county of Washington, until the year 1833. It is hard to believe
that the citizens of this county for forty years had but one post-
office and one place at which they could mail their letters and receive
their mail.
From the year 1793 until about 1835, Abingdon was the centre
of the business life of Southwest Virginia, East Tennessee and
Kentucky; all mails for the sections named were distributed at the
Abingdon postoffice; and a large per cent, of the wholesale trade
for the same section was controlled and supplied by Abingdon
merchants.
Such was the condition of aft'airs in Abingdon at the beginning of
the war of 1812, and, with the first evidences of war, the patriotism
of the citizens of the town knew no bounds.
A number of brick buildings had been erected in Abingdon,
among the number being the brick building erected by William
King, which building is still standing on the east side of Court
street, opposite the courthouse, and is beyond question the oldest
building in the town of Abingdon.
Abingdon was visited by its first great fire on Thursday night.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 635
September 10, 1812. A description of the fire and the damage
done thereby is here copied from a newspaper published in Abing-
don on the following Saturday.*
"At the hour of midnight of Thursday night last we were alarmed
by the cry of Fire ! which proved to be in the new brick building of
Colonel Francis Preston, which was in a few moments so far con-
sumed as to preclude all hopes of its salvation. The flames con-
tinued to rage until the following property was consumed : Colonel
Francis Preston's frame dwelling house, brick building, ice-house
and every stick of timl)er on his lot; two bouses occupied by ^Ir.
John McCormack, with their out-houses; Mr. Estill's office, Mr.
William IMcKee's dwelling honse, his new frame store, compting
room, kitchen, etc. ; Major James White's saddle shop, dwelling
liouse, kitchen, etc., and tb.e Imilding occupied by John McClellan,
Esq.
"This dreadful destruction of property was the work of some fiend
•of hell. An attempt was made to fire the new courthouse, but the
exertions of a single person, a slave, saved it. Captain F. Smith,
who was early on the spot, discovered the fire in the court-house.
He entered when the flames had risen toi the height of a man's
head. He was about to abandon the building, when Mr. William
Trigg's yellow man JOE ran in, caught up in his arms the combus-
tibles on fire, threw them into the street and saved the building.
This was done at the hazarrl of his life. If the courthouse had
been consumed, we apprehend not a building in the western pre-
cinct of the town would have escaped.
"The citizens are about to reward JOE by presenting bim witli a
sum of money. A subscription will be hanrlcd tbe citizens of tbo
to^Ti for that purpose. CTCntlemcn of the County who feel an in-
terest in the welfare of Abingdon, and who may happen to be in
town can have an opportimity of contributing by calling on Benj.
Estill, Esq., Capt. F. Smith, or Andrew Eussell, Esq."
The Board of Trustees for the town of Abingdon, Ijetween the
years 1808 and 1813, adopted a number of by-laws and ordinances
which conduced very much to the peace and good order of the town.
They began by first adopting I'ldt^ and regulations for the govern-
ment of the trustees at their regular meetings.
*Political Prospect.
636 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Secondly. They adopted an act to enforce the attendance of the
trustees.
Third. An act describing the duties and regulating the fees of the
town sergeant.
Fourth. An act to levy a tax on the tithables and property in the
town of Abingdon.
Fifth. An act to protect property in the town of Abingdon against
fire.
Sixth. An act concerning out-houses.
S^eventh. An act laying off the streets and alleys into precincts
for the purpose of keeping the same in repair.
Eighth. An act to regulate the l)uilding of chimneys to houses
and blacksmith shops.
Ninth. x\n act to prevent ol^striictions and remove nuisances from
the streets and alleys of the town.
Tenth. An act to restrain negroes and mulattoes from being dis-
orderly and for other purposes.
Eleventh. An act to preserve good order in the town of Abingdon.
Twelfth. An act to establish market days in the town of Abing-
don.
Thirteenth. An act concerning houses of evil fame.
Fourteenth. An act to prohibit the female of the dog kind from
running at large in the town of Abingdon.
Fifteenth. An act fixing the marks of the hogs owned by the citi-
zens of the town of Abingdon.
Sixteenth. An act to restrain negroes from wandering about the
streets after night.
Seventeenth. An act allowing witnesses for their attendance be-
fore a justice of the peace.
Eighteenth. An act respecting patrols in the town of Abingdon.
This last act was passed on Friday, 11th day of September, 181^,
the day after th'fe fire heretofore mentioned.
Among the laws adopted by the Board of Trustees at this time was
one that provided that '^'any woman found quarreling or rioting in
the streets or alleys or in any other part of said town to the distnrb-
ance of the inhabitants, shall b'e punished by ducking, as is pre-
scribed by the Act of the Assembly of this Commonwealth." This
law was adopted on the 29th of April, 1809.
The by-laws and ordinances adopted by the trustees were excelTent
Washington County, 1777-1870. 637
in their character, and conkl not be improved upon by the law-
makers of this day.
At the time in question and until the year 1833, Abingdon was
without sidewalks, and her citizens had nothing nuore than a dirt
footway on either side of the street.
On the 26th of June, 1811, the Board of Trustees, by an ordi-
nance, declared that "there shall be nine feet laid off in front of the
lots on Main street, the main cross and Valley streets for a footway,
and the same shall be kept constantly clear and free from obstruc-
tio'us for the convenience of passengers ; and tliat the footways in all
other streets of the town shall be seven feet wide."
About this time nimierous trees were planted along the footways
above mentioned, some of which are to be seen at this day, notably
the large trees along Main street west of the courthouse and front-
ing the residence of Mrs. Bessie Watson.
If the Board of Trustees of Abingdon held meetings or made a
record of tlieir proceedings from the year 1813 until the year 1828
I cannot find it.
The Greneral Assembly of Virginia of the 30th of December, 1819,
adopted a new charter for the town of Abingdon, extending the cor-
porate limits of the town east to the creek near the tan-yard of Lind-
say & JSTewland; thence to Valley street; thence following the outer
limits of Valley street to the old town.
It is impossible to give any of the particulars of this extension of
the town, as no record of the Board of Trustees for this period has
been preserved.
On May 9, 1828, the trustees of the town re-enacted, with but few
changes, the by-laws and ordinances adopted by the Board of Trus-
tees in the years 1808 and 1812.
The additional by-laws adopted were :
First. An act to impose "a tax on public shows.
Second. An act to prevent mischievous dogs from running at
large in the streets and alleys of the town.
Third. An act concerning coal-houses.
Fourth. An act to restrain hogs from running at large in the
town of Abingdon.
Fifth. An act concerning small-pox, and
Sixth. An act to require the sidewalks or footways on the main
street of Abingdon to be paved.
C38 Southioest Virginia, 1746-1786.
On the IStli of June, 1833, the following members of the Board
of trustees — to-wit: Andrew Russell (President), J. W. Paxton,
Thomas Findlay, John M. Preston, Daniel Lynch, Charles C. Gib-
son, Elias Ogden and Jacob Lynch — met at the courthouse in the
town of Abingdon and enacted the following law :
"Whereas the inhabitants of the said town are now engaged in
the laudable enterprise of MacAdamizing the Main Street between
the sidewalks or footways, and it is deemed proper by this Board
that the said sidewalks or footways shall be paved with brick, and
curbstones shall be placed next the street, in order to place the said
Main Street in proper repair, and that this repairing should be
made in front of each lot by the owner thereof,
"Pirst. Be it enacted by the Trusteees of the town of Abingdon,
that every owner of a lot on the Main Street in said town be and
he is liereby required, within twelve months from the time said
MacAdamizing shall bo completed, to pave with brick the footway
in fiont of liis lot, and every person failing herein shall, for
every montli the said foot way in front of his lot shall remain
uiipa\ed, pay a fine of five dollars, to be recovered as other fines are
recovered by law.
"Second. Be it further enacted, tliat every owner of a lot or
part of a lot on said Main Street be and he is hereby required
to deliver or cause to be delivered, in front of his lot on or before
the 15th day of August next, to John Kellar, the superintendent
of the MacAdamizing of said street, a sufficient quantity of curb-
stones to curb the side of the foot way in front of his lot, which
curb-stones shall be at least twenty inches in depth and twelve
inches in width and not less than five or more than seven inches
tliick. Every person failing herein shall pay a fine of eight dol-
lars for every lot he or she shall own, or in tliat proportion foT a
greater or lesser piece of ground, which -fines, or so much thereof
as may be necessary, shall be appropriated to tlie purchase of the
curb-stones hereby required to be delivered."
The approach to the courthouse from the east and west pre-
vious to 1830 was exceedingly steep, the courthouse standing upon
the summit of an oval-shaped hill on the north side of Main street
and facing south. The approach from the east was not only steep,
but large limestone rocks, to a great extent, rendered the street
ahuost impassable.
Woshington County, 1777-J870. 639
As early as the year 1830, Colo'iiel John Kellar, who was super-
intendent of the streets in the eastern precinct of the town, spent
a considerable sum of money in blasting the rocks ont of the street
east of the courthonse, and soon thereafter a number of the enter-
prising citizens of the town, by private subscription, undertook the
macadamizing of the main street of the town. The subscribers to
this cause, with the amount contributed by each, as far as I can
ascertain, were as follows :
Andrew Eussell, $ 17 71
John Gibson, 10 00
Chas. S. Bekem, 5 00
John Preston, Jr., 5 00
Samuel Logan, 20 00
Elias Ogden, 25 00
John Hall, 3 00
Daniel Sheffey, 30 00
John S. Preston, 40 00
General Francis Preston, 50 00
John M. Preston, 500 00
If there were other contributors to this fund, no record of names
or amounts contributed has been preserved. The work of macada-
mizing Main street was done by Jacob Clark under the supervision
of Colonel John Kellar.
The county of Washington and the town of Abingdon assisted in
discharging the cost of macadamizing the main street, the private
subscriptions not being sufficient for the purpose.
Washington county was represented in the General Assembly of
Virginia in the year 1834 by Colonel John Kellar in the Senate and
Thomas McCulloch in the House of Delegates.
Colonel John Kellar was one of the most enterprising citizens
that ever lived in the town of Abingdon, and, as a result of his
efforts in behalf of the town, he succeeded in having the General
Assembly of Virginia, on the 11th day of March, 1834, adopt a new
charter for the town of Abingdon, which charter completely changed
the form of government and greatly extended the corporate limits
of the town.
Under tliis new charter the limits of the town were as follows :
Beginning on the northeast corner of the bridge near the currying
shop of George V. Litchfield, and in a line with the lands of John N".
640 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Humes ; thence northwardly on said line to a point in a line parallel
to the northern boundary of the inner lots of the said town ; thence
westwardly on said parallel and along the said line to the line of the
land of Alexander Findlay ; thence Avith the said Findlay's line to a
point parallel to the southern line of Valley street; thence with the
said parallel westwardly to a point parallel to' the western line of the
lot on which Jacob Loehr formerly lived ; thence in a direct line
southwardly to the line of said lot and along the same to the alley ;
th&nce with said alley to Ijot No. 17 in Eobert Craig s plan; thence
with the eastern line of said Lot No. 17, and continuing in the same
direction to a point parallel to the southern boundary of the inner
lots first laid off for the said town ; thence to the said southern boun-
dary and along it to the southwestern boundary of Samuel Bailie's
lots ; thence with the line of said lot to the gate at the corner of
General Francis Preston's and John N. Hume's land ; thence in a
straight line to the beginning.
This charter provided that all the free white inhabitants of said
town should be a body corporate by the name and style of Mayor,
Council and Inhabitants of the town of Abingdon, and by that name
sue and be sued, etc.
This charter directed that on the first Monday in May, 1834, and
annually thereaft^er on the first Monday in May, the inhabitants of
said town legally authorized to vote for members of the General
Assembly and the freeholders therein who may not be inhabitants
and all other housekeepers therein not thus qualified shall assemble
at the courthouse of the county, in said town, and shall there and
then elect ten persons, being freeholders in said town, who shall be
called and denominated a Council, and one other person who shall be
denominated a Mayor. The Council thus chosen were directed to
hold two regular meetings in each and every year — one the first Mon-
day after they were elected and the other on the first Monday in
December, and at such other times as they shall be assembled by the
Mayor. The Council were authorized to appoint a clerk and treas-
urer, and the Mayor was authorized to appoint the town sergeant,
surveyors and superintendents of the streets, and such other powers
were conferred upon the Mayor and Council of the town as were
pecessary for the government aaid improvement of the same.
This charter has been followed in all subsequent amendments of
Washington Covnty, 1777-1870. 641
the laws of the town, and it is from this source that we derive our
present form of town government.
The first Mayor and Council elected under this charter were as
follows :
Mayor — John M. Preston.
Council — Daniel Lynch, Augustus Oury, John S. Pi-eston, Jere-
miah Bronough, E. E. Preston, Benjamin Estill, John Kellar, Peter
J. Branch, Daniel Trigg, Chas. S. Bekem.
Clerk and Treasurer — Jacoh Lynch.
Sergeant — Jacob Clark.
The Mayor and Council thus elected adopted the necessary laws
for the government of the town, and in doing so they followed, to a
great extent, the laws adopted in the years 1808 and 1812 by the
Board of Trustees of the town.
The one act adopted by th-e town of Abingdon that is worthy of
notice at this point was an act to regulate the sale of ardent spirits
in the town, adopted June 13th, 1837. This act provided that, "If
any person within the corporation of Abingdon shall sell by retail
(other than an ordinary keeper), to be drunk in or at the place
where sold, or in or upon the premises of which such person has con-
trol, or within the said corporation, any wine, rum, brandy or other
ardent spirits, or a mixture thereof, he or she so offending shall pay
a fine to the said corporation of $5.25 for each offence."
A description of Abingdon as it was in the year 1835 has been pre-
served, which description is as follows :
"It is situated on the great valley road, about 8 miles north of
the Tennessee Iwundary, at the southeast side of a mountain ridge,
about seven miles distant from either of the two main forks of the
Holston River. A part of the town stands on a considerable emi-
nence, beneath which there is a cavern containing a lake.
"Abingdon contains, besides the ordinary county buildings, be-
tween 150 and 200 dwelling-houses, many of them handsome brick
buildings. A portion of the inhabitants are followers of Baron
Swedenborg, in other words belong to the New Jerusalem Church,
but they possess no house of worship and their preacher occasionally
occupies one or the other of the Methodist houses.
"There is an academy for females and one for males, (both brick
edifices) 2 hotels kept in good style, 3 taverns principally used for
the accommodation of wagoners, 1 manufacturing flour mill, 9 mer-
642 Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
eantile houses, some of wliicli are wholesale establishments and sell
goods to the amount of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars an-
nually, 3 groceries, 1 woolen and 2 cotton manufactories and one
well-established nursery.
"There are 4 tanyards with saddle and harness manufactories at-
tached to them, 10 blacksmith's shops, 1 hat manufactory and store,
6 wheelwrights and wagon makers, 2 cabinet warehouses, 3 brick-
layers, 2 stone masons, 3 house-carpenters, 3 watch-makers and jewel-
ers, 2 boot and shoe factories, 3 house and sign painters, 2 copper-
smiths and tin-plate workers and 3 tailors.
"Abingdon is rapidly increasing in population and trade. Old
houses are giving place to handsome brick buildings, which tlie opu-
lent and enterprising citizens are daily erecting. The main street
has lately been MacAdamized at considerable expense, but greatly to
the improvement of its utility, beauty and comfort.
"As a specimen of the flourishing condition of this town, we must
mention that a quarter acre lot, situated near the courthouse, re-
cently sold for upwards of $4,000. There is a distributing postoffice
here. Population, 1,000 persons, of wdiom thirteen are resident at-
torneys, and 3 regular physicians.
"County Courts are held on the 4th Monday in every month;
quarterly, in March, June, August and jSTovember.
"Judge Estill holds his Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chan-
cery on the 2nd Monday after the 4th of April and September."
It may excite some surprise when told that in this large and well-
populated county there were in 1831 but two postofflces, the one in
Abingdon and the other at Seven-Mile Ford ; but since the severance
of Smyth the one at Seven-Mile Ford is now in that county, in con-
sequence of which there is not, to our knowledge, any other postoffice
in this county except the one at Abingdon, the county seat. The
merchants doing business in the town of Abingdon at this time
were: William McKee & Co., Edward M. & John C. Greenway, John
M. Preston, Col. James White and Findlay & Mitchell, and with
such merchants Abingdon was the centre of trade for all the sur-
rounding country. All goods were brought tO' Abingdon from Bal-
timore by wagon.
The practicing physicians in Abingdon at the time were Drs.
Earl B. Clapp, James W. Paxton and Alexander E. Preston.
There was but one church in the town, and that was a frame
Washington County, 1777-1870. 643
structure occupied by the Methodist Episcopal church, and one
in the vicinity, and that was the Presbyterian cliurch situated west
of the entrance gate to the Sinking Spring Cemetery. That church
was a very okl log-building, weatherboarded on the outside and
ceiled inside, and to this old-fashioned house nearly all the people
gathered from the town and surrounding country for the worship
of God.
Upon the arrival of Eev. Lewis F. Cosby in Abingdon in March,
1831, efforts were immediately set on foot to build a Methodist
Protestant church, which church was erected that year upon the
present location of that church. The Presbyterians, being
stimulated thereby, at once undertook the erection of a new church,
and in the same year their new church, now Tentperance Hall, was
completed and occupied.
The Co'Unty Court of Wasliington count}^ on the 24th of July,
1838, upon the application of John W. Stevens, captain of a com-
pany of artillery, granted permission to erect a gun-house upon the
public lot, and John M. Preston, Elias Ogden and Jacob Lynch
were directed to superintend the erection of it. This company was
organized as a result of the agitation preceding the Texas Revo-
lution, and Captain Stevens organized this company of artillery
from the patriotic youth of Abingdon.
On the 23d day of October, 1838, a new county jail was completed
on the public lot at the corner of Court and Valley streets, and
the prison bounds were so extended as to include the new jail.
On the IGth day of November, 1841, Andrew Russell, after more
than forty years of active participation in the government of the
town of Abingdon, departed this life, and appropriate resolutions
were adopted by the County Court of Washington county, Virginia,
in token of respect to his name.
On the 2,7th of May, 1844, the County Court of Washington
county appointed John M. Preston a commissioner to have a well
dug upon the jail lot, which was done, and this served large numbers
of the people of the town until the year 1901.
In the 3' ear 1846, the citizens of Washing-ton county were very
greatly interested in the war between the United States and Mexico,
Captain A. C. Cummings and General Peter C. Johnson taking an
active part in the efforts made to organize the citizens of this
county and enlist them in the service of their country, and on the
644 Southwest Virginia, 174G-178G.
25tli of March, 184G, the County Court entered the following
order :
"On motion of Arthur C. Cummings, Captain of the Artillery
attached to the lG4th Eegiment of Virginia Militia, and it appearing
to the court that the cannon which was sent out for the use of the
said company is being injured for want of a shed to place the said
cannon under to protect it from the weather, it is tlierefore ordered
that leave be granted the said Cummings to have a suitable shed
erected for the purpose aforesaid on the lower end of the public lot
on which the courthouse stands, provided he can procure the same
to be done at an expense not exceeding the sum of twenty dollars,
and that the same be levied in the next County levy/^
A number of the citizens of this county served in that war under
Captain Cummings, while General William E. Jones and Lieuten-
ant John Preston Jolinston did valiant service for their countiy,
Johnston losing his life in the service.
In the spring of the year 1847 the County Coairt of Washington
county, Virginia, authorized the building of a new courthouse
for the county in the town of Abingdon, which courthouse was
completed by the year 1850, the court occupying a house of the late
James White as a court-room from the year 1847 to 1850.
Herbert M. Ledbetter was the undertaker of said building, and
William Fields assisted in the completion of the building. Upon
the completion of the courthouse Connally F. Trigg and Jacob
Lynch were appointed commissioners to secure tables and chairs for
the new courthouse and to have the courthouse bell removed and
hung therein.
It was also directed that the portico to the new courthouse should
be enclosed with an iron railing; that the public lot should be en-
closed and suitable pavements provided. The floors of the court-
house M^ere ordered to be carpeted.
At a meeting of the stockholders of the Exchange Bank of Vir-
ginia, held at Norfolk, Va., in the month of May, 1849, a branch
bank was ordered to be established at Abingdon, with a capital of
$100,000, and during the same month this branch bank was
organized at Abingdon by the election of the following officers:
President, Dr. Daniiel Trigg; casliier, Robert R. Preston; directors,
John C. Greenway, David Campbell, Beverly R. Johnston, Jacob
Lynch, Isaac B. Dunn and Thomas L. Preston.
WasJiington County, 1777-1870. 645
This was Abingdon's first bank, and the town has not been with-
out a bank since that time, with the exception of a short period in
the fall of theyear 1893.
Upon the 30th of May, 1850, a peculiar order was entered by the
County Court, which was as follows :
"It appearing to the Court that there is now no overseer of the
streets and alleys in the western end of the town of Abingdon, and
that there is at present no j\Iayor in said town who could appoint
an overseer, and it further appearing to the Court that the street
in said town called Slaughter or Butcher Street south of the Main
Street is in such bad repair as to render it unsafe to pass over it with
a vehicle of any kind or for man on horseback ; it is therefore ordered
that Norman Crawford be and he is hereby authorized and directed
to proceed and cause the said street to be put in such repair as to
render the passage along the same safe and convenient for wheel
carriages and horsemen, and that the expense thereof be levied O'ut
?of the next county levy."
On the 27th of April preceding, James H. Dunn, with ten other
prominent citizens of the town, were elected Mayor and councilmen,
and why this order was entered cannot be ascertained from the
records preserved. •
In the year 1856, the Mayor and Council of Abingdon appointed
E. M. Campbell, W. J. Deady and John C. Campbell a committee
to have Slaughter street graded and macadamized, which was ac-
cordingly done.
At the April term, 1S53, of the County Court of this county, the
court appointed John j\r. Preston, Peter J. Branch and Beverly E.
Johnston a committee to plant trees in the public square north of
the courthouse, which duty was performed and the trees thus planted
remained in the sqitare until the year 1902, when they were cut down
and removed from the premises.
On the 31st day of March, 1856, a fire of considerable projDortions
consumed a portion of the western end oi the town. A descrip-
tion of the fire and the damage done, as given by the "Virginian"
at the time, is here copied.
"On Saturday morning last, about 2 o'clock, our town was visited
by the most destructive fire that has occurred here since 1812. The
hour at which it commenced, when the whole population was buried
in slumber, and the place, in the midst of the largest collection of
646 Southwest Virginia, 17.^0-1786.
combustible material in the town, rendered it but the more resistless
and disastrous. It broke out in the extensive coach factory of
Mr. Henry Sinon, and in the course of an hour five large buildings,
four of them wood, were consumed, besides numerous out-buildings
that were either burned or torn down. Mr Sinon lost his dwelling,
his shops and every building upon his premises, besides everything
they contained, except a portion of his furniture. Some forty-odd
new carriages and buggies were destroyed, as well as all his lumber,
tools, materials, books and papers, involving a total loss of every-
thing he possessed, except his family and part of his furniture and
apparel.
"The house recently purchased for the Gift Enterprise was also re-
duced to ashes, and the buildings of Mr. William Eodefer, adjoin-
ing, were demolished to arrest the progress of the tiames. On the
opposite side of the street Mr. Michael Shaver lost two tenements,
one his old family residence on the corner, and the other a new
two-story brick, recently erected.
"The wind, coming from the west, for a time threatened the de-
struction of the whole town, as the flames broke out at various times
and places upon the roofs of many of the neighboring buildings.
Under all the circumstances, the dryness of the weather, the stiff
northwest breeze, the combustible material of the buildings, the in-
flammable contents of the large, well-filled coach shop, the hour
of the night and consequent relaxation of the muscles and energies
of the people, and the scarcity of water, the wonder is that the
destructio!! of property was not greater, but when the people did
get there and had their blood warmed up, they put forth all their
energies and fought the devouring element manfully. The whole
population was out, men, women, children and servants, and all
performed their duty.
"The loss is a heavy one, probably between $30,000 and $40,000,
and the whole is supposed to have been the work of an incendiary.
A negro girl of Mr. Sinon's, who had previously forboded or threat-
ened evil to the family, is now in Jail under suspicion.
"Messrs. Crawford, Ellis, Joseph A. Brownlow and H. B. Tunnell
are the other persons whose families were left without shelter, all
of whom, so rapid was the progress of the flames, lost a portion
of their household property. A broad expanse of blackened earth
Washington County, 1777-1870. 647
with a ninuber of tall, ghost-like chimneys, is all that is left of the
best improved portion of the west end of Abingdon.
"In addition to Mr. Sinon's loss of carriages, Mr. Greenway lost
four, Mr. Robertson two, and Messrs. T. L. Preston, B. K. and
M. H. Buchanan, Thos. G. McConnell, J. M. Rose and others one
each.
"On Saturday evening a meeting of the citizens was held for the
purpose of relieving, as far as possible, the destitution of the suf-
ferers, at which John M. Preston, Esq., was called to the chair
and John G. Kreger appointed Secretary. The Chairman ex-
plained the object of the meeting and appointed Revs. McChain,
Baldwin, Dickey, and Barr and Wni. Y. C. White, Esq., a com-
mittee to wait iipon the people for such aid as they might be dis-
posed to contribute. The last we heard of the effort, upwards of
$1*200 had been raised, which, for the citizens of town and vicinity,
is exceedingly liberal."
By this time tlie Virginia and Tennessee railroad was approacliing
Abingdon, and on the 1st day of April, 1854, the Council of Abing-
don passed an ordinance allowing the Virginia and Tennessee Rail-
road Company to enter the town and to use the streets and cross
streets of the town, provided they place their depot in the town or
at the eastern end thereof, and the citizens of the town presented
a petition to the authorities of the new road asking that the same
be located at the Knob Road, or the eastern end of the town.
In addition to what the Council of the town did to secure the
depot of the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad Company, the citizens
of the town petitioned the railroad authorities to place their depot
at the eastern end of the town, but Thomas L. Preston agreed to
give the railroad three acres of land at the present location of the
Norfolk and Western depot, and the depot of the railroad was estab-
lished at that point, the railroad being completed as far as Abingdon
by the year 1856.
John D. Mitchell, the j\Iayor of Abingdon, departed this life on
Tuesday morning, March loth, 1859, and on the following morn-
ing the Council of the town convened at the courthouse and ap-
pointed Dr. E. M. Campbell, S. W. Carnahan and James C. Green-
way a committee to draft and report suitable resolutions, which
committee reported on the evening of the same day. The resolu-
tions were as follows :
G48 SoutJnvest Virginia, 17K>-^7S6.
"Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God to call suddenly from
our midst John D. Mitchell, Esq., our ^\?ol?thy officer and esteemed
citizen, therefore :
"Resolved, That it is with deej^ regret we have heard of the sud-
den death of our Ma3'or and friend, John D. Mitchell, Esq., and
that in his death the community has lost a long tried and faithful
piiblic servant and an esteemed and worthy citizen, and this body
an efficient and honored presiding officer.
"Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with the family of the
deceased.
"Resolved, That the members of the Council and its officers
wear a badge of mourning for thirty days.
"Resolved, That this preamble and these resolutions be entered
upon the record of the Council.
"Resolved, That a copy of these proceedings be transmitted to.
the family of the deceased.
"Resolved, That the editors of the 'Virginian' and 'Democrat'
be requested to publish the foregoing preamble and resolutions in
their respective papers."
This is the only death of a Mayor of the town while in office in
the history of the town.
Nothing furtlier of importance occurred previously to the spring
of 18G1, the opening of the war between the States. In the spring
of this year the following officers of the town were elected :
Mayor, Samuel W. Carnahan; Councilmen, James K. Gibson,
Thomas S. Stuart, Milton Y. Heiskell, Jacob Lynch, John G.
Kreger, Isaac Benham, Newton K. White, William Keller, John W.
Johnston and William Eodefer; Sergeant, B. C. Clark.
The charter of the town was amended by Act of tlie Assembly on
the 18th of March, 1852, and by this charter the town was au-
thorized to construct water works for the town, but the question
had to be submitted to the voters of the town for their approval or
disapproval.
By an order of the Council an election was ordered for the second
day of July, 1853, which election was held, but the result cannot
be given, as no record of the same has been preserved. It is probable
that the vote was adverse, as the question is not mentioned again
in the records.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 649
At the first meeting of the new Council^ on the 9th of July, 1861,
the following orders were entered :
"Ordered that the Mayor appoint a patrol of the citizens, re-
gardless of age, to patrol the town of nights, who are able to render
such service."
"On motion the Mayor is directed to appoint a committee to
wait upon those who sell liquor in the town and request them not
to sell liquor toi the soldiers in and about Abingdon."
"On motion it was made the duty further of said committee to
request of officers permitting their men to come to Abingdon to
require of them to leave their side-arms in their camp quarters."
The record of the town government from this time until the
summer of 1863 has not been preserved.
At a meeting of the Town Council on the 18th of August, 1863,
the Mayor was appointed a committee to ascertain at what price a
negro man, suitable for work on the streets, could be purchased
by the coTporation. The committee reported on September 1st,
1863, that a negro man suitable for the purpose could be pur-
chased of Mr. Seabright for $1,800. Thereupon, it was moved
and seconded that the negro man be purchased, upon which mo-
tion a vote was taken and resulted in a unanimous vote against
the purchase of the negro, otherwise we might now have to record
the corporation of Abingdon as a slave-owner.
At the same meeting of the Council, C. S. Bekem and E. M. Camp-
bell were appointed a committee to select a suitable piece of ground
outside of the present enclosure of the Sinking Spring Cemetery
as a burial ground for Confederate soldiers, to ascertain the cost
of the same, and report to the next meeting of the Council, but
this committee was discharged on the 18th of April, 1864, without
reporting, and a resolution was adopted requesting Captain M. B.
Tate, post-quartermaster, to make some arrangements as to a proper
location for the burial of Confederate soldiers and enclosing the
same.
Quit*e a numljer of Confederate dead are buried in the Sinking
Spring Cemetery, and their graves to-day are unmarked, and not
the slightest effort has recently been made to keep green the graves,
or fresh in memory the brave souls who died in defence of their
country, and, as they were taught to believe, in a righteous cause.
Could these brave men again appear in the flesh and see their
650 Southwest Virginia, 1740-1786.
surroundings, how justly could they reproach their fellow-soldiers,
descendants and kinsmen, for their failure to discharge such an
obligation to the worthy dead.*
By the latter part of August, 1863, numbers of wounded soldiers
and officers were in Abingdon, and the enemy not thirty miles
distant, and on September 1st, 1863, the owners of carriages in and
around Abingdon lent every assistance in transporting the sick and
wounded to Washiugion Springs.
On the 25th of September, 1863, this community was threatened
by an invasion of the Federals from the west. An account of the
situation, as it was in Abingdon at that time, is here given :
"On Saturday last, great excitement prevailed all over this
county, in consequence of the apprehended approach of the Yankees
from Kingsport, Tenn., in this direction. The particulars, as
accurately as we can obtain them from the mass of contradictory
rumors and accounts, are these: Two companies of Col. Carter's
1st Tenn. Cavalry had been resting and recruiting their horses for
a few days on Netherland's Island, near Kingsport, after their suc-
cessive skirmishes with the enemy near Cumberland Gap, when they
were suddenly attacked by a Yankee Brigade under General Eoss.
Carter threw his few men on this side of the river and made a stand
at Vance's Ford of Eeedy Creek, opposite the upper end of Kings-
port. After holding the enemy in check awhile, a very large force
was seen crossing the river above the island, for the purpose of
flanking him. Carter's men then fell back, taking the Holston
Springs road one mile this side of Kingsport, and being separated
from the rest of the command, they proceeded to Bristol on Sat-
urday. The Yankees kept the Eeedy Creek road to Morell's Mill,
and thence to Bristol. A large portion of Colonel Carter's men,
from freqiieut skirmishing and falling back, became much scattered,
but the small number, about one hundred and fift}^, who were led
by the Colonel in person, fought gallantly and made a stand when-
ever and wherever there was a chance to hold the enemy in check.
"The enemy reached Bristol about the middle of the day Satiir-
day, and committed some depredations, among which were the
burning of the commissary house with, some say a hundred, and
others three hundred, barrels of flour, a small amount of bacon
*Since the above was written a neat wire fence has been placed around
the square containing the bodies of the Confederate dead.
Washington Comity, 1777-1870. 651
and some dozen boxes of ammunition, rifled Gugginheimer's store
and despoiled the houses of a few citizens. This latter was done
by a few stragglers who had been left behind and who were in-
toxicated.
"The enemy then started in this direction, and Carter again
gave them fight at Millard's Mill, one mile this side of Bristol,
farther than wliich they did not come in force. Foraging parties
scattered out as far up perhaps as Col. John Preston's, but no par-
ticular damage was done that we have heard of. They all then
retired beyond Bristol, and, on Sunday morning, proceeded towards
Zollicoffer, where they were met by General Jones and got more
than they bargained for. The fight lasted several hours, with, it is
said, a loss to the enemy of nine killed and about thirty wounded, and
to us of two killed and seven or eight wounded. General Williams
pursued the enemy to within two and one-half miles of Blountville
and only returned when called back by a dispatch from Gen. Jones.
"All day Saturday most intense excitement prevailed in Abing-
don. The company recently organized in town was under arms all
day, together with various squads from the country, in support of
Davidson's Battery, then stationed in this vicinity, with the Provost
Guard, and also a portion of Colonel Carter's cavalry, and Col.
Chenneworth and his command. From the position of our forces,
a fair view of the road towards Bristol was had for a mile or two,
in which direction all eyes were constantly turned. Ever and anon,
when a cloud of dust produced by flying refugees, men, women,
negroes and stock, rose in the distance. Captain Davidson could be
seen to look sternly, and the fingers of the undrilled infantry
pressed upon the triggers of the charged muskets. Had the Yan-
kees approached, many saddles would have been emptied, for de-
termined resistance was depicted in every countenance.
"Had it not been humiliating it would have been amusing to see
citizens and strangers stampeding through town with as much haste
and excitement as if the Yankees had been at their heels, when
the latter were quietly regaling themselves at Bristol, without a
thought of proceeding another foot in this direction. As night
approached, scouts brought the information that th'e enemy had
gone in the opposite direction, when ^quiet once more reigned in
Warsaw.' "*
* Abingdon, Virginia.
G52 Southivest Virginia, 1740-1786.
From this time until the summer of 1864, the officers and citi-
zens of Abingdon were kept busy guarding the town, nursing the
sick and wounded and burying the dead. To add tO' the troubles
of the people, in the month of June, 1864, small-pox was dis-
covered in the town, which caused a great deal of uneasiness and
annoyance.
Such was the condition of the people of the town in the month
of December, 1864, when General Stoneman, in command of about
10,000 Federal troops, arrived at Abingdon on the evening of the
14t]i. By order oi General Stoneman, the depot of the Virginia
and Tennessee Eailroad Company, the Government Commissary
(Hurt's store), in charge of Captain Williams, the issuing depart-
ment of the Quartermaster's Department (Sinon & Co.'s brick
carriage factory), in charge of Major Crutchfield, Quartermaster's
storing department (Musser & Co.'s carriage factory), in charge
of J. E. C. Trigg, the county jail and the barracks opposite
the jail, on the corner of Court and Valley streets, were destroyed
by fire, the Federal officers strictly enjoining the destruction of any
other than government property. After the destruction of this
property, the Federal troops resumed their march to the east, but
had not left the town more than two hours before a renegade by
the name of James (Tites) Wyatt, who had formerly been an
apprentice to Gabriel Stickley, being in the town on horseback,
proceeded to fire all the property on both sides of Main street
from Court street to Brewers' street. He succeeded in firing the
courthouse and other buildings on the north side of Main street
and had fired all the buildings on the south side of Main as far
west as the present storehouse occupied by Honaker & Sons, when
he discovered the presence of a number of Confederate soldiers and
undertook to make his escape, passing down Main street to the west
with all possible speed, hotly pursued by the Confederate soldiers,
being hard pressed all the time. When he reached Hayes Street
he turned to the south at the eastern gate of Stonewall Jackson
Institute. At this point he fell from his horse and was left for
dead, but was afterwards carried into the former residence of Gov-
ernor Floyd, where he soon died.
The fire that he thus started destroyed the courthouse of the
county and all the buildings west as far as the present residence
of S. ISr. Honaker. All the buildings on that side of the street
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 653
were of brick and almost all were three stories high. On the south
of Main street every building, without an exception, was destroyed,
from Court street on the east to Brewers' street on tlie west.
The fire might have been stopped sooner, but, at the time, in Abing-
don was hardly an able-bodied man, and about the only witnesses
of the destruction of the town were old men, women and children.
Thus the people of Abingdon were to a great extent rendered
homeless, with starvation and sickness on every side and their
co'untry in the hands of the enemy. Such was the condition of the
town when peace came, in 18G5.
The fall of 1865 and spring of 1866 were used by the people
in collecting and preserving such property as had been left after
four years of desperate fighting.
The first meeting of the Town Council of Abingdon, after the
surrender, was held at the office of Dr. W. F. Barr on March 3d,
1866, with the following officers present: Mayor, G. E. E. Dunn;
Councilmen, j^orman Crawford, Charles J. Cummings, John G.
Clark, David G. Thomas, William Eodefer, Milton Y. Heiskell
and W. F. Barr.
The first order entered by this meeting was one repealing the by-
laws in so far as the same referred to the punishment of slaves and
free men of color, and the Mayor was directed tO' refer all viola-
tions of the laws of the towTi by freed men or freed women to
Lieutenant Woodward, superintendent of the Freedmen's Bureau
of this district.
At the same meeting a committee of five was appointed to petition
the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad Company to locate the new
depot on or near the Knob Eoad leading from Abingdon, or at the
eastern end of the town, and on March 16th, 1866, a committee
of three was appointed to ascertain what ground could be procured
for a depot and what subscription could be raised to aid in build-
ing the depot, and on June 21st, 1866, a resolution was adopted,
requesting the directors of the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad
Company to send a committee to Abingdon to discuss with the
Council the question of the location of a depot; but, notwithstand-
ing the efi^orts of the officers and tlie people of the town of Abing-
don, the depot was built upon the location of the old depot.
The Council and people of Abingdon from this time hencefor-
ward lent their every energy toward the upbuilding of the town.
654 Southwest Virginia, 1740-1786.
and in a few years the damages suffered by the town as a result
of the war wei-e completely obliterated.
Pursuant to the proclamation of the Governor, the courts of the
county and circuit were held in the Temperance Hall until the
county could build a new courthouse.
The County Court of Washington county, in November, 1866,
awarded the contract of building a new courthouse to the follow-
ing persons : To Messrs. James and David Fields, the brick-work
and plastering; to Mr. Hockman, of Harrisonburg, the carpentry-
work; to Messrs. Keller & Grim, the tin-work; to Messrs. Morri-
son and Vaughan, the painting. The courthouse was completed by
the beginning of the year 1869, and at the time was said to be the
liandsomest courthouse in the State.
On May 10th, 1873, Valley sti-eet, from the residence of Martin
Keller to the west gate of the residence of G. V. Litchfield, was
ordered to be macadamized, G. Y. Litchfield paying a large part
of the costs of said macadamizing.
We here give a description of the town as it was in 1875, written
by the late Charles B. Coalc.
"Abingdon was endowed with its name anterior to 1776. The
streets, of which there are seven, intersect each other at right angles,
three east and west, and four north and south, with an equal number
of alleys running in the same direction. The streets are sixty
feet wide and the alleys sixteen. The main street is MacAdamized,
as are several others partially, with brick pavements on either side,
from one end of the town to the other. There is no place of its
size in the State more noted for fashion, taste and morality, with its
usual proportion of loafers and gentlemen of leisure; and, like all
other places where there is or has been considerable wealth, there is
a right smart sprinkling of what some people would term aristoc-
racy, but which, in reality, is nothing more than a decent observance
of the co'nventionalities of life. Many ef the private residences,
as well as the public buildings, are of brick, large and tasteful,
and a number of them three stories high. Th'ey are generally neat,
some of them approaching elegance, and but few dilapidated,
tliough one here and there may look as if it had been rocl^ed by an
earthquake, or had danced to the piping ef a hurricane, at some
period in its history. We claim to have one of the most capacious
and convenient conrthouses in the Commonwealth, and by some it
Washington County, 1777-1870. 655
is considered a model in architecture, with its massive pillars and
towering steeple, though the writer must confess that he cannot
exactly see it in that light.
"We are great church-going people and have a variety of de-
nominations. For instance, we have two Methodist churches, Epis-
copal and Protestant, a Baptist, a Presbyterian, a Protestant Epis-
copal, and a Eoman Catholic, and for good measure we have thrown
in a Swedenborgian Temple, and a few Lutherans, Universalists
and Christian Baptists lying around loose. In all these churches
are regular services, except the Baptist, which is rather too far
from water to be very vigorous, and the Swedenborgian. We
liave three large and well kept hotels, nine variety stores, two
drug stores, two fancy stores, two or three drinking saloons, half a
dozen confectionaries, an agricultural warehouse, a bakery, a bil-
liard saloon, an iron-foundry, three or four black-smith and as
many wheelwright shops, two tanneries, two or three saddle and
harness establishments, any number of carpenters, painters, shoe-
makers, tailors, brick and stone-masons, a large brick town-hall, a
library association and reading room, in which may be found all
the leading literature of the day, and last, though not least, two
of the best weekly papers within a circuit of a dozen miles, and a
job office. The town was incorporated by legislative enactment
many years ago, and, city-like, has a mayor and common council,
who maintain the peace and dignitj^ of the corporation and periodi-
cally enforce the hog-law.
"We have, as is the case in all places where the people get sick
and die, or fall out with and wrong each other, a redundancy of
doctors and lawyers, five or six of the former and a baker's dozen
of the latter, none of them probably making fortunes very rapidly
by their professions,
"There seems to be no possible chance of a diminution of lawyers
shortly, but there is a bare probability that some of the doctors
may take a dose of his own medicine one of these days, and if so,
the jig is certainly up with him. One of our citizens. Judge
Jolmston, is a United States Senator, and we have a score or less
who would love to be in the house of representatives. And right
here it might be said, that we have three banks, all as stubborn
as mules since tlie Legislature has limited interest to six per cent.,
two or three insurance companies, a machine shop operated by
656 Southivest Viryiuia, 17Jf6-178G.
steain, two tin and copper-smith's establisliments, a photograph gal-
lery, two barber shops and the biggest sort of a colored school/'
Nothing more of sufficient importance to be worthy of note oc-
curred from this time until the year 1884. In the month of April
of that year the Council of the town appropriated $100 to pay the
expenses of a committee to the city of Washington to prevent the
United States Courthouse from being located at Wytheville. And
in this year the main street, from J. M. Eose's to' Wall street, and
Wall street, from Main street to the depot, was macadamized,
thirty feet in width, and from six to twelve inches in depth. Side-
walks made of brick and curb-stones Avere placed on both sides of
Main street and of Wall street, at an expense of several thousand
dollars. A large portion of the territory in the western part of
the town was thus opened and prepared for rapid development, and
at this time the community thus dealt Math constitutes the best
business section of the town.
The Maj^or and Council were authorized and directed to issue
$20,000 in bonds, pursuant to the Act of the General Assembly of
date March 4th, 1884, and, in keeping wath this spirit of improve-
ment, the Council, by an ordinance passed on the 12th day of
April, 1886, ordered all porches and steps to be removed from the
streets of the town, and a committee was appointed on April 5tli of
the same year to investigate the opening of Valley street, through
the property of Miss Ella V. Findlay and that of Dr. William
White. By an ordinance, adopted on the 11th day of October,
1886, the sergeant of the town was ordered to kill all the English
sparrows foimd within the corporate limits.
The author of the last ordinance is unknown, the record giving
no information of the member of the Council upon whose motion
this order was made.
About this time a peculiar order was entered by the Council of
the town. The contest as to the readjustment of the State debt
was the sole theme of public discussion, and, upon motion of James
H. Hines, William H. Mitchell was permitted to erect a pole at
the corner of Court and Main streets and near the Bank of
Abingdon building and to place thereon a Eeadjuster flag. This is
the only instance in the history of the town, so far as I can ascertain,
in wdiich a request of this kind was made and granted.
On the 14th day of October, 1887, S. F. Hurt, a member of the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 657
Town Council, at the request of Captain James L. White, moved
that an election be ordered to take the sense of the citizens of the '
town of Abingdon upon the voting of $20,000 of the bonds of the
town to the Abingdon Coal & Iron Eailroad Company. The Council
directed this election to be hold on the 24th of November, 1887, and
John C. Campbell, David J. Webb and W. M. G. Sandoe were ap-
pointed judges to conduct the election, in which election all per-
sons authorized to vote in any election held in the town for town
officers were permitted to vote. The result of the election was one
hundred and fifty-three votes for the subscription and thirty votes
against the subscription, being one hundred and eighty votes out of
a total registration of two hundred and seventy-four. In this elec-
tion seventy-five freeholders voted; sixty-one for the subscription
and fourteen against it.
The Council thereupon subscribed $20,000 to said railroad com-
pany, John A. Buchanan, George E. Penn and W. J. Brown having
been appointed by the Council for that purpose on December 22d,
1887.
The question arose as to when the bonds thus subscribed tO'
said railroad should be issued, and upon this question George E.
Penn and W. J. Brown, two of the committee, recommended that
said bonds should be issued and delivered as fast as the road was
graded, at the rate of $133,331/^ per mile, while Judge Buchanan
filed a minority recommendation that said bonds be issued for the
sum mentioned as each mile of the railroad was completed, but
the majority report was adopted, and the bonds were issued and
delivered as the road was graded.
At a meeting of the Council on the 18th of August, 1888, on mo-
tion of Dr. George E. Wiley, seconded by H. H. Scott, an election
was ordered to be held on the 29th of September, 1888, to take the
sense of the voters of the town upon the question of a subscription
of a sum not exceeding $20,000, for the purpose of furnishing water
and lights for the town. In this election sixty-three votes were
poled for the proposition and fifty-seven against it, but the Council
refused to subscribe any amount to this enterprise. It was a
short time only until the town obtained the benefits of a very
efficient water and light company.
At a meeting of the Council on th© 6thi of July, 1892, upon mo-
tion of Samuel A. Carson, seconded by Colonel A. F. Cook, a
658 Southwest Vii-ginia, 17.k6-178().
committee was appointed to buy a lot in tlie town, of Abingdon,
upon which to build a Mayor's office and city prison. This com-
mittee purchased a part of a lot situated near the centre of the
town ujion the south side of the street, adjoining the I. 0. 0. F.
Hall, for the sum of $450, and immediately erected thereon a very
co'mmodious building, which has since been occupied by the officials
of the town, and in the year 1897, a house was erected upon
the same lot, in wliicli all prisoners failing to pay their fines in
money are required to break rock to satisfy the same, the rock thus
prepared being used to macadamize the streets of the town.
In the year 1900 Col. A. C. Cummings and D. S. Grim, surviv-
ing trustees of the Sons of Temperance, transferred to the to^vn
of Abingdon the title to Temperance Hall, and their action was con-
firmed shortly thereafter by the General Assembly of Virginia,
whereupon John W. Barr, H. H. Scott, J. W. Bell, D. A. Preston
and E. M. Page were named as trustees to hold said property
for the town. It is the purpose of the town to improve this
property, and, if this be done, it will be quite an addition to the
town and probably a source of revenue.
Such is a brief outline of the history of Abingdon as it has been
preserved.
In the words of another and a more gifted writer :
"If there is any more picturesque country than that which sur-
rounds Abingdon, the writer has never been so fortunate as to see
it; that is, according to his idea of the grand and beautiful in
nature. For a mile or two around, the landscape is undulating,
interspersed with bolder hills generally wooded, standing out like
islands in a storm-tossed sea. During Spring and Summer the
whole face of the earth, except cultivated fields, seems to be covered
with a carpet of green irregularly figured with wild flowers, a
rural picture with a frame-work of mountains.*
"To the south of and adjoining the corporate limits of the town,
is 'King's Mountain,' now thickly populated. It was so named
because of a fancied resemblance to the famous mountain in South
Carolina, on which was fought the battle of October 7th, 1780.
The victory won there by the western mountaineers, quorum magna
pars were Washington county men, Mr. Jefferson said, turned the
tide of war in favor of the United States and led Cornwallis to
*Charles B. Coale.
Washington County, 1177-1870. 659
march to Yorktown, t-o his surrender there, and to the end of the
war."
"There were many of the veterans of that campaign alive in 1825,
and to rehearse the incidents of the contest and imj)ress upon the
minds of that generation the gallant and daring deeds of their an-
cestors, a sham battle was fought at King's Mountain. The posi-
tion of the Eevolutionary commanders was occupied by some offi-
cers who were instructed (perhaps drilled,) how to play their part,
and the English people in red coats, with cannon and bayonetted
muskets, occupied the crest of the hill. There was great firing of
blank cartridges, charging up the hill and retreat from the fixed
bayonets of the British regulars, until Colonel Ferguson was killed
and a white flag raised. In all of this melee nO' fatal accidents oc-
curred and few casualties."*
To the north and northwest of the corporate limits of the town
is Fruit Hill, commonly called "Taylor's Hill," which is thickly
settled, and it is reasonable to say that at least one-third of the
inhabitants of the town proper are without the corporate limits.
The main street of Abingdon of the present day is fully one
mile in length. The streets are excellently macadamized, with
brick pavements on both sides.
Valley street is more than one-half mile in length, a part of the
street being macadamized, and brick pavements are on the eastern
end thereof. This street is rapidly developing and is destined to be-
come the main thoroughfare of the town.
It would be a considerable undertaking to enumerate the many
and varied enterprises of the town.
The chief pride of Abingdon are her educational facilities, there
being three institutions in and near the town that cannot bo
excelled anywhere in this country, to-wit: Martha Washington
College, Stonewall Jackson Institute and the Abingdon Male
Academy, to each of which a separate chapter has been devoted.
Mayors of Abingdon.
1834-1835— John M. Preston.
1836 —James White.
1837 —Samuel H. Wills.
1838 —Daniel LATich.
*Thomas L. Preston.
(560 Southivest Virginia, 1746-1786.
1839 — Andrew Gibson.
1840-1841 — Jeremiah Bronougli.
1843 —John M. Preston.
1843-1844— John D. Mitchell.
1845 — Isaac B. Dunn.
1846 —Daniel Trigg.
1847 —John D. Mitchell.
1848 — James W. Preston.
1849 —John D. Mitchell.
1850 — James H. Dunn.
1851 — John G. Kreger.
1853 —William Ptodefer.
1853-1854— John D. Mitchell.
1855 — Lewellyn C. Newland.
1856 —David G. Thomas.
1857-1858— Jolm D. Mitchell. Died March 15, 1859
1859 — Wm. Eodefer. Unexpired term.
1859 — ISfewton K. White.
1860-1861— Samuel W. Carnahan.
1863-1864— W. F. Barr.
186.5-1866— Geo. E. B. Dunn.
1869 — W. H. Smith.
1870 — D. A. Jones.
1873 — Jas. C. Campbell.
1873 — G. V. Litckfield, Jr.
1874 —John G. Clark.
1875 —David P. Sandoe.
1876 —Milton G. Heiskell.
1877 —John G. Clark.
18,78-1879— Milton G. Heiskell.
1880-1881— D. P. Sandoe.
1883-1887— John W. Barr.
1888 —Thomas K. Trigg.
1888-1889— John W. Barr.
1889-1890— P. C. Landrum.
1893-1904— J. H. Hines.
Treasurers and Clerics.
1884-1887— Geo. Keller. 1855-1884— Geo. E. Barr.
1834-1855— Jacob Lynch.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
661
Clerks.
1887-1893— Geo. E. Barr. 1894-1896— D. T. Campbell.
1892-1894l^C. H. Jennings. 1896-1900— W. A. Johnston.
1900-1904— W. H. Hamilton.
1887-1896— Geo. Keller.
Treasurers.
1896-1904— D. A. Preston.
Sergeants.
1834 —Jacob Clark. 1860
1835 — Wm. N. Euley. 1873
1836 —John W. Leckie. 1873
1837-1839— L. C. Price. 1874
1840-1841— Job Clark. 1875
1843-1843— M. C. Orr. 1876
1844-1845— W. N. Euley. 1877
1846 —Samuel Garner. 1878
1847-1848— James Leccly. 1879
1849 —Samuel Garner. 1880-
1850 —James Leedy. 1883
1851 — Lewellyn C. Newland. 1883
1852-1856— Jos. A. Brownlow. 1884-
1856-1858— James Henritze. 1890
1859 — W. W. Barker. 1893-
— B. C. Clark.
— Theo. P. Dunn.
— Isaac DeBusk.
— S. G. Keller.
—Geo. W. Oswald.
— E. H. Henritze.
—J. H. Hines.
— E. H. Henritze.
— J. E. Deadmore.
1881— B. P. Morrison.
— F. B. Brownlow.
— John W. Love.
1890— W. T. Graham.
—Geo. A. Hall.
1904— T. H. Crabtree.
Abingdon^ Virginia.
*Trmtees— 17.78-1834:.
Date of Qualification.
177 8 — James Armstrong.
1808— Valentine Baugh.
1830— Peter J. Branch.
1778— William Campbell.
1778— Eobert Craig.
1778— Eobert Campbell.
1808— David Campbell.
1833— Chas. C. Gibson.
1808— Michael Deckard.
1808-
1778-
1833-
1808-
1808-
1808-
1830-
1830-
1808-
-Eobert Dukes.
-William Edmiston.
-Thomas Findlay.
-James Graham.
-James Harper.
-William King.
-Jacob Lynch.
-Daniel Lynch.
-John McClelland.
*Many of the trustees named served for many years.
I
662
Southwest Virginia, 17-^6-1786.
1830— Elias Ogden.
1830 — Augustus Oury.
1778— Eobert Preston.
1830— John M. Presix)n.
1830 — Francis Preston.
1833— J. W. Paxton.
1778—
1798 — Andrew Russell.
1778 — Daniel Smith.
1778— Evan Shelby.
1808 — Jonathan Smith.
1808— William Trigg.
1808— James White.
Andrew Willoughby.
*Memhcrs of Toivn CotmdZ- 1834-1902.
Date of Qualification.
1834-
1834-
183(5-
1837-
1834-
1846-
1847-
1851-
1855-
1858-
1859-
1860-
1865-
1870-
1876-
1876-
1876-
1880-^
1881-
1890-
1890-
1892-
1894-
1894-
1900-
1855-
1836-
1838-
1843-
1850-
1856-
1856-
— Peter J. Branch.
—Jeremiah Bronough.
—Daniel M. Bailey.
—Austin Bronough.
-Chas. S. Bekem.
— B. K. Buchanan.
-G'eo. R. Barr.
-Leonidas Baugh.
-Isaac Baker.
-Wm. W. Barker.
-Jos. C. Baltzell.
-Isaac M. Benham.
-W. P. Barr.
-John W. Barr.
-John A. Buchanan.
-A. McBradley.
-H. C. Brownlow.
-Thomas Brooks.
-Frank B. Brownlow.
-Wm. H. Barrow.
-Geo. M. Bright.
-John A. Barrow.
-J. W. Bell.
-R. E. Boiling.
-J. K. Buckley.
-Isaac L. Clark.
-David Campbell.
-John C. Cummings.
-Chas. J. Cummings.
-JSTorman Crawford.
-E. M. Campbell.
-D. C. Cummings.
1856— John C. Campbell.
1858— S. W. Carnahan.
1860— John A. Campbell.
1865— John G. Clark.
1866 — James C. Campbell.
1876— C. F. Trigg.
1881— L. T. Cosby.
1884— A. W. Carmack.
1885— A. F. Cook.
1886—1. G. Clark.
1887— Thomas H. Crabtree.
1892— Samuel A. Carson.
1836— John Dunn.
1844—1. B. Dunn.
1845 — Edwin L. Davenport.
1853 — Hiram S. Dooley.
1854— D. C. Dunn.
1855 — Andrew J. Dunn.
1855 — James H. Dunn.
1870— Geo. R. Dunn.
1896— J. E. Deaton.
1834— Benj. Estill.
1843— John B. Floyd.
1835— John H. Fulton.
1839— Edward Fulton.
1845 — James Fulcher.
1837— Andrew Gibson.
1842— C. C. Gibson.
1843 — John C. Greenway.
*Many of the persons named served for many years in succession.
Woshington Couniy, 1777-1S70.
663
1846-
— James K. Gibson.
1878-
-S. G. Keller. -
1853-
-H. C. Gibbons.
1894-
— E. B. Kreger.
1856-
—J. C. Greenway.
1870-
— D. C. Greenway.
1834-
—Daniel Lynch,
1876-
-W. T. Graham.'
1836-
—Jacob Lynch.
1838-
—Samuel Logan.
1835-
—Adam Hickman.
1844-
-Geo. V. Litchfield, Sr.
1852-
— Wm. Hawkins.
1847-
-H. M. Ledbetter.
1854-
-W. K. Heiskell.
1856-
-W. J. Leedy.
1860-
-M. G. Heiskell.
1866-
—Daniel Ijewark.
1864-
-E. M. Hickman.
1872-
-Geo. V. Litchfield, Jr,
1866-
-John A. Hagy.
1872-
— Wm. G. G. Lowry.
1876-
-S. jST. Honak'er.
1877-
-Paul C. Landrum.
1880-
-J. H. Hines.
1892-
—John E. Lyon.
1880-
-Jas. A. Hagy.
1881-
-Chas. Harris.
1834-
-John D. Mitchell.
1882-
-E. A. Hines.
1851-
-T. G. McConnell.
1882-
-M. H. Honaker.
1856-
-Noble I. McGinnis.
1885-
-S. F. Hurt.
1866-
-Samuel D. Meek.
1885-
-F. B. Hntton.
1870-
-Benj. P. Morrison.
1885-
-J. B. Hamilton.
1878-
-Daniel Musser.
1889-
-E. S. Haney.
1887-
-Samuel Mothner.
1894-
-P. M. Hagy.
1894-
-P. E. Hayter.
1834-
-Augustus Oury.
1896-
-Wm. Hagv.
1836-
-Elias Ogden.
1898-
-C. F. Hurt.
1838-
—James Orr.
1849-
-Peter E. B. C. Henritze.
1850-
-Abram S. Orr.
1860-
-Jas. Henritze.
1878-
-W. C. Hagy.
1834-
-John S. Preston.
1835-
-John N". Humes.
1834-
-Eobert E. Preston.
1887-
-W. B. Ingham.
1836-
-John M. Preston.
1836-
-James W. Paxton.
1840-
-Peter C. Johnston.
1838-
-Alexander E. Preston.
1843-
-Beverly E. Johnston.
1838-
-Fairman H. Preston.
1855-
-Hugh Johnston.
1850-
-Walter Preston.
1860-
-John W. Johnston.
1859-
-Samuel A. Preston.
1872-
-James M. Jones.
1866-
-W. H. Pitts.
1874—1. Frank Jones.
1870-
-E. M. Page.
1879-
-J. N. Jordan.
1875-
-Henry S. Preston.
1888-
-D. A. Jones.
1884-
-Geo. E. Penn.
1896-
-Chas. H. Jennings.
1900-
-W. A. Johnson.
1846-
-Wm. Eodefer.
1846-
-Philip Ehor.
1834-
-John Keller.
1876-
-Jackson M. Eose.
1846-
-Wm. Keller.
1889-
-David 0. Eush.
1860-
-John G. Kreger.
1896-
-Wm. F. Eoberson.
1875-
-Martin H. Keller.
1896-
-David G. Eose.
664 Southwest Virginia, 17 46-17 S6.
1836— Michael Shaver. 1858— David G-. Thomas.
1850— Gabriel Stickley. 1873— Thos. K. Trigg.
1852— Thomas S. Stuart. 1880— Daniel Trigg, Jr.
1870— Wm. M. G. Sandoe.
1874— David P. Sandoe. 1836— Samuel H. L. Wills.
1886— H. H. Scott. 1838— Thomas J. Wallis.
1896— Sol. L. Scott.. 1851— Newton K. White.
1872— John G. White.
1834— Daniel Trigg. 1872— James L. White.
1835— Connally F. Trigg. 1887— Geo. E. Wiley.
1845— Francis S. Trigg. 1888— David J. Webb.
Postmasters at Ahingdon.
Date of Appointment.
Gerrald T. Conn, April 25, 1793.
George Simpson, July 1, 1796.
John W. McCormack, October 1, 1800.
John McClellan, October 1, 1813.
Augustus Oury, August 28, 1820.
Eobert R. Preston, July 9, 1836.
James K. Gibson, January 4, 1842.
George R. Barr, July 26, 1849.
Leonidas Baugh, May 12, 1853.
Henry W. Baker, October 18, 1858.
George Sandoe, March 27, 1861.
W. M. G. Sandoe, September 6, 1865.
Jackson M. Rose, May 31, 1869.
Lewis W. Rose, June 25, 1878.
Rosalie S. Humes, March 1, 1879.
Jackson M. Rose, March 2, 1883.
Connally T. Litchfield, March 7, 1887.
Lewis P. Summers, March 20, 1890.
Jobn G. White, January 12, 1894.
James W. McBroom, February 18, 1898.
Rosa Rose, February 10, 1902.
Lots Sold by Christopher AcMiti.
Name of Purchaser. Date of Sale. No. Lot.
Alexander Montgomery, June, 1787, 23
Jo. Acklm, " 1787, 22
Christopher Acklin, " 1787, 21
Washington County, 1777-1870. 665
Name of Purchaser. Date of Sale. No. Lot.
Joseph Black, June, 1787, 15
John Thomas, " 1787 16
Andrew Davison, "1787 17
Joseph Campbell, " 1787, 18
Henry Harkleroad, " 1787, 20
Henry Harkleroad, " 1787, 19
Devault Keller, " 178,7 38
Alexander Montgomery, " 1787 37
James Vance, July, 1787, 32
Josiah Danforth, "1787 5
Jacob Wills, <• g 1737 4
James Porterfield, "1787 7 ^
George Findlay, " 1787, 31
Edward Callahan, " 1787, 6
James Parberry, ~ April, 1789, 34-35-36
Walter Welsh, « 1789, l
James Bradley, « 1.789, 2
Geo. Colvill, « 1789, 3
Thomas Welsh, " 1789, 33
Alexander Breckenridge, " 1789 28
Charles Cummings, " 1789, 14
Eobert Campbell, *' 1789, 43
Nancy McDonald, " 1789, 44
Samuel Acklin, « 1789 51
Eobert Campbell, " 1789, 45
Elijah Smith, April, 1789, 50
Eobert Campbell, " 1789, 43
Elijah Smith, « 1789, 49
James Vance, « 1789, 42
William Brice, " 1789 41
Jolm Lusk, « 1789, 52
Jos. Gamble, June, 1789, 61
Eobert Laird, « 1789, 62
Jos. Gamble, « 1789, 60
John Fegan, April 14, 1790, 59
Patrick Lynch, ? " 14, 1790, 58
James Bradley, " I79O 57
Claiborne Watkins, " 15, 1790, 81
666
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Lime of Purchaser.
Date of Sale.
No. Lot.
Claiborne Watkins,
April
L
1790,
82
Patrick Lynch,
1790,
63
Chas. Cummings,
1790,
66
Archilas Dickenson,
1790,
65
Chas. Cummings,
1790,
64
Andrew Colvill,
1790,
80
Andrew Colvill,
1790,
79
Claiborne Watkins,
1790,
83
William Greenwa}',
17;
, 1790,
84
Eobert Montgomery,
. 1790,
86
William Greenway,
1790,
85
Christopher Acklin,
1790,
29
Urbin Ewing,
1790,
6
Josiah Danforth,
September
, 1790,
58
Nicholas Mansfield,
June,
, 1790,
39
Urbin Ewing,
1790,
40
Nicholas Mansfield,
1790,
20
Daniel Friel,
1790,
19
Trustees,
1790,
8
William Brice,
1790,
12
Baldwin Harles,
1790,
16
Alexander Montgomery, April,
1791,
90
Samuel Vance,
((
1791,
89
Wm. McDowell,
iC
1791,
67
Andrew Willoughby,
il
1791,
87
Jos. Acklin,
C(
1791,
69
Christopher Acklin,
u
1791,
68
Jos. Acklin,
ii
1791,
70
Jolm Alexander,
ii
1791,
71
Wm. Mifflins.
a
1791,
72
James Bredin,
a
1,791,
74
James Dysart,
«
1791,
78
John Alexander,
a
1791,
77
Wm. Delap,
a
1791,
76
Wm. Delap,
u
1791,
75
Thos. Hammond,
a
1791,
73
Wm. King,
li
1791,
73
Pobert Preston,
a
1791,
73
Date oi
' Sale.
No.
. Lot.
April,
1791,
11
1791,
15
1791,
13
1791,
14
1791,
17
1791,
18
Washington County, 1717-1870. 667
JSTame of Purchaser.
James Dysart,
Wm. Y. Conn,
Andrew Russell,
Eobert Preston,
James White,
Gerrald T. Conn,
Andrew Enssell,
Jos. Acklin,
Francis Preston,
Geo. Simpson,
Andrew Russell,
Geo. Simpson,
Cliristoplier Acklin,
Jos. Acklin,
Lands sold by David Craig.
James Eedpath.
Jeremiah Rush,
Peter Dcckart.
An Act for EstahJishing a Toirn at flic Courthouse in tJie Counlij
of Washi^igton.
Passed October, 1778.
"Whereas it hath been represented to this present general assem-
bly that Thomas Walker, Esq., Joseph Black and Samuel Briggs
have engaged to give one hundred and twenty acres of land in the
county of Washington, where the court house of the said county now
stands, agreeal^le to a survey thereof made by Robert Doach, for the
purpose of estal)lishing a town thereon, and for raising a sum of
money towards defraying the expenses of building a court house and
prison, agreeable to which part of the said land has been laid off,
and several lots sold, and buildings erected thereon ; and whereas it
would tend to the more speedy improvement and settling the same,
if the freeholders and inhabitants thereof could l)e entitled to the
same privileges enjoyed by freeholders and inhabitants of other
towns of this state, Be. it Enacted By tliis Present General Assem-
bly, That the said one hundred and twenty acres of land, agreeable
to a survey made thereof, relation thereto being had may more fully
appear, be and the samo is hereby vested in fee simple in Evan
668 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
Shelby, William Campbell, Daniel Smith, William Edmondson,
Ilobert Craig and Andrew Willonghby, gentlemen, trnstees and
shall be established a tcnvn by the name of Abingdon.
"And be it further enacted. That the said trustees, or any three of
them, shall, and they are hereby empowered to make conveyances to
the purchasers of any lots already sold, or to^ be sold, agree able to
the conditions of the contracts, and may also proceed to lay off such,
other part of said land as is not yet laid off and sold, into' lots, and
streets and such lots shall be sold by the said trustees at publick
auction for the best price that can be had, the time and place of sale
being previously advertised at least three months before, on some
court day at the court house of that and the adjacent county, the
purchasers respectively to bold tlie said lots subject to the condition
of building on such lots a dwelling house at least twenty feet long
and sixteen feet wide, with a brick or stone chimney, to bo finished
within four years from the date of sale, and the said trustees, or any
three of them, shall, and they are hereby empowered to convey the
said lots to the purchasers thereof in fee simple, siibject to the con-
dition aforesaid, and receive the monies arising from such sale, and
pay the same to the order of the Court of Washington County, to-
wards defraying the expenses of their publick buildings, and the
over-plus, if any, to be applied in repairing the streets of the afore-
said town.
"And be it further enacted, That the said trustees, or the major
part of them, shall have power from time to time to settle and de-
termine all disputes concerning the bounds of said lots, and to
settle such rules and orders for the regular and orderly buildings
of houses thereon as to them shall seem best and most convenient.
And in case of the death, removal out of the country, or other legal
disability of any of the said trustees, it shall and may be lawful for
the freeholders of the said town to elect and chose so many other
persons in the room of those dead, removed or disabled, as shall
make up the number, which trustees so chosen shall be to all intents
and purposes individually vested with the same power and authority
as any one in this act particularly mentioned.
"And be it further enacted, That the purchasers of the lots in the
said town, so soon as they shall have built upon and saved the same
according to the conditions of their respective deeds and convers-
ances. sliall.be entitled to and have and enjoy all the rights, pi-ivi-
WasUngton County, 1777-1870. 669
leges and imiimnities which the freeholders and inhabitants of
other towns in this state, not corporated by charter, have, hold and
enjoy.
"And be it further enacted, That if the purchasers of any lots sold
by the said trustees shall fail to build thereon within the time before
limited, the said trustees, or the major part of them, may thereupon
enter into such lot, and may either, sell the same again, and apply
thig money towards repairing the streets, or in any other way for the
l^enefit of the said town, or they may appropriate the said lot, or any
part of it, to any publick use for the benefit of the inhabitants of
said town.
"^And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, that the
trustees of the said town, and their successors, for the time being,
shall, and they are hereby authorized and empowered by that name
to sue and implead either in the court of the said county, or the
general Court, any person or persons who shall commit a trespass
on the streets of said town, or lands which may have been appro-
priated for the use of the inhabitants thereof. All sums of money
recovered by virtue hereof shall be applied by the said ti'ustees
towards repairing the streets of the said town.
"Provided, always. That nothing herein contained shall be con-
strued to affect the legal rights of any person holding lands adjoin-
ing the said town."*
BEISTOL, YIEGINIA.
It is with delicacy that we undertake to write of a locality that at
the present time is attracting the attention of a considerable part of
the business world and that is destined to become a great city.
There has been something in the location of Bristol that attracted
the attention of the early explorers of our country, and afterwards
many of our best and noblest citizens.
Some time after Colonel James Patton had obtained from the
(lovernor and Council of Virginia a grant for one hundred and
twenty thousand acres of land to be located in this section of Vir-
ginia, John B-uchanan, a deputy surveyor of Augusta county, with a
company of explorers, visited this section of Virginia and from the
*9 Hen. S., p. 55.
Bristol, 1850.
Bristol, 1903.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 671
year 1746 to the year 1750 surveyed made tracts of the choicest land
to be found on all the waters of the Indian river.*
Among the lands surveyed by John Buchanan were three tracts in
the immediate vicinity of Bristol.
The three tracts in question were surveyed for John Taylor^ of
Caroline county, Virginia, and are described as follows :
1,946 acres. Shallow Creek, f waters of Indian river.
1,000 acres. Shallow Creek, waters of Indian river.
730 acres. Shallow Creek, waters of Indian river.
The first tract was surveyed on the 22d of February, 1749, and to
it was given the name of "Sapling Grove" ; the second tract was sur-
veyed on the 23d of February, 1749, and to it was given the name of
"Timber Grove," while the third tract was surveyed on the 19th of
March, 1749, and was given the name of the "Forks."
From this time until about the year 1765, the close of the French-
Indian war, no efforts Avere made to settle the lands in question, so
far as can be ascertained.
In the year 1765, or, shortly thereafter, Evan Shelby and Isaac
Baker left their homes in Maryland* and came to the Holston coun-
try, and soon thereafter pni'chascd the "Sapling Grove" tract of
1,946 acres from John Buclianan, who, by assignment from John
Taylor, had become the owner thereof. This tract of land was
divided between Shelby and Baker by Eobert Preston, Shelby own-
ing 973 acres, the western end thereof, and Baker 973 acres, the
eastern end thereof.
Soon after the purchase Evan Shelby erected his residence upon
the lots now occupied by Dr. John Ensor and John H. Caldwell,
in South Bristol, while Isaac Baker erected his residence on Beaver
Creek, about 300 yards north of the present residence of A. A. Hob-
son and north of the creek. The location of his residence is pointed
out at the present time in an old field in which stand a few apple
trees.
John Buchanan died before a patent issued for said land and
before he had executed a deed for same to Shelby and Baker, and
William Preston and William Campbell, the executoi*s of John
*Now Holston.
fBeaver Creek.
J Now Washington county, Md.
673 Southivcst Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
Buchanan, for some reason, did not convey said land during their
lifetime.
Colonel William Preston, by his will, appointed John Preston,
Francis Preston, John Breckenridge and John Brown his execu-
tors, and on the 2d of May, 1796, John Preston, one of tlie executors
of William Preston, executor of John Buchanan, deceased, executed
a deed to Isaac Baker, Jr., for the 973 acres of land contracted to his
father, Isaac Baker, deceased, and on the 22d of November, 1798,
Francis Preston, one of the executors of William Preston, executor
of John Buchanan, deceased, conveyed to Isaac Shell)y, as executor
of Evan Shelby, deceased, the 973 acres of land contracted to Evan
Shelby by Jolm Buchanan. The consideration paid by Isaac Baker
was 304 pounds, and by Evan Shelby 304 pounds. This 1,946-acre
tract of land was patented to William Preston and William Camp-
bell, executors of John Buchanan, deceased, on the 2d of November,
1,779.
Evan Shelby and Isaac Baker were intimate friends before their
emigration to the Holston, as evidenced by the fact that Shelby had
named one of his sons Isaac for Isaac Baker, while Baker had
named one of his sons Evan for Evan Shelby. Isaac Shelby won dis-
tinction at King's mountain and was several times Governor of Ken-
tucky, while Evan Baker took an active part in the cause of the
Colonies and served during the Eevolutionary war as deputy com-
missary on the waters of the Holston.
Isaac Baker by his will devised his moiety in the "Sapling Gro've"
tract of land to his sons, Isaac Baker, Jr., and William Baker.
Evan Shelby and Isaac Baker, in their lifetime, conveyed small
portions of their respective properties to Henry Harkleroad, William
Bolton and John O'Brian.
It is worthy of mention at this point that Evan Shelby and Isaac
Baker, in their old age, were bereft of their wives, and subsequently
remarried — the former, Isabella Elliott ; the latter, Mary Head, a
3'oung widow — and each was required by his prospective wife to
make a settlement upon her before marriage, Evan Shelby con-
ferring upon his second wife a considerable interest in his personal
property, which was large, and of which a considerable number of
slaves formed a part, and in his real estate at "Sapling Grove," while
Jsaac Baker made a similar provision for his second wife, and in
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 673
addition thereto conve3'ed to the two sons of Mary Head by her for-
mer marriage one hundred acres of land each.
Stirring scenes were often witnessed in the "Sapling Grove" com-
munity from the date of the settlement made by Shelby and Baker
until the year 1800. The armies of the State and large delegations
of Indians were many times visitors to ttiis co'mmunity.
Colonel Evan Shelby was one of the great men produced by the
conditions existing upon the frontiers in those days. He was well
educated^ patriotic and a very wise counsellor, and many times did
he command expeditions against the Indian tribes living south of
the Tennessee.
The Virginia Government greatly appreciated his worth, and
prior to 1781 conferred upon him numerous (very valuable) tracts
of land within her territory, and subsequent to 1781 the Govern-
ment of North Carolina showered upon him every honor that could
b© thought of.
Colonel Shelby departed tliis life in the year 1794, leaving Isaac
Shelby, Moses Shelby, Evan Shelby and James Shelby, sons, and
several daughters.
His remains were interred in a grove of very fine trees and within
view of his former residence, and remained there until the growth
of Bristol required their removal to the present cemetery. The lo-
cation of liis grave previous to this removal is now pointed out as
being on Fifth street immediately in front of the First Presbyterian
church, Bristol, Tennessee. Isaac Baker was buried in this same
graveyard.
Isaac Baker, Sr,, at the time of his death, left six sons, to-wit:
William Baker, Isaac Baker, Joshua Baker, Evan Baker, John
Baker and Thomas Baker and several daughters, to-wit: Hatchy
Baker, Susannah, who married Thomas Worley, Mary, who married
Thomas Van Swearingen and Catharine, who married Ephraim
Smith.
William Baker, who obtained an interest in the "Sapling Grove"
by the will of his father, removed to Knox county, Tennessee, and
on tlie 10th of September, 1799, conveyed his interest in said land,
being three hundred and forty-eight acres, to John Goodson, for the
sum of $3,000, and this tract of land afterwards became the
property of Colonel Samuel E. Goodson, and the location of a large
part of East Bristol.
074 Southwest Virginia, 17.!f6-17S6.
Isaac Baker^, Jr., conveyed part of the lands devised to him by his
father to William Bolton, Solomon Sell, Henry Harkleroad, David
Worley, John Cornett, Ephraim Jolmson, John Cuff, Simeon Ely
and Jacob Susong, while Colonel Isaac Shelby, as executor of Evan
Shelby, conveyed the lands owned by Evan Shelby at ''Sapling
Grove" to James King, Jr., on the 2Gth of November, 1814, for the
sum ol $10,000. James King, immediately after his purchase, built
a residence on Solar Hill, near Sullins College and near the present
location of the late residence of H. E. McCoy, while the former
residence of Isaac Baker was occupied Ijy John Goodson.
Some. years previously to this an iron furnace was built on Beaver
Creek about three and a half miles below the present location of
Bristol at the Sulphur Springs. James King and John Goodson
for many j'cars exercised great diligence in farming their respective
properties, and persons now living often speak of King's Meadows
as a beautiful farm.
In the year 18-12, James King conveyed six acres of the "Sapling
Grove" tract to Campbell Galliher, and on the 18th ef June he con-
veyed to the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad Company, in addition
to an eighty-foot right of way, ten acres of land for the use of the
company, and on the 13th of April, 1854, he conveyed to his son-in-
law, Joseph Anderson, four acres of land.
By the year 1850 the building of the Virginia and Tennessee rail-
road had become an assured fact, and in view of the fact that the
terminus of that road under the A^irginia charter was the State line,
the building of a town at this point was begun.
Colonel Samuel E. Goodson had a part of his lands surveyed, and
offered the same for sale. He gave to the proposed town the name
of ^'Goodsonville," which name it retained until the incorporation
of Goodson in the year 1856.
He also gave to the Virginia and Tennessee Eailroad Company a
right of way through his lands, and transferred to the said company
for a consideration, in the years 1851-1852, eleven acres of land for
the use of the said company. Among the first conveyances executed
by Colonel Goodson was to John G. King, Jacob H. Susong and
J. P. Hammer, as trustees for the Independent Order of Odd-Fel-
lows, and to John Fleming, John Moore, Fleming Crumbly, D. W.
Crumbly, W. W. James, William F. Bolton, Wm. H. Snodgrass,
Washington County, 1777-1870. 675
Jesse Aydlott and Hardy Pool, as trustees for the Methodist Epis-
copal church.
The lot last conveyed was Lot No. 103 in the plan of Goodson-
ville, as surveyed by Edmund Winston, and this lot is now occupied
by the Colored Methodist Episcopal church on Lee street.
Some time previous to the 1st of April, 1855, A. K. Moore, from
Pennsylvania, arrived in Bristol and decided to make it his home,
and ever thereafter until his death, in the year 1863, he was a most
enthusiastic believer in the future of Bristol. He was a real estate
agent by profession and an accomplished gentleman, and his views
in regard to the future of Bristol were so convincing that the early
settlers of the town were confident that it was a question of only a
few years wdien Bristol would monopolize the trade and business of
all the surrounding country. And having this object in view, the
projectors of the town so named the streets thereof that by the year
1860 we find the principal streets having the following names : Vir-
ginia street, in honor of the Commonwealth ; Washington street, in
honor of Washington county; Russell street, in honor of Eussell
county ; Lee street, in honor of Lee county ; Scott street, in honor of
Scott county ; Cumberland street, in honor of the mountain of that
name; while ]\Ioore street. King street, Shelby street and Spencer
street were named for James King, A. K. Moore, Evan Shelby and
Geo. M. Spencer, and Edmund street in honor of Edmund Win-
ston, who first surveyed the lots and streets of the town.'
In the year 1855 the Magnolia House was built upon the location
of the present Hamilton House, and a number of small houses were
erected on both sides of Main street. James King about this time
moved from his resid'ence on Solar Hill to liis home in South Bris-
tol, where he subsequently died in 1867, and his former home on
Solar Hill was occupied and used as a boarding house and as an
office by Dr. J. P. Hammer and Walter Willoughby.
A storehouse and hotel were built at the corner of Washington
and Main streets on the corner now owned by John E. Dickey, and
was occupied by Wilson & Loyd, merchants, and the hotel was con-
ducted by J. H. Everett.
Jos. E. Anderson occupied the brick building on the southwest
corner of Main and Fourth streets, and conducted a store therein.
In the fall of the year 1855 it was found necessary to have local
government in the town, and all the citizens of Bristol, Tennessee,
G76 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
and Goodson, Virginia, were called to meet upon the present loca-
tion of the St. Lawrence Hotel, and at this meeting the Rev. James
King presided. The meeting decided that it was necessary that the
town should have local government, and after petitioning the Gen-
eral Assembly of Virginia to incorporate the town of Goodson, they
proceeded to select one of their number to act as Mayor until a
charter could be obtained. William L. Rice, a citizen of Goodson
and at that time a member of the Count}' Court of Washington
county, and having the power in that capacity to administer oaths,
to issue warrants for, and ti-y, offenders against the law, was selected
by the meeting to act as Mayor, tax collector and sergeant of the
town.
Pursuant to tliis authority, Mr. Rice proceeded to discharge his
duties, and wishes the fact to be recorded that V. Keebler was the
first man in the town to voluntarily pay one dollar to be used in
discharging the costs of the government thus organized.
Pursuant to the petition of the citizens of the two towns, the
General Assembly of Virginia, on the 5th of March, 1856, incor-
porated the town of Goodson, and directed that the officers of the
said town should consist of seven trustees and a sergeant, and their
term of office was fixed at one year and until their successors were
appointed, and it was directed that an election should be held for
the selection of the trustees and sergeant therein provided for on the
first Saturday in April, 1856, and James Fields, John N. Bosang
and A. T. Wilson, or any two of them, were directed to conduct said
election.
It will be observed that this Act contemplated the government of
the town by a Board of Trustees, and nothing was said as to^ a Mayor,
but the citizens of the town thereafter selected a Mayor until the
charter of the town was amended, among the number thus selected
being A. K. Moore, A. M. Appling, William L. Rice, Philip Rohr
and others, whose names I have been unable to obtain.
The persons thus selected to act in the capacity of Mayor also
acted as sergeant of the town.
It is a matter of regret that no record has been preserved of the
early trustees of the town of Goodson.
The boundaries of the town of Goodson, as set out in the Act of
incorporation, were as follows : Beginning at a sycamore tree on the
west side of the said town; running thence north 32 east one hun-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 677
dred and ten poles; thence due east one hundred and fifty poles;
thence due south 22 east one hundred and forty poles ; thence south
56 west one hundred poles; thence north 37 west one hundred and
fifty poles to the beginning.
The sycamore tree mentioned in this Act stood about two feet
south of the middle of Main street, and in front of the storehouse
formerly occupied by T. F. Wood.
The Virginia and Tennessee railroad reached Bristol in the fall
of the year 1856, and at the time the following merchants were
doing business in the town, to-wit : Seneker & James, on Main street
between Fourth and Water streets at the place now occupied by
Bunn's store; Jos. E. Anderson, at the comer of Fourth and Main
streets, as before described ; Eosenheim Bros., on southwest corner of
Main and Fifth streets, the present location of the drug store;
Martin Bros., on the location of the National Bank of Bristol, and
Wilbar Bros., on the southwest corner of Main and Sixth streets;
Smith & Wilson, at the corner of Main and Washington streets, and
L. F. Johnson, in a brick building south of the Norfolk and Western
railway and near the west bank of the creek.
J, N. Bosang kept a bar-room on the lot now occupied by the
Dominion National Bank and AVilliams Walters a bar-room at the
present location of the Stanley House, and in addition thereto
whiskey was retailed at several of the stores above enumerated.
Three hotels were found in the town at that time, the Caywood
House, kept by Ezekiel Caywood, at the present location of the
Thomas House; the Magnolia House, kept by Peck & Langhorne,
at the present location of the Hamilton House, and the Virginia
House, kept by John H. Everett, at the corner of Main and Wash-
ington streets on the Dickey lot. In addition to the places named
several small houses were found along the Virginia side of Main
street from Fourth to Moore, and one brick residence on Main
street between Fourth and W^ater streets, east of Bosang's bar-room,
and knowTL as the Zimmerman House. A portion of this house is
now occupied by Col. J. B. Peters, President of the Board of Health,
as an office.
In the year 1855, upon the application of William L. Eice, the
county court of this county appointed John P. Preston, Wallace
Maxwell, Moses H. Latham, William B. Campbell, E. E. Ehea and
Jonathan T. Hanby commissioners to view a location for a road
GrS Soiitliwest Virgima, 17.k6-n86.
from the towoi of Goodson to the Jonesboro road at or near the lands
of John L. Bradley, three miles west of Abingdon. The commis-
sioners thus named made their report, and the main Bristol road was
opened in the followang year.
In December of this year the county court of this county ap-
pointed the following citizens living in the vicinity of Goodson to
patrol in the neighborhood of Goodson : Eoland T. Legard, captain,
James T. Preston, Henry A. Wilds, William A. Preston, E. L.
Brooks, Jolm P. Buchanan, Joseph Ehea, Alexander, James, and
Jacob Carmack.
In the following year Xunley & Fuqua and Booker & Trammel
were licensed to conduct business in the town of Goodson.
Early in the year 1857 a number of the citizens of Goodson and
Bristol, recognizing the importance of a newspaper, formed a joint
stock company and purchased a printing press in Philadelphia, and
in the mouth of May, 1857, began the publication of the Bristol
News. The head lines of this paper presented a very suggestive
scene. To the left of the page was placed an engine and car and to
the right was j^laced a man on horseback, the train and horseman
facing to the centre of the page. This paper was edited for a short
while by A. K. Moore, who was succeeded by J. Austin Speery.
Speery continued to edit this paper until the year 1862, in which
year ho became the editor of the Knoxville Register, and the News
was discontinued until 18C5. In 1858 Lafayette F. Johnson and
Andrew Manonie were licensed to transact business in Goodson by
the county court of Washing-ton county.
On the 10th of May, 1858, at about 1 o'clock A. M., in tlic night
time of that day, the Magnolia Hotel was destroyed by fire and
Minor Bolcr and George Ligon, free men of color, were arrested
and tried, charged with having fired said building, but were ac-
quitted .
Soon thereafter the county court of this county appointed the
following citizens to patrol in the town of Goodson : Robert B. Moore,
captain, Lucian Johnson, J. F. H. Ledbetter, Edward Johnson,
John C. Carner, Samuel G. Booker, Hardy Pool, John Hammit,
James Williams and Joseph Barnes.
About this time two lawyers came to Bristol and decided to make
it their future home, John S. Mosby* and Oideon Bui-kett,
*The since celebrated Colonel John S. Mosby.
Washington Coiniiy, 1777-1S70. G79
Burkett located on the Tennessee side of the town and had his oflEice
in the frame huihling that stood ii[)on the lot occnpied by Kosen-
heim Bros., while j\[osby settled on the Virginia side and had his
office in a bnilding, owned by James King, that stood upon the lot
now occupied by the Tip-Top Kestaiirant, at the corner of Cumber-
land and Fourth streets.
Bristol, Virginia, should be proud of the fact that her first lawyer
afterwards distinguished hiiuself in the defence of his State.
In the year 1859 Eaine & Megginson, Jos. W. Jones, Lafayette
F. Johnson and Eaine & Jamison were licensed to transact busi-
ness in the town of Goodson, and John S. Mosby qualified as a
notary public.
By the year 18G0 Col. Goodson had sold and transferred lots in
the town of Goodson to the following citizens : Eeuben H. Crabtree,
J. N. Bosang, Thos. E. Bibb, Morgan & Thomas, James H. John-
son, J. C. Hayter, Samuel Sells, John B. Wagoner, M. T. & James
W. Morgan, Jane G. Wilds, Thos. Lanahan, Stephen Connelly,
A. T. Wilson, Ella Shelor, Sarah A. Howard, Henry Eosenheim,
David Eust, John OBrian, Elijali Coman, John Ehea, George M.
Spencer, Mary A. Hammit, David P. Jamison, Alex. Morgan, James
Johnston, H. D. Shell, I. IST. McQuown, Thos. J. Morrison, Wni.
Eencher (colored barber), John Dulaney, Cordle Harmeling, L. F.
Johnston, W. E. Eakin, Wm. Trammel, I. B. Dunn, S. H. Milliard,
James A. Apling, D. J. Ensor, and many others.
The Eev. James King had sold to' David F. Scranton and Joseph
Johnston, of Savannah, Georgia, sixty-five and a half acres of land,
and they had conveyed parts thereof to W. L. j\IaA'tin, James A.
Apling, W. F. Moon, M. W. Jones, Alexander Lazenbay, Jesse
Aydlott, V. Keebler, Samuel E. l^liilijjs, Bridget Powers, Sparrel
Askew% John H. Newman, Thos. E. Lancaster, Jos. W. Jones, and
several others.
Such was Goodson, as best it can be described, at the opening of
the war between the States.
In the spring of the year 18G1 Philip Eohr was elected Mayor,
V. Keebler Eecorder and Treasurer, Campbell Gallih'er, Sergeant,
and J. IST. Bosang, J. E. Pepper, John Johnston and W. H. Tram-
mel aldermen of said town, and the officers thus elected served with
but few changes until the year 1870.
Immediately upon the declaration of war a company was or-
680 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1186.
ganized at Goodson, to which was given the name of the Goodson
Rifles, of which company John F. Terry was elected captain.
This company was assigned to the Thirty-seventh Virginia Eegi-
ment, commanded by Col. Samuel V. Fulkerson, and many brave
deeds are recorded as having been performed by the members of this
company.
On the 33d of July, 1861, Campbell Galliher, Sergeant of the
toMTi of Goodson, appeared before the county court of Washington
county and represented to the court the need of firearms in said
town, whereupon the county court directed the sherifE of this
county to lend to the said Galliher, for use in the town of Goodson,
ten guns, the property of the Commonwealth.
In the month of February, 1862, Martin L. Comann and Ivev.
W. W. Neal purchased from Henry W. Baker the outfit of tlie
Abingdon Democrat, and on the 2,vth of March, 1863, the first issue
of the SoutJiern Advocate was published in the town of Goodson,
the Bristol News having passed out of existence at this time. Tlie
headline of this paper was such as to be worth recording. Between
the words Southern and Advocate, which were printed in large let-
ters, were placed the seal of the State of Virginia and the seal of
the State of Tennessee, and above tiie seals was printed in small
type "Virginia & Tennessee." From this paper I ascertain that
Jos. B. Palmer was at that time practising law in the town of
Goodson, that L. A. Womack and W. W. Nickels were the pro-
prietors of the Exchange Hotel, afterwards the Nickels House, and
that the Bank of Philippi was temporarily transacting business in
Goodson, with -L. D. Morall as president and J. W. Payne as cashier.
The Provost Marshal stationed at Bristol in the year 1863 was
Joshua H. Pitts, but he was shortly thereafter succeeded by Wil-
liam D. Gammon.
In the month of April the authorities of the Presbyterian and
Methodist churches of Bristol tendered the use of their churches to
the authorities of the Confederate States for the care of the sick
and wounded soldiers.
In 1863 a young ladies' boarding school was conducted in Bristol
by Mrs. M. M. Bailey and was continued for several years there-
after. At the same time two schools for boys were conducted in the
town the Bristol-Goodson Academy, of which Thos, D. Wal-
thall was principal, and the Bristol High School, of which Prof.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 681
H. C. JN'eal was principal. From the files of the Southern Advocate
we ascertain that W. M. Pettyjohn was conducting a general land
agency, L. M. Hall practising dentistry, and A. P. Johnston, J. F.
Parrot, M. D. Eichmond & Co., Johnston & Pile and Wilbar Bros.,
merchants, were doing business in the town.
In February, 1863, small-pox appeared in the town, causing a
great deal of uneasiness, and Philip Eohr, the Mayor of Goodson,
applied to the County Court of Washington county and was al-
lowed the sum of five hundred dollars to fight the small-pox in the
town.
In the spring of this year the Southern Advocate ceased to exist,
and the first issue of the State Line Gazette was published on the
6th of March, 1863. Martin L. Comann and Wm. L. Eice owned
and edited this paper, and afterwards W. W. Langhome, a young
lawyer who had settled in the town, was associate editor. This
paper lived about five years, and ceased to exist.
By this time Goodson contained a considerable population, and
on the 25th of May, 1863, Wm. F. Moon* petitioned the County
Court of Washington coimty for the establishment of a voting pre-
cinct in the town, which precinct was established at the storehouse
of A. M. Apling, and Wm. L. Eice was appointed conductor and
Wm. F. Moon, Malon S. Susong, Valentine Keebler, Elijah
Seneker and Hugh M. Milliard commissioners to hold all elections
in said town. In the fall of the year 1863 the Federal forces
reached Bristol and destroyed the freight depot, the brick stoTC-
house occupied by L. F. Johnston, and the Masonic Lodge. And
while the town was visited several times thereafter by the Federal
forces during th'e war, no other property was destroyed by fire.
In this year A. K. Moore was killed by Captain Lucas, of Ken-
tucky, at the Thomas House, in Bristol, Tenn.
Upon the close of the war, and in 1865, the Bristol News was
resurrected by John Slack, and the first issue of this paper appeared
on the 9 th of August, 1865.
From the files of this paper we find that Chas. E. Vance,' J. E.
Deadrick and J. B. Palmer, practising attorneys, then lived in
Bristol-Goodson.
Previous to the incorporation of Goodson by the General Assem-
bly in the year 1856, and probably as late as the year 1860, the
•Father of John A. Moon, M. C, from the Third Tennessee District.
683 Soutliivest Virginia, 1746-1786.
postoffice was "Sapling Grove/' and was at first kept in the resi-
dence of James King on now Solar Hill, and afterwards in a small
frame house on the lot now occupied by the St. Lawrence Hotel.
The postoffice was removed to the Tennessee side of the town in
1865, by order of President Johnson.
Early in the year 1866, the Eev. James King donated property
situated in South Bristol, and valued at $16,000, for the purpose of
establishing a school for young men, and to be under the manage-
ment of the Holston Presbytery. The Presbytery which met at
Leesburg, Tenn., shortly thereafter, accepted the proposition of Mr.
King and appointed a board of curators, consisting of fifteen gen-
tlemen, and this board was directed by the Presbytery to assemble
in Bristol on the 4th of July, 1866, for the purpose of organizing
the school and electing officers for the same. This school was or-
ganized, and has for many years been known as King College, one
of the best-equipped schools to be found in all this section of the
Holston country.
The Virginia and Kentucky railroad Avas undertaken, and con-
siderable work was accoanplished on said road previously to 1861, but
thte outbreak of the war caused a cessation of all work for the time ;
but interest in the building of this road was again manifested in the
year 1866, and the attention of the citizens of Goodson-Bristol to
this matter was urged by Eobert W. Hughes, president of the com-
pany, and a mass-meeting of the citizens was held in the Metho-
dist church iu Goodson in this year.
Governor Francis H. Pierpoint and the Board of Public Works
attended this meeting, and a great deal of interest was manifested.
The meeting was called tO' order by the Rev. Philip Eohr, then
Mayor of Goodson, Robert W. Hughes Avas elected chairman
and Chas. R. Vance secretary, and strong resolutions, prepared by
a committee composed of James King, John Slack and Wm. L.
Rice, were adopted, and Jos. R. Anderson, Philip Rohr and L. P.
Johnston were appointed a committee to solicit subscriptions tO' the
enterprise. The building of this railroad was begim, and, in addi-
tion to the subscriptions of private individuals, the toAvn of Good-
son, on the 13th of May, 1877, subscribed five thousand dollars to
the Bristol Coal and Iron ISTarrow-Guago Railroad Company, the
successor of the Virginia and Kentucky railroad, and to-dav this
Washington County, 1777-1870. 683
road, now called the Virginia and Southwestern, is one of the most
profitable enterprises that Bristol can boast of.
In March, 1866, the following lawyers were practising in the
to^\Ti of Goodson: W. W. Langhorne, J. B. Maclin, N". M. Taylor
and York & Fulkerson.
In the fall of this year the Bristol News was leased by John Slack
to David F. Bailey, and the first issue of the News published by
Bailey was on the 9th of August, 1867. From an inspection of this
paper we find that M. L. Blackley and W. IST. Clarkson were prac-
tising law in the town, and that the Bristol High School, under the
management of J. D. Tadlock, and a male and female school, under
the management of B. G. Maynard, were doing a thriving business.
The Bristol News was edited by D. F. Bailey, and then by Bailey
and Eamey, and on August 7th, 1868, was sold and transferred to
I. C. and Elbert Fowler.
In the year 1870 John Slack began the publication of the Bristol
Courier, and the two papers, the News and the Courier, are still pub-
lished in Bristol.
At the time of the total eclipse of the sun in the month of Au-
gust, 1869, Goodson being in the centre of tJie path of totality, the
United States Coast Survey directed Colonel E. D. Cutts, of tlie
United States Navy, to proceed to Bristol and to prepare for making
observation during the eclipse. Colonel Cutts visited Goodson and
erected an observatory on Lancaster Hill, now called Solar Hill.
The observations were taken, and the latitude of Goodson ascer-
tained to be 36° 35' 50.2", the longitude to be 5° 08' Washington
time, 20-32 fast. Afterwards, in the year 1870, the street now
known as Solar street was opened, and the observatory used by
Colonel Cutts was found to be in the centre of the proposed street,
and from that circumstance, and at the suggestion of the Mayor,
the street was called Solar street, and the hill has since b'een called
Solar Hill.
By the year 1870 Goodson had gi'own rapidly and the future of
the town was exceedingly bright, and in this year the General As-
sembly of Virginia amended the charter of the town and extended
the corporate limits, the provisions of said charter as to the limits
of said town being as follows : Beginning at the intersection of the
Virginia and Tennessee States' line and the western boundary line
of tKe town cemetery, and running west with said State line twenty-
684 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6.
two hundred yards; thence north nine hundred and fifty yards;
thence east twenty-two hundred yards on a line parallel with the
States' line ; thence south nine hundred and fifty yards to the point
of beginning. This Act provided for a mayor, five councilmen, a
recorder and sergeant, all to be elected by the vote of the people, and
directed that the election should be held for that purpose on the 2d
of July, 1870, at King Block, on Front street, and Jolin N. Bosang,
John Keys and Jesse H. Pepper were directed to superintend said
election.
The first election held under this Act resulted in the election of
the following officers :
Mayor — I. C. Fowler.
Recorder— J. T. Millard.
Sergeant — J. L. Ligon.
Councilmen — John H. Winston, President; S. L. Saul, Chas. T.
Pepper, Geo. H. DeVault and Jos. W. Owens.
At a meeting of the Mayor and Council on the 27th of July,
1870, rules and regulations were adopted by the Council for the
government of the body in their proceedings, and the foundations
were laid for an era of prosperity and gi'owth that has met the ex-
pectations of the most ardent friends of the town.
By the amended charter the Council of the town was authorized
to provide a building for the safekeeping of all persons sentenced to
imprisonment under the ordinances of the town, and, pursuant to
this authority, the Council appointed a committee to select a place
and to ascertain the cost of such a building. This committee
selected a place on Washington street, now Wagoner's planing mill,
and employed Arclicr & Carmack to erect the necessary buildings
thereon.
At a meeting of the Mayor and Council of the town on the 23d
of January, 1871, the Council requested the General Assembly of
Virginia to amend the charter of the town sO' as to increase the
Council from five to seven members, and to authorize the Council of
the town to open and extend the streets of the town, and to sub-
scribe a sum of money, not exceeding twenty-five thousand dollars,
to be used in purchasing suitable grounds within the limits of the
town for a public square, for building a town hall, and also for the
purpose of purchasing a tract of land then within the corporate
limits of the said town, the property of Joseph Johnston, and giving
Washi7igton County, 1777-1870. 685
to the Council the authority to lay otf said land, when purchased,
into lots, and dispose of the same to the best interest of the corpora-
tion, and pursuant to this petition the General Assembly of Vir-
ginia, on the 14th of Mareli, 1S71, amended the charter of Goodson
as petitioned for, except that it was provided that no subscription
should be made until the expediency thereof should be submitted to
the qualified voters in the corporation and should receive three-
fifths of the votes actually polled at said election; and it was fur-
ther provided that said property, when purchased, should be sold
by the Council, and for the purpose of improvement only.
The Council of Bristol ordered this election to be held, and the
proposition to purchase the Johnston lands received more than
three-fifths of all the votes polled, and these lands, containing about
sixty acres, were purchased by the Mayor and Council of Goodson
for the sum of eighteen thousand dollars.
On the 8th of May, 1871, I. C. Fowler, John H. Winston and
Jos. W. Owens were appointed a committee to superintend the lay-
ing off of said lands into streets and lots, and Thos. D. Walthall
was designated to survey said land. The lands when laid off into
lots were ordered to be sold, and Dr. David Sullins was the auc-
tioneer.
After the sale of these lots, and in the fall of the same year, the
lots owned by the town and the money and notes received from the
purchasers of lots previously sold amounted to $41,218, or $16,000
profit on the investment.
On the 13th of June, 1870, the General Assembly of Virginia
incorporated the Bank of Goodson, with Z. L. Burson, W. W.
James, I. C. Fowler, U. L. York and I. B. Dunn as directors. This
bank was organized and transacted business in Goodson for several
years, and was known as James' Bank.
In August of the year 18,71, while great improvements were
being projected and the Council of Goodson was transacting the
most extensive real estate business that the town has known in its
history, the Council of the city were presented with a melon by the
"Marble Players" of the town, and the present was so much appre-
ciated that the Council at its meeting on the 39th of August
adopted the following resolution :
"Resolved, That the thanks of the Council be tendered the 'Mar-
686 Southwest Virginia, 174G-1786.
ble Players' of this corporation for the present of a magnificent
melon."
In the same year a chain-gang was organized, and in the year
1S73 goats, swine and cows were prohibited from running at large
in the town.
In 1874 it was provided that wooden buildings should not be
erected in the town except upon the petition of two-thirds of the
land-owners in the square where the building was proposed to bo
erected, and from the year 1871 to 1880 most of the streets of the
town were macadamized, and in many cases extended so as to meet
the requirements of a rapidly increasing population.
In the year 1881 it was thought necessary by the Council of
Goodson to have a public building erected for the use of the officers
of the town, and the question was submitted to the vote of the peo-
ple, and having received the necessary vote, the Council appointed
John H. Winston, Z. L. Burson and W. W. James a conmiittee to
report a plan and the cost of a public building. This committee re-
ported, and a very commodious hall, built of brick, was erected
some time thereafter on the corner of CUimberland and Lee streets,
at a cost of about $7,000 to the corporation.
By the year 1890 the town of Cioodson had grown to be a cit}^,
and the inconvenience attending the transaction of the legal busi-
ness of the town at Abingdon created a public demand for the es-
tablishment of a corporation court for the city, and in answer to
this demand the General Assembly of Yirginia, on the 13th of Feb-
ruary, 1890, changed the name of the town of Goodson to that of
the city of Bristol, and adopted a now charter for said city. The
offi.cers provided for by the new charter were a mayor, treasurer,
nine councilmen, a clerk of the corporation court, an attorney for
the Commonwealth, a sergeant, one justice of the peace for each
ward in said city, and one constable. Pursuant to this Act of the
Assembly, the first C!orporatio"n Court of the city of Bristol assem-
bled in the City Hail on the 3d of March, 1890, Judge Wm. F.
Ehea presiding. The following officers were appointed by the court
for said city : Clerk, J . H. Winston, Jr. ; Commonwealth's Attor-
ney, W. S. Hamilton; Treasurer, C. C. Minor; Sergeant, Chas.
Worley; Commissioner of the Kevenue, J. W. Mort.
The court thus organized has continued until the present time
and is at this time presided over by Judge Wm. S. Stuart. The
Washington County, 1777-1870. 687
city of Bristol lias ,gro\vn rapidly and to-day it is a vei-y thrifty city,
with beautiful sti-eets and many large and handsome business
houses.
In the city of Bristol are to be found two female colleges — to-
wit: Sullins College and the Southwest Virginia Institute — that
cannot be excelled anywhere in the South.
In the year 1902 the Norfolk and Western Eailway Company
tore down the old depot, erected in 18G5, and on the same site
erected as handsome a depot as is to be found in Southwest Virginia.
Census of Bristol^ Virginia.
1880 1,562
1890 2,902
1900 4,579
Census of Bristol, Tennessee,
1880 1,647
1890 3,324
1900 0,271
Officers of Bristol-Goodson.
Mayors.
1871-1875—1. C. Fowler.
1875-1886— John F. Terry.
1886-1889— A. F. Miles.
1889-1894— W. A. Eader.
1894-1898— J. H. Winston, Jr.
1898-1902— Chas. F. Gauthier.
1902 —William L. Eice.
Sergeants.
1871-1872— J. L. Ligon.
1872-1874— D. A. Wheeler.
1874-1875— W. H. Trammell.
18,75-1877— E. T. Hamlet.
1877-1881— John B. Keller.
1881-1884— D. A. Wheeler.
1884-1887— Chas. Worley.
688 Southivest Virginia, 1746-1786.
1887-1888— W. P. Hughes.
1888-1890— Chas. Worley.
1890-1892— W. J. Cox.
1892-1894— Justin King.
1894-1898— John H. Gose.
1900 — Luther Eush, resigned.
1902 — Jerry Bunting, appointed.
Recorder and Treasurer.
•
1870-1876— T. J. Millard.
1876-1878— M. T. Devault.
1878-1884— G. G. Hickman.
1884-1885— James Byrne.
1885-1886— A. F. Miles.
1886-1887— G. G. Hickman.
1887-1888— John D. Witt.
1888-1890— J. W. Mort, Clerk.
1890-1894— J. H. Winston, Jr., Clerk.
1894-1896— J. A. Stone,
1896-1897— G. H. Eeed,
1897-1900— H. Doriot, "
1900-1902— W. H. Price, Jr.,
1902 —J. PI. Gase,
1902 —P. C. Marsh. "
Judges of Corporation Court.
1890-1896— Wm. F. PJiea.
1896-1904— Wm. S. Stuart.
Commonwealilis A itorneys.
1890-1894— William S. Hamilton.
1894-1896— Preston Lewis Gray.
1896-1904— John S. Ashworth.
Chris of Corporation Court.
1890-1894— J. H. Winston, Jr.
1894-1896— Isaac Sharett.
1896-1898— James A. Stone.
1898-1902— W. H. Price, Jr.
1902 —John H. Gose.
WasMngton County, 1777-1870. 689
Treasurers.
1890 — C. C. Minor.
1890-1896— J. L. C. Smith.
1896-1904— J. W. Owens.
Commissioners of the Revenue.
1890-1896— J. W. Mort.
1896-1900— J. W. Frizzell.
1900-1902— S. D. Keller.
1902-1904— Geo. W. Hammit.
Chief of Police.
1896-1898— Geo. W. Wolf.
*1898-1904— W. B. Ivilgore.
VILLAGES OF WASHINGTON COUNTY.
Glade Spring.
Glade Spring is situated in the best section of AVasliington county,
and previous to the spring of the year 1856 but five houses were to
be found in that vicinity, viz., the residence of David Beattie,
which occupied the location of the present residence of Mrs. W. B.
Cobb ; the house of Beattie Allison, now occupied by Mrs. Brewer ;
a log house occupied by David (Proctor) Edmondson, on the lot
where Dr. W. L. Dunn's residence stands; the residence of W. Mc.
Eyburn and the residence of James 0. Eyburn, now occupied by
his widow.
The Virginia and Tennessee railroad was completed to this place
in the spring of the year 1856. A depot was built, and for a
short time was called Passawatamie, but it was changed within a
short time to Glade Spring by the request of all the citizens of
that community.
The name Glade Spring was derived from Glade Spring Presby-
terian church, located some distance south of the town.
In the year 1856, about the time the depot was erected,
W. B. Dickenson and J. S. Buchanan employed Francis Smith,
of Abingdon, to erect the frame building, now painted red, stand-
ing a short distance southwest of the depot and on the main road,
*Lists furnished by Captain Frank T. Barr.
690 Southivest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
and Dickenson & Buchanan occupied tlic same as a storehouse for
five years thereafter. This was the first husiness liouse established
in Glade Spring.
By the year 18G1, a considerable village had grown up around
the depot at Glade Spring and considerable business was trans-
acted there.
This is one town in Southwestern Virginia that escaped the
ravages of the Federal forces in 1864-1865, the depot being saved
at the request of David (Proctor) Edmondson.
Since the close of the war Ghide S})ring has been incorporated
by the General Assembly of Yirginia and now has a full quota
of town officials, namely:
Mayor — J. T. Morris.
Councilmen — W. K. Brooks, M. Y. Edmondson, J. D. Kent,
Samuel Keys and E. M. Atkins.
Three attorneys at law, to-wit: Seklen Longiey, S. D. Jones
and A. M. Dickenson, have had their homes in the town at different
times since 1870, and for a number of years a newspaper and a
bank have thrived in the town.
The citizens living in and around Glade Spring cannot be ex-
celled for virtue, wealth, intelligence and enterprise anywhere in
our country.
Postmasters — Glade Spring.
Office established December 30, 1833.
1833-1839— David E. Smyth.
1839-1845— Nickerson Snead.
1845 — John K. Cunningham.
1845-1847— Benjamin F. Aker.
1847-1852— D. M. Stewart.
1852-1853— Samuel Vance.
1853-1856— Abram S. Orr.
1856 — James Robinson.
1856-1858— Eobert H. Henderson.
1858-1869— James S. Buchanan.
1869-1870- Lavinia M. Eyburn.
1870-1872— Ann S. Cook.
1872-1873— Eoger Sullivan.
1873-1874— Hiram V. Thompson.
1874-1885— John C. O'Rear.
Washington Cotunly, 1777-1S70. G91
1885-1889— Eobert S. Ciinuingham.
1889-1894— John Faris.
1894-1898- Joseph D. Williams.
1898-1900— John E. Hendricks.
j\rEAD0W View.
Tliis is a tli)i\ing village about seven miles east of Abingdon,
on the Norfolk and Western railwa}', and is experiencing a rapid
growth at the present time, having several large and thriving
stores, several beautiful churches and a number of very thrifty
people for citizens.
The name of this village was suggested by the location (foi--
merly "Edmondson's Meadows").
Wyndale.
For many years this village was known as Montgomery's Switch,
the depot having been located on the lands of S. W. Montgomery,
but several years ago the name of the railroad station, but not
the postoffice, was changed to Wyndale by the authorities of the
Norfolk and Western railway.
This village has experienced some growth within recent years.
Wallace's Switch.
When the railroad reached this point in the year 1856, Major
Goforth was the owner of the mill at that point, and at his in-
stance the citizens of tlie community petitioned the railroad for
a station, and the station was established and called Goforth's,
but tlie name was shortly changed to Wallace's Switch in honor
of the Eev. W. P. Wallace, a Presbyterian minister who lived in
that community. The growth and prosperity of this town has
been greatly retarded in recent years by the rapid growth and de-
velopment of Bristol, which is in close proximity thereto.
This towTi has several good business houses and churches and
an excellent flouring mill, owned by Dr. W. M. Phillips.
Mendota.
Mendola is situated on the North Fork of Holston river op-
posite the noted Kinderhook farm and immediately on the Vir-
ginia and Southwestern railroad.
The excellent river-bottom lands opposite Mendota were pat>
ented by the Commonwealth to Thomas Kendrick, William Todd
693 Southivest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
Livingston and others, and the home of Peter Livingston was but
a short distance below Mendota at the time the noted half-breed
Benge made his raid thereon in the year 1794.
The river-bottom land opposite Mendota, some time previous to
1860, became the property of Adam Hickmen, a native of Kinder-
hook, N. Y, Upon his acquisition of this property, he gave
it the name of Kinderhook, and from this farm Kinderhook
magisterial district derived its name.
The postofiice at this point was for many years Kinderhook,
but some years ago the name was changed to Mendota by Henry
C. Holly, who for many years merchandised at that place.
A number of thriving business houses and pretty residences
are to be found at this place, and several physicians and one law-
yer reside in the town.
Hamilton Institute was established at Mendota in the year
1874, and has continued from that time to be the resort of the
ambitious youth, both male and female, of that section of this
county, x'^t present its prosperity is fairly good.
Several efforts have been made in recent years to organize a
new county out of parts of the counties of Scott, Washington and
Eussell, and Ifendota has been the only place suggested as the
county seat of the proposed new county.
Damascus.
When the Abingdon Coal and Iron Eailroad Company was first
suggested, and for some years thereafter, the location of this town
and the postoffice at this place were known as Mock's Mills and
remained so until about the year 1892; when the postoffice was
changed to Damascus at the instance of General J. D. Imboden,
who at that time was very much interested in the welfare of the
community.
It has been suggested that the name of Damascus was given to
this locality because of a fancied resemblance to Damascus in Pales-
tine, near the scene of the conversion of St. Paul.
The location of this town was laid off into streets by the year
1892, and the plans of a magnificent hotel and numerous business
enterprises were projected; but the crisis came soon thereafter,
and all growth and progress ceased until about the year 1897.
In the meantime business had revived, and the property of the
Abingdon Coal and Iron Eailroad Company became the property
Washington County, 1777-1870. 693
of the Virginia and Carolina Eailway Company, of which W. E.
Mingea, of Eoanoke, was president, and the railroad had been
completed to Damascus.
The first train carrying passengers reached Damascus on the
7th day of February, 1900, and at that time the building of the
Beaver Dam railroad from Damascus to Crandull, Tennessee, was
b'eing rapidly pushed to completion, and every preparation was
being made for a rapid development of the magnificient water-
power, mineral deposits and immense forests of splendid timber
found in the immediate vicinity of Damascus.
Since that time the Beaver Dam railroad has been completed,
and the Virginia and Carolina Eailway Company has been ex-
tended some distance up Laurel Fork of Holston river in the di-
rection of North Carolina. A large tannery, extract plant, an
extensive sash, door and blind factory and numerous saw mills
carried on by hundreds of hands are at work in and around Da-
mascus at the present time. The town itself has experienced a
very rapid growth, and to-day boasts of several churches, a splen-
did public school building, a number of prosperous mercantile
establishments, one physician, Dr. Fortune, one real estate agent,
E. F. Fortime, a bank and many thrifty citizens.
Greendale.
Greendale is situated six miles northwest of Abingdon on the
Eussell turnpike, in the Eich Valley. The name of tliis town
was suggested by the location, and the town boasts of an excellent
high school, several stores, two mills, several churches and many
good citizens.
Boundaries of Washington County.
The boundaries of Washington county, with the exception of
the southern boundary, between this county and the State of Ten-
nessee, formerly the State of North Carolina, have been fully
given at other places in this history, and as to them there has been
no serious controversy.
The southern boundary of Virginia, extending from Steep Eock
creek, now the Laurel Fork of Holston river, to Cumberland Gap,
has been the subject of controversy since the coming of th"e first
settlers to this portion of Virginia, and, therefore, it is deemed
proper that a history of this controversy shonld he preserved,
694 Southivcst Virginia, 171,6-1786.
The first charter of Virginia was granted by King James in
the year IGOG to Sir Thomas Gates, Sir George Somers, Richard
Hackluit, Edward Maria Wingfield, Thomas Hanham, Robert Gil-
bert, William Parker and George Popham, and embraced all the
lands lying and being all along the sea coast between 34° of north
latitnde from the eqninoctial line, and 45° degrees of the same
latitude, and in the main land between the same 34 and 45 degrees
of latitnde and the islands thereunto adjacent or within one hun-
dred miles of the coast thereof.
The second charter of Virginia was granted by King James in
the year 1G09 to' the treasurer and company of adventurers and
planters of the city of London for the first Colony of Virginia.
The territory thus granted was described as follows: "All those
lands, countries and territories situate, lying and being in that
part of America called Virginia, from the point of land called
Cape or Point Comfoi-t all along the sea coast to the northward
two hundred miles, and from the said point of Cape of Comfort
all along the sea coast to the southward two hundred miles, and
all that space and circuit of land lying from the sea coast of the
precinct aforesaid up into the lands throughout from sea to sea
west and north west, and also all the islands lying within one hun-
dred miles along the coast of both seas of the precinct aforesaid.
"In the year 1663, Charles II., King of England, granted a
charter to Edward, Earl Clarendon, George, Duke of Albemarle,
William, Lord Craven, John, Lord Berkley, Anthony, Lord Ash-
ley, Sir George Carteret, Sir William Berkley and Sir John Col-
leton, of all that territory or tract of ground situated, lying and
being within our dominions of America, extending from the north
end of Lucke Island, which lyeth in the southern Virginia seas
and within six and thirty degrees of the northern latitude, and
to the west as far as the South seas, and so southerly as far as the
river St. Mathias, which bordereth upon the coast of Florida and
Mn'thin one and thirty degrees of northern latitude, and so west in
a direct line as far as the South seas aforesaid."
A second charter was granted by King Charles II. in the year
K'.C.'^ to the same persons, and by this charter the northern boun-
diiry of Caroline was fixed at 36° and 30 minntes north latitude
and so west in a direct line to the South seas.
Considerable difficulty was experienced hj the twQ colonies in
Washington County, 1777-1870. 695
agreeing upon tlie time location of this line previously to tlie year
)77G,, bul:, notwithstanrling these difficulties, tlie lino was extended
as far west as Steep liock • creek, now Beaver Dam creek,
in this county, by Joshua Fry and Peter Jefferson, commissioners
upon the part of Virginia, and Daniel Weldon and William Clmr-
ton, commissioners on the part of ISTorth Carolina.
It will be observed that tlie lands included in the Carolina
charter had been previously granted by King James to the treas-
urer and company of adventurers and planters of the city of Lon-
don for the first Colony in Virginia, and a similar condition ex-
isted as to the colonies of Maryland and Pennsylvania.
When the delegates and representatives from the several coun-
ties in Virginia met in Williamsburg and adopted a Constitution
for the Commonwealth on tlie 5th day of May, 1776, section 21
of that Constitution contained the following provision :
"The territories contained within the Charters, erecting the
Colonies of ]\faryland, Pennsylvania, North and South Carolina,
are hereby ceded, released and forever confirmed to the people of
these colonies respectively, with all the rights of property. Juris-
diction and government, and all other rights whatsoever, which
might, at time heretofore, have been claimed by Virginia, except
the free navigation and use of the rivers Patomoque and Poke-
moke, with the. property of the Virginia shores and strands, bor-
dering on either of the said rivers, and all improvements which
have been or shall be made thereon. The Western and Kortliern
extent of Virginia shall in all respects stand as fixed by the Char-
ter of King James I., in the year one thousand six hundred and
nine, and by the public treaty of peace between the courts of
Britain and France, in the year one thousand seven hundred and
sixty-three; unless, by Act of this Legislature; one or more gov-
ernments be established westward of the Alleghany mountains.
And no purchases of lands shall be made of the Indian natives,
but on behalf of the Public by authority of tlie General Assembly."
Thus Virginia disposed of all her rights in and to the large ter-
ritory included within the State of North Carolina.
By this time the lands west of the mountains and exfending
far into the present State of Tennessee were being rapidly settled,
and disputes were frequent and oftentimes resulted in violence.
The first controversy as to the true location of this line in this
696 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
section of Virginia arose out of the election held for members of
the House of Delegates from Washington county, in the spring
of the year 177.7.
Tlie right of Anthony Bledsoe and William Cocke, the delegates
receiving the majority of votes in that election, was contested by
Arthur Campbell and William Edmiston, the principal ground of
their contest being that Bledsoe and Cocke were elected by citizens
living in North Carolina.
The contention of Campbell and Edmiston was not sustained,
and the citizens living as far down as the Long Island of Holston
were accepted as legal voters in said election.
In the following year Arthur Campbell and Anthony Bledsoe
were elected to represent this county in the House of Delegates
of Virginia and, upon the assembling of the General Assembly,
Anthony Bledsoe presented a bill for extending the boundary line
between Virginia and North Carolina, which bill became a law at
the same session of the General Assembly.
The bill as thus passed was as follows :
Whereas, the inhabitants of this commonwealth and those of
the State of North Carolina have settled themselves farther west-
ward than the boundary betw^een the said two states hath hitherto
been extended, and it becomes expedient in order to prevent dis-
putes among such settlers, that the same should be now farther
extended and marked. Be it therefore enacted by the General As-
sembly, that two commissioners shall be appointed by joint ballot
of both houses of assembly, who shall have authority to meet with
others to be appointed on the part of said State of North Caro-
lina, and proceed to extend and mark the line between this Com-
monwealth and the State of North Carolina, beginning where
Joshua Fry and Peter Jefferson, commissioners from Virginia,
together with others from North Carolina, formerly appointed to
run the said line, ended their work, and, if that be found to be
truly in the latitude of thirty-six degrees thirty minutes north,
then to run from thence due west to Tenasee river, or, if it be
found not truly in the said latitude, then to run from the said
place due north or south into said latitude, and thence due west to
the said Tenasee river, correcting the said course at due intervals
by asti'onomical observations. If either of the commissioners so
to be appointed shall decline or be unable to go through the duties
Washington County, 1777-1870. 697
of his appointmeiit, the governor and council shall appoint some
other to act in his stead; The said commissioners shall nominate
svich skillful surveyor to execute their directions and such other
attendants as shall be necessary, and shall endeavor to procure the
most accurate instruments, which, if injured in said service, shall
be made good at the public expense, or wholly paid for, at the
election of the proprietor, if borrowed from an individual, or of
any such other person or persons, as shall have authority to make
such election, if borrowed from any seminary of learning. Bach
commissioner shall be allowed for his trouble herein fifty shillings
per day for every day he shall attend. Each surveyor with the
chain carriers and other attendants, shall be allowed such sums as
the commissioners shall certify they respectively ought to receive
and be paid by the treasurer of this commonwealth out of any
publick money in his hands, together with the allowance to the
commissioners as aforesaid; and the saii commissioners are hereby
directed to make a report of their proceedings to the general as-
sembly.
And whereas, from the hostile disposition of the Indian na-
tions, it may be unsafe for the commissioners and attendants to
proceed on the business hereby directed, without a sufficient guard
to protect them. Be it further enacted. That the governor, with
the advice of the council, shall, on application of the commission-
ers so appointed direct and order a sufficient number of officers
and men to be raised for that purpose, by voluntary enlistment, or
if that cannot be done, then to be furnished from the militia of
such counties as shall be convenient, to attend the said commis-
sioners as a guard, and, for their safe conduct in the prosecution
of the business by this act directed shall order them a sufficient
number of tents and camp utensils, and shall appoint a commis-
sary to furnish necessary provisions during the time they shall
be employed for the purpose aforesaid; which commissary shall,
previously to his entering on the execution of his office, give bond
with sufficient security for the faithful performance of his duty,
and shall receive for his services such allowance as is given to
other commissaries of this commonwealth.
In the year 1779, the Legislature of North Carolina concurred
in the action of the Legislature of Virginia and passed the fol-
lowing Act:
"Whereas, the iuliabitants of this State and those of the com-
698 Southwest Virginia, 17.^6-1186.
raonwealth of Virginia, have settled themselves farther west-
wardly than the boundary between the said two States hath
hitherto been extended; and it becomes expedient in order to pre-
vent disputes among such settlers, that the same shall be further
extended and marked. 2 Be it therefore enacted, &c., that Oroon-
dates Davis, John Williams (Caswell), James Kerr, William
Bailey Smith and Eicliard Henderson, or any three of them, bo
and they are hereby appointed commissioners with full power and
authority to meet with other commissioners from the common-
wealth of Virginia, and to proceed to extend and mark the line
between that commonwealth and this State, beginning where
Joshua Frye and Peter Jefferson, commissioners on the part of
Virginia, together with Daniel Weldon and William Churton, from
North Carolina, formerly appointed to run the said line, ended
their work; and if that be found to be truly in the latitude of
thirty-six degrees thirty minutes north then to run from thence
due west to Tennessee or the Ohio river; or if it be found not truly
in said latitude, then to run from the said place due north or due
south, in the said latitude, and thence due west to the said Ten-
nessee or Ohio river; correcting the said course at due intervals
by astronomical observations. If either of the commissioners by
this act appointed shall decline, or be unable to go through the
duties of his appointment, the Governor and Council shall appoint
some other to act in his stead.
And the said commissioners are hereby directed to make report
of their proceedings to the General Assembly"*
The Governor of Virginia, pursuant to the authority vested in
him, directed Thomas Sharp and a company of militia to act as
guard to the commissioners while running the boundary line as
directed, and designated Anthony Bledsoe to act as commissary
to the commissioners and the guard while running said line.
The Governor of Virginia, pursuant to the authority vested in
him, appointed Dr. Thomas W^alker and Daniel Smith commis-
sioners upon the part of Virginia, and the Virginia commissioners,
in the summer of 1779, met the J^orth Carolina commissioners
at Steep Eock creek, and proceeded to discharge the duties di-
.roftcd by the General Assemblies of the two States.
As to what occurred at this time and upon this undertaking, the
^'KovLsed Stiitutes of N. C, Vol. IF., page 82.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 699
report of Dr. Walker and Daniel Smith is the best evidence, and
is here given :
To the Honorable, the Speaker and Gentlemen of the House of
Delegates:
"In obedience to ah act of the assembly entitled "An act for
extending the boundary line between Virginia and North Caro-
lina/'
We, the subscribers, proceeded to run the said Line.
The gentlemen from North Carolina did not meet us so soon as
had b'een agreed; and after they came many accidents happened
which protracted the business. The place where Messrs. Fry and
Jefferson ended their line, on Steep Eock creek, could not be
found, owing, we suppose, to so much of the timber thereabout
being since dead ! We proceeded to observation in order to fix
upon the spot on Steep Eock creek, where we should begin. On
Monday, 6th September, 1779, having agi-eed with the Carolina
gentlemen in Observation, the following Memorandums were en-
tered on their Journal as well as ours, as proper preliminaries
agreed upon, necessary for fixing this line. Viz. "That the Sun's
Meridian Altitude was this day fifty-nine degrees fifty-two
minutes — ^that this place of observation was one minute and
twenty-five seconds north of the proper latitude, or one mile, two
hundred and one poles and a half — That at Steep Eock we were
in superficial measure 339 miles West of Currituck Inlet: That
there should be an abatement of twelve miles for mountainous
and imeven ground, or that we were 317 miles or five degrees and
forty-two minutes west of Currituck Inlet; That a degree of longi-
tude in this latitude is 48.23 geographic miles, or of statute miles
55 and 1,083 yards. That Currituck Inlet was in 75 degrees 30
minutes west Longitude, this being the average of three differ-
ent accounts, and of course that the Longitude we were then in
was 81 degrees 18 minutes west of London. We measured off the
one mile and 201^/2 poles a due south course, and the beginning
of the line was thus fixed to the satisfaction of all. We should
not have troubled you with these particulars, but for some subse-
quent events which make us think it our duty. After running
the line as far as Carter's valley 45 miles west of Steep Eock
creek, the Carolina gentlemen then conceived the line was farther
South than it ought to be, and on trial it was found that the va-
700 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
riation of the needle had altered a little, which must have hap-
pened very lately, and was owing, w© believe, to oiir being just
then near some Iron Ore: because on observing the Sun's Meri-
dian Altitude the line was not too far South. As, the Carolina
gentlemen, by their Observations, made out otherways, they pro-
posed that the surveyors on each side should observe and fix the
latitude. This was agreed to by one of us, influenced by a knowl-
edge of a small change of the variation, and was not dissented to
by the other, as most of the observations on the part of Virginia
had been made by him. But, quite contrary to our expectations, '
they agreed that we were more than two miles too far South of
the proper latitude, which distance was measured off directly north
and the line run eastward from that place superintended by two
of the Carolina gentlemen, and one of us; while from the same
place it was continued westwardly, superintended by the others
for the sake of expediting the business. The instruments proper
for ascertaining the latitude, were mostly taken back on the east-
ern part of the line, in order that those who superintended it
might be farther satisfied ; but after going back more than twenty
miles, and observing every day on this line, his judgment was un-
alterably fixed that this line was wrong, although the Carolina
gentlemen could not seem to be of this opinion, and he returned
and overtook his colleague on the Western part of the line on
Blackwater creek or thereabouts, to whom he imparted his senti-
ments, proposing that he should also observe for some days —
which he did — The result was that we concluded our first line right,
and we brO'Ught it up accordingly from Carter's valley where it
had been left and continued on with it to the westward.
It was once after this proposed by us, and agreed to by the
Carolina Gentlemen, that as we differed so much in Observation
we would each run his own line, encamp as near together as we
could and let future observers hereafter to be appointed, de-
termine which was right, which might be done at a small expense.
But this they afterwards declined, although they carried their line
as far as Cumberland mountain, protesting against our line.
This protest was received in a letter after we had crossed Cumber-
land mountain. We continued however as far as Clear fork, being
12334 miles from Steep Eock creek, marking a Poplar and two
Hackberry trees with initials of our names and with November
Washington County, 1777-1870. 701
22, 1779, and had serious thoughts of going no further. But when
we. considered that, perhaps, three-fourths of the whole expense
was already incurred, that a number of People were settling to
the Westward, who imagined they were in North Carolina, while
we thought they were on the lands reserved for our officers and
soldiers : These and some more of the like considerations,
made us think it more conducive to the good of the State in gen-
eral that we should keep on, than that we should return. But as
the season was far advanced and the Country before us, as far as
it was known, was very mountainous and barren, not yielding a
sufficient quantity ot Cane for our pack horses, which for some
time had been their principal support: these, among other reasons,
made us judge it best to leave off running the line here, and go
farther to the westward, into a "better Country, where, by reason
of many people being about to settle, it might be of importance
to run the line speedily. The map will show our route to a place
on Cumberland Eiver, where we built canoes to carry our luggage
and rest the pack horses, which were too much reduced to do ser-
vice that way. And here, to add to the number of our difficulties
and misfortunes, we were frozen up more than forty days in a river
never known to be frozen before. We went by water from this
j)lace until we got into the proper latitude (as we judge one hun-
dred and nine miles west of Clear Fork) and began the line on
two Beech trees marked with our names and Feb'y 25, 1780, on the
West bank of Cumberland Eiver, a creek coming in about a mile
above us on the AVest side, and another one so^mewhat smaller
about half a mile below us on the East side. From this place we
extended the line across the heads of Green Eiver and Eed river,
through a country called the Barrens, from there being little or
no timber in it, in many places, crossed the Cumberland again at
131 miles, where there is a cliff on the Northeast side, and a bot-
tom about three quarters of a mile broad on the other side, and at
the end of one hundred and forty miles, one quarter and eight
poles from the two Beech trees, on the 23rd day of March found
ourselves on the Bank of the Tennessee Eiver, and of course had
run the line as far westward as we were authorized to do, not-
withstanding the hardships and difficulties we had to contend
with — One of us kept through the woods with the surveyor while
the other went down by water, by which means a tolerable map of
702 Southwest Virginia, 17-^6-1786.
ilie CuiJiljciJiiiid Ikivcr is takeii^ ii liii*' rivfr, lje'in<^' navigabh; sit,
least 700 jiiih-s froiii, ili'i- rnoiitli upwards. Wlicii wo liad roturnt'd
liO'RiCwards about IGO Jiiiles we met with orders I'roiii his Excel-
lency the Governor to do another piece of service, wliich we sup-
pose he has made you acquainted with.
"We have also since seen Col. Henderson, one of the JSToi-th
Carolina commissioners who^ with another of his Colleagues has
been examining our line, and he has repeatedly given us more
reason to believe their state will establish the line as we ran it.
"Thomas Walker.
"Daniel Smith.''
This report of the Virginia commissioners accompanied the
Governor's communication tO' the Virginia House of Delegates in
the year 1780, and was received by the Legislature and ratified,
and, at the same time, Anthony Bledsoe, who had acted as com-
missary to the commissioners, and Thomas Sharp and his com-
pany of militia, who had acted as guard to the commissioners,
were allowed compensation for their expenses, etc.
If Richard Henderson and his associates made a report to the
General Assembly of North Carolina, I have not been able to ob-
tain it. The disorder that prevailed upon the failure of the com-
missioners to agree was alarming. Tlie criminals of the country
found a place of security between the lines as run by Walker and
Henderson, and the people living between said lines refused to'
pay taxes or perform military services in either State.
The Virginia Legislature, on the 0th of June, 1781, adopted
the following resolutions :
"Resolved, that it is the opinion of this committee that another
and more pointed representation may be made to the General As-
sembly of North Carolina, in support of the title of tlie citizens
of Virginia as well as the title of others, circumstanced as they
are, to lands which, previous to the lat'e extension of the boundary
line between this State and that of North Carolina were supposed
to be in this commonwealth, but since have been proved to lie in
the said State of North Carolina.
"Resolved, that it is the opinion of this committee, that such other
parts of the said memorial as pray that a public agent may be ap-
pointed to present the same to the General Assembly of said State
of North Carolina, and receive their final answer thereupon, are
Washington Countij, 1117-1810. 703
reasonable and that the Governor, with the advice of the Council, he
authorized and required to appoint such an agent."
And on the 15th of December, 1783, when the situation was pre-
carious indeed, the General Assembly of A'irginia adopted the fol-
lowing resolutions :
"Resolved, That the Governor, with the advice of his Council,
be authorized and required to propose to the Stafe of North Caro-
lina, either to confirm the boundary line extended by the Virginia
commissioners between the States of Virginia and North Caro-
lina, or to choose able commissioners from some other of the
United States, who shall begin where Joshua Fry and Peter Jef-
ferson, commissioners from Virginia, together with others from
North Carolina, formerly appointed to- run the same line, ended
their work: And if the termination of the old line be found truly
in the latitude of thirty-six degrees 80' north, to extend the same
to the river Mississippi, and should the termination of the old
line not be truly in the latitude aforesaid, then i^ run from thence
due north or south to the same, and fi'om thence di^c west to the
river Mississippi ; and that all necessary expenses incurred in car-
rying this resolution into execution be paid out of any money in
the hands of the treasurer, not otherwise appropriated."*
But the General Assembly of jSTorth Carolina, for some reason,
delayed action as to the confirmation of the Walker line until the
year 1789. In the meantime the authorities of Washington
county were exercising all their energies in keeping the peace and
preserving order in the disputed territory.
Colonel Arthur Campl)ell, the county lieutenant of Washing-
ton county, in answer to' an inquiry, addressed the following letter
to the Governor of Virginia in the year 1787:
"Sir, — If I recollect right, about the year 1749, the boundary
line betwixt Virginia and N. Carolina was extended by Col. Fry
and Jefferson as far Avest as a place called Steep Eock creek, since
known by the name of Laurel Fork of the Holston Eiver. This
line being extended on the true latitude by commissioners on both
sides, and mutually agreed to was returned and recorded in Public
Offices in both States.
"In 1779, the Commissioners, Thomas Walker and Daniel
Smith, on the part of Virginia, and Richard Henderson and
•^Journal House of Delegates, 1781.
704 Southwest Virginia, 17Jt6-1786.
James Smith on the part of North Carolina, met at the place
where Fry and Jefferson left off, and, after spending many days in
making observations, agreed to continue Fry and Jefferson's line
as the tnie, or at least nearest the true latitude. Both parties pro-
ceeded amicably about 40 miles, until they crossed the north fork
of Holston, near the Great Island. By this time the Pilots and
Hunters gave it as their opinion that both Cumberland Gap and
the settlement on Cumberland Eiver, at the French Lick, would
both fall into Virginia. A halt was made and several days passed
in making observations, debating, and even abusing one another.
Henderson said the line must be run crooked, and insisted on de-
lay until a parallel at two miles distant, north of the line then
run, should be extended eastward back, which would prove whether
the surveyors had lost the latitude and run the line crooked. To
this Dr. Walker assented, that if the line was found crooked he
would rectify it. The surveyors ran back accordingly, accom-
panied by two commissioners, and the line was found equi-distant
in all parts that Avas tryed. It was then acknowledged that the
error did not proceed from the surveyors. Notwithstanding which,
Henderson proceeded westwardly on the north line and Walker on
that of the South, it being a due west direction from Steep Eock.
The Commissioners, when they reached Cumberland mountain
again, had a meeting and spent many days in taking observations.
At length Walker proceeded on over the mountain with his line,
without being accompanied by Henderson, spent the winter in
the woods and, the next spring, continued the line to the Missis-
sippi. The Carolina Commissioners left off at Cumberland Moun-
tain, and when they found that the boundary run by Dr. Walker
left the French Lick upwards of twenty miles to the South, they
seemed well satisfied, and it was generally thought that Dr. Wal-
ker's report would be agreed to and signed by both parties. But,
from what motive I know not, yet Henderson returned his works
as run only to the Cumberland Mountain to the Executive of North
Carolina. And I have been told that the papers have since lain
dormant, no opinion having been given one way or tJie other.
"The People settled between those lines have ever since adhered
to either State, as Interest, caprice and sometimes very unworthy
jnotives dictated. Although the public authority seeras, in the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 705
first instance, to be blamable, yet the evil amongst the people is
increasing, and prudence points out delay as improper."
In the meantime Daniel Smith had appeared before the General
Assembly of North Carolina and represented to that body the
true situation of affairs in the disputed territory, and, as a result,
the committee to whom the communication from the Virginia
authorities had been referred, reported to the General Assembly
of North Carolina at their session in the fall of the year 1789,
which report is as follows :
REPOET
Of the Committee. of the Legislature of North Carolina, on Wal-
ker's Line, at their session at Fayetteville, which began on
the 3nd. of November and ended on the 22nd. of De-
cember, 1789.
Mr. Person, from the committee tO' whom was referred the let-
ter from his Excellency, the Governor of Virginia, on the subject
of establishing the boundaries between this State and Virginia,
reported that it is proposed on the part of Virginia that the line
commonly called . Walker's line be established as the boundary be-
tween us. Should this proposal not be acceptable to tliis State,
they then will appoint commissioners to meet any persons who
may be appointed on the part of North Carolina, empowered to
confer on the propriety of establishing Walker's or Henderson's
line, and to report to the Legislature of tlieir respective State
their proceedings.
On examining the manner in which those lines were run by the
commissioners in the year 1780, they iind that the commissioners
began and extended the line together about forty miles, when some
difference took place and the commissioners on the part of this
State ran a parallel line two miles north of the other line, for
about half the distance, and extended the line no farther. Mr.
Walker and the other commissioners from Virginia extended the
line to the Tennessee river and marked its termination on the
Mississippi by observations, leaving the line from the Tennessee
to that place unsurveyed.
As the difference between said lines would be only two miles,
running most of the distance through a mountainous, barren coun-
try, and as they have great reason to believe, from the information
TOG Southivest Virginia, 17J,6-17S6.
of General Smith, that the commonly called Walker's line is the
true line, your committee are of the opinion that the object is not
worth the expense of sending commissioners to confer on the
propriety of establishing Henderson's line in preference to that of
any other and do recommend that a law be passed confirming and
establishing the line usually called Walker's line as the boundary
between this State and the State of Virginia, with a reservation
in favor of the oldest grants from either State in deciding the
rights of individual claimants in the tract of country between the
two lines commonly called Henderson's and Walker's lines.
This report was not definitely acted upon until the 11th of De-
cember, 1790, upon which day an Act was passed establishing Wal-
ker's line as the boundary line between the States, which action of
the General Assembly of I^orth Carolina was immediately com-
municated to the Governor of Virginia at the fall session, 1791,
of the General Assembly of Virginia, and on the ,7th day of De-
cember the following action was taken by the General Assembly
of Virginia :
§ 1. Whereas, official information hath been received by the
General Assembly that the Legislature of the State of North
Carolina have resolved to establish the line as the boundary line
between Nortli Carolina and this Commonwealth, and it is judged
expedient to confirm and establish the said line on the part of
this State, be it therefore enacted by the General Assembly, that
the line commonly called and known by the name of Walker's
line shall be, and the same is hereby declared, to be the boundary
line of this State.
§ 2. And be it further enacted. That in all courts of law and
equity within this Commonwealth, the claims for lands lying be-
tween the line commonly called Walker's line and the line com-
monly called Henderson's line shall be decided in favor of the
oldest title, whether derived from this Commonwealth or from
the State of North Carolina.
In the meantime the State of North Carolina, through her sena-
tors in the Congress of the United States, had conveyed and ceded
to the United States of America all of her western possessions, in-
cluding the territory affected by the disputed line and which ces-
sion was accepted by the Congress of the United States on the 7th
day of April, 1790.
Washington County, 1777-1870. '5'07
As a result, the authorities of the southwest territory, now in-
cluded in the State of Tennessee, denied the right of North Caro-
lina to act in the premises, and held the action taken to be invalid,
and asserted their right to the territory lying between the Walker
and Henderson lines.
In the spring of the year 1792, the Governor of Virginia, by
proclamation, asserted the authority of this Commonwealth to the
lands in dispute, and directed Colonel Arthur Campbell, the
county lieutenant of this county, to transmit a copy of the law
and proclamation to William Blount, the Governor of the south-
west territory, and to Gilbert Christian, the county lieutenant of
Sullivan county.
Pursuant to the direction of the Governor, Colonel Campbell,
on the 7th of June, 1792, addressed the following letter to Gov-
ernor Blount:
"Sir, — I enclose you a copy of a law, with a proclamation of the
Governor of Virginia, by the same conveyance. I am instructed
to exercise the authority of the State to the boundary, usually
called Walker's line. In this business, it is the wish of the Execu-
tive that the subordinate officers conduct themselves in an amica-
ble manner to the inliabitants over which North Carolina for-
merly exercised 'Jurisdiction, and with due respect to the authority
of the Government south of the Eiver Ohio; these orders are per-
fectly consonant to my own feelings and sentiments. Therefore,
Sir, if you have any objections to make to the change taking place,
or anything to ask in favor of the people, it will be respectfully
attended to by me and immediately reported to the Governor of
Virginia.
"I am Sir, Your most Ob't Serv't,
"A. Campbell."
At the same time Colonel Campbell addressed a letter to Gil-
bert Christian asking information as to the orders given by Gov-
ernor Blount as to the disputed territory, and in reply received
the following letter from Gilbert Christian :
"Dear Sir, — Some days past I received a letter from you, re-
questing me to inform you whether Governor Blount had given
special orders to me to draft between Walker's and Henderson's
lines. Sir, my orders are to draft the men required from the County
of Sullivan, which I conceived extends from Henderson's line
708 Southwest Virginia, 1740-1780.
from everytliing I have laiown or seen, respecting that matter for
when the Assembly of North Carolina passed the cession Act, that
part was claimed by North Carolina, but after they passed the s'd
cession Act, and at the same Assembly they passed a resolve, giv-
ing up that part to Virginia with a condition Congress wonld con-
sent to it, which has never been done as I know of. I have seen, a
proclamation from the Governor of Virginia, informing the peo-
ple in those bounds that the Assembly of North Carolina made such
a Eesolve, and at the next year's Assembly they appointed a com-
mittee to confirm the s'd Eesolve, which they did. But Congress
had received the cession Act, before that several months, and
appointed and commissioned Governor Blount to exercise his au-
thority over the ceded territory. I cannot see what right North
Carolina had to say anything about our territory, without our con-
sent or the consent of Congress, for the Constitution says the peo-
ple are not to be bound by law, but by their own consent, either by
themselves or by their Representatives in General Assembly. So,
Sir, I apprehend the State of Pennsylvania had as great a right
to have confirmed the aforesaid Resolve as the State of North
Carolina. If the Executive of your State had mentioned in the
Proclamation a confirmation of the Resolve aforesaid by Congress,
it might have been considered authentick, but as it is I cannot con-
ceive it so."
Upon the receipt of this letter. Colonel Campbell enclosed the
same to the Governor of Virginia, and addressed the following
letter to the Governor :
"Sir, — The enclosed letter from the commanding officer of the
militia, of Sullivan county, seems to be an avowal of an opposition
to an act of our Legislature, for establishing Walker's line as the
boundary line to this State.
"That I conceive it my duty to forward it to your Excellency.
About half of the inhabitants between the lines seem desirous to
be governed by the laws of Virginia, but they complain of it as an
oppression to be harassed by the authority of the Southwest Ter-
ritory, and to pay obedience to the laws of this State at the same
time."
The authorities of the Southwest Territory used every means
possible to induce the people in the disputed territory to give their
allegiance to the Southwest Territory. Governor Blount published
Washington County, 1777-1870. 709
in the Knoxville Gazette, on the 10th of March, 1792, a communi-
cation Vhich purported to give the reasons why the people living
in the disputed territor}^ should he subject to the authority of the
territory. The arguments used were exemption from the payment
of taxes, local convenience and the accessibility of the seat of gov-
ernment of the Southwest Territoiy.
The State of Tennessee was admitted into the Union on the 1st
day of June, 1796, and the Constitution of the State adopted in
the same year defines the boundaries of the State as follows :
"Beginning on the extreme height of the Stone mountain at the
place where the line of Virginia intersects it in latitude thirty-
six degrees and thirty minutes north, running thence along the
extreme height of the said mountain to the place where Watauga
Eiver breaks through it; thence a direct course to the top of the
Yellow mountain, wliere Bright's road crosses the same; thence
along the ridge of said mountain, between the waters of Doe Eiver
and the waters of Eock Creek, to the place where the road crosses
the Iron Mountain ; from thence along the extreme height of said
mountain to the place where Nolichucky Eiver runs through the
same; thence to the top of Bald ]\Iountain; thence along the ex-
treme height of said mountain to the Painted Eock, on French
Broad Eiver; thence along the highest ridge of said mountain to
the place where it is called the Great Iron or Smoky Mountain;
thence along the extreme height of said mountain to the place
where it is called the Unicoi or Unaka Mountain, between the
Indian towns of Cowee and Old Chota; thence along the main
ridge of the said mountain to the southern boundary of this State,
as described in the Act of session of North Carolina to the United
States of America that all the territory, lands and waters lying
west of said line, contained in the chartered limits of the State
of North Carolina, are within the boundaries and limits of this
State."
The boundaries of the State of Tennessee as fixed by the Con-
stitution of 1796 were incorporated in the Constitutions of that
State, adopted in the years 1834 and 1870.
It will thus be seen that the Constitution of the State of Tennes-
see designates their northern line to be in thirty-six degrees and
thirty minutes north latitude, when, in fact, the line now insisted
710 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
upon by that State is in latitude 36° 36' 00.94", or 6' 00.94" north
of the true line.
Such was the condition oi affairs at the beginning of the year
1800.
On the 10th of January, 1800, the General Assembly of Virginia
adopted the following resolution :
^'Resolved, That the Executive be authorized and requested to
appoint three commissioners, whose duty it shall be to meet com-
missioners to be appointed by the State of Tennessee, to settle and
adjust all differences concerning the said boundary line^ and
to establish the one or the other of the said lines, as the
case may be, or to run any other line which may be agreed on for
settling the same; and that the Executive also be requested to
transmit a copy of this resolution to the Executive authority of
the State of Tennessee.'^
The General Assembly of the State of Tennessee, on November
13, 1801, adopted the following act:
1. Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Tennes-
see, That the Governor, for the time being, is hereby authorized
and required, as soon as may be convenient after the passing of
this act, to appoint three commissioners on the part of the State,
one of whom shall be a mathematician capable of taking the lati-
tude, who, when so appointed, are hereby authorized and em-
powered, or a majority of them, to act in conjunction with such
commissioners as are or may be appointed by the State of Vir-
ginia, to settle and designate a true line between the aforesaid
States.
2. Be it enacted. That there shall be appointed by the authority
aforesaid one surveyor, who, together with the aforesaid commis-
sioners, shall each receice five dollars per day as full compensation
for their services and expenses whilst they are performing the
duties enjoined in this act, and there shall also be chosen by the
commissioners one suitable person as marker of the line afore-
said, who shall receive two dollars per day in full discharge for
his services and expenses.
And whereas, it may be difficult for this Legislature to ascer-
tain with precision what powers ought of right to be delegated to
the said commissioners; therefore,
3. Be it enacted, That the governor is hereby authorized and re^
Washington County, 1777-1870. 711
quired, from time to time, to issue such instructions to the com-
missioners as he may deem proper for the purpose of carrying into
effect the object intended by this act consistent with the true
interest of the State.
4. Be it enacted, That said commissioners, as soon as may
be, shall report in writing to the governor for the time being a
true statement of all their proceedings relative to the running and
establishing of the said line, whose duty it shall be to lay the
same before the succeeding Legislature.
Pursuant to the authority thus conferred Peter Johnston, Joseph
Martin and Creed Taylor were appointed commissioners upon
the part of Virginia, and Moses Fisk, John Sevier and G-eoTge
Eutledge commissioners upon the part of Tennessee to ascertain
and adjust the boundary line between the two States, while Brice
Martin and Nathan B. Markland were appointed surveyors to
run and mark the said line.
The commissioners thus appointed proceeded to the discharge
of their duties and completed their labors at the house of "William
Eobertson, near Cumberland Gap, on the 8th of December, 1802.
The commissioners and surveyors thereupon reported their
action to the General Assembly of the States of Virginia and
Tennessee. Their report was confirmed and the boundary line
between the States established as reported by an act of the General
Assembly of Virginia passed on the 22d of January, 1803, which
act is as follows:
'1. Whereas the commissioners appointed to' ascertain and ad-
just the boundary line between this State and the State of Tennes-
see in conformity to the resolution passed by the Legislature of
this State for that purpose have proceeded to the execution of the
said business, and made a report thereof in tlie words following,
to-wit: "The commissioners for ascertaining and adjusting the
boundary line between the States of Virginia and Tennessee, ap-
pointed pursuant to public authority on the part of each, namely.
Genera] Joseph Martin, Creed Taylor and Peter Johnston, for the
former, and Moses Fisk, General John Sevier and General George
Rutledge, for the latter, having met at the place previously ap-
pointed for that purpose and not uniting in the general results of
their astronomical observations to establish either of the former
lines, called Walker's and Henderson's, unanimously agreed, in
712 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
order to end all controversy resjjecting the subject, to run a due
west line equally distant from both, beginning on the summit of
the mountain generally known by the name of White Top moun-
tain, where the northeastern corner of Tennessee terminates, to
the top of the Cumberland mountain, where the southwestern
corner of Virginia terminates, which is hereby declared to be the
true boundary line between the said States, and has been accord-
ingly run by Brice Martin and Nathan B. Markland, the sur-
veyors duly appointed for that purpose, and marked under the
direction of the said commissioners, as will more at large appear
by the rejwrt of the said surveyors, hereto annexed, and bearing
equal date herewith.
"3. The Commissioners do' further nnanimonsly agree, to recom-
mend to their respective States, that individuals having claims or
titles to lands on either side of said line, as now fixed and agreed
upon, and between the lines aforesaid, shall not in consequence
thereof, in any wise be prejudiced or affected thereby ; and that the
Legislatures of their respective States, should pass mutual laws
to render all such claims or titles secure to the owners thereof.
"3. And the said Commissioners do further unanimously agree
to recommend to their States respectively, that reciprocal laws
should be passed, confirming the acts of all public officers, whether
Magistrates, Sheriffs, coroners, surveyors or constables, between
the said lines, Mdiich would have been legal in either of said States
had no difference of opinion existed about the true boundary line.
. "4. This agreement shall be of no effect until ratified by the
Legislatures of the States aforesaid, respectively, and until they
shall pass mutual laws for the purpose aforesaid. Given imder
our hands and seals at William Eobertson's, near Cumberland
Gap, December the eighth, eighteen hundred and two.
"Joseph Martin (L. S.) "Moses Fisk (L. S.)
"John Sevier (L. S.) "Peter Johnston (L. S.)
"Creed Taylor (L. S.) "George Rutledge (L. S.)
5, And whereas Brice Martin and Nathan B. Markland, the
surveyors duly appointed to run and mark the said line, liave
granted th'eir certificate of the execution of their duties, which
certificate is in the words following, to-wit: "The undersigned
surveyors, having been duly appointed to run the boundary line
between the States of Virginia and Tennessee, as directed by the
Washington County, 1777-1870. 713
commissioners for that purpose, have, agreeably to their orders,
]'iin the same, beginning on the summit of White Top Mountain,
at the termination of the northeastern comer ,of the State of
Tennessee, a due west course to the top of Cumberland mountain,
where the southwestern comer of the State of Virginia terminates
keeping at an equal distance from the line called Walker's and
Henderson's, and have had the new line run as aforesaid marked
with five chops in the form of a diamond, as directed by the said
commissioners. Given under our hands and seals, this eighth day
of December, eighteen hundred and two.
"B Martin, (L. S.). Nat. B. Markland, (L. S.)."
And it is deemed proper and expedient that the said boundary
Hue so fixed and ascertained as aforesaid should be established and
confirmed on the part of this Commonwealth.
"Be it therefore enacted by the General Assembly of the Com-
mionwealth of Virginia, That the said boundary line between
this State and the State of Tennessee, as laid down, fixed and
ascertained by the said commissioners above named, in their said
report above recited, shall be, and is hereby fully and absolutely,
to all intents and purposes whatsoever ratified, established and
confirmed on the part of this Commonwealth, as the true, certain
and real boundary line between the said States.
"7. All claims or titles to lands derived from the government
of ISTorth Carolina or Tennessee, which said lands by the adjust-
ment and establishment of the line aforesaid, have fallen intO' this
State, shall remain as secure to the owners thereof as if derived
from the government of Virginia, and shall not be in any wise
prejudiced or affected in consequence of the establishment of
the said line.
"8. The acts of all public officers, whether magistrates, sheriffs,
coroners, surveyors or constables, heretofore done or performed in
that portion of territory between the lines called Walker's and
Henderson's lines, which has fallen into this State by the adjust-
ment of the present line and which would have been Tegal if done
or performed in the States of North Carolina or Tennessee, are
hereby recognized and confirmed.
"9. This act shall commence and be in force, from after the
passing of a like law on the part of the State of Tennessee.''
714 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
The General Assembly of the State of Tennessee on November
3, 1803, adopted an act confirming the report of the commission-
ers establishing the bonndary line between the two States and
confirming the title of all lands lying in the State of Tennessee
granted by the Commonwealth of Virginia as fully as if said land
had been granted by the State of Tennessee.
The act in question is identical with the act of the Virginia
Assembly before given.
It was supposed that the boundary line thus established would
forever settle this question, biit by the year 1856 it seems that the
old controversy was renewed, and in that year the General Assem-
bly of Virginia passed an act appointing two commissioners to
meet commissioners appointed by the State of Tennessee to again
run and mark the boundary line between the States. The General
Assembly of Tennessee did not take action in this matter until
the first of March, 1858, on which day an act was passed au-
thorizing the Governor of the State of Tennessee to appoint two
commissioners to meet the commissioners appointed by the Com-
monwealth of Virginia to re-run and mark the line of 1802, and
said commissioners were directed to cause monuments of stone to
be permanently planted on said line where there is now growing
timber by which the line may be plainly marked, said stones to
be planted at least one in every five miles.
The commissioners thus appointed were given full power and
authority to re-run and mark the line of 1802, and it was made
their duty to employ a field party to consist of one engineer, one
surveyo'r, one back-sighter, one axe-man and such others as were
necessary, the said engineer and surveyor to be well qualified to
make said survey upon scientific principles, said commissioners to
superintend the work.
The Governor of Virginia appointed James C. Black and
Leonidas Baugh commissioners upon the part of Virginia, and
the Governor of Tennessee appointed Samuel Milligan and George
B. McClelland commissioners upon the part of Tennessee, to run
and re-mark said line. The commissioners thus appointed began
work on the 29th of September, 1858, and on the 3d of December,
1859, submitted their report to the executives of the State of
Tennessee and the State of Virginia. Their report was in the
following words and figures, to-wit:
Washington County, 1777-1870. 715
"To His Excellency the Governor of Virginia:
"In obedience to commissions respectively conferred upon us
under an act of the legislature of the State of Virginia passed
the 18th day of March, 1856, and an act of the legislature of the
State of Tennessee, passed the 1st day of March, 1858, authorizing
the executives of each of said States respectively to appoint com-
missioners 'to again run and mark' the boundary line between
the States of Virginia and Tennessee, we the undersigned com-
missioners, proceeded to discharge the duties assigned us, and beg
leave to submit the following as our joint action : Our first object
was to determine the duty with which we were charged under the
acts of both states, which we found to be substantially the same
and both exceedingly vague and indefinite.
"But the manifest intention of the legislature of Virginia and
Tennessee was, in our opinion, to ascertain and re-mark the com-
promise line of 1802, but the laws evidently drafted without a
loiowledge of the facts as we found them to exist, imposed upon
us obligations which it was practically impossible to comply with.
"We were required to begin the line 'on the summit of the
mountain commonly known by the name of the White Top, where
the northeastern corner of Tennessee terminates' and thence to
run due west 'to the top of the Cumberland Mountain where the
southwestern corner of Virginia ends.' This line, by the laws of
Virginia and Tennessee, Vt^as declared to be on the parallel of
36 30' north latitude, and midway between Walker's and Hender-
son's lines run in 1779.
"With these legal restraints upon us, after engaging the services
of Professor Eevel Keith, an experienced astronomer, and Charles
S. Williams, a practical engineer, with an efficient field party, we,
on the 29th day of September, 1858, repaired to the field, but ob-
servation and experiment soon demonstrated the utter impractica-
bility of a literal compliance with the requirements of the law.
"We began the experimental work at the town of Bristol, a small
village situated on the compromise line of 1802, at a point where
there was no controversy as to the locality of the line, and our first
observation at that point showed the latitude to be 36° 36' nearly,
which upon calculation we found to be a little over six statute
miles north of the latitude contemplated by law. Further obser-
vations and experiments all along the line furnished nearly similar
716 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
results. In the region of the White Top mountain we met with
still more insuperable difficulties to a strict compliance with the
requirements of the law. The summit of this mountain, which is
well defined and elevated above the surrounding mountains, we
found to 1)6 about three miles, a northeast course from the termina-
tion of the marked timber on the line; and at right angles with
the parallel 36 30' north latitude, a little over eight miles north
of said parallel. The northeastern corner of Tennessee was desig-
nated by no monument, nor was there any evidence on the ground
by which we could determine the corner or the beginning of the
compromise line of 1802.
"The marks on the timber which were found throughout the
whole line ceased on a spur of a dividing range of mountains that
connects the Stone, Pond and White Top mountains called the
'Divide' from the fact that the waters flow from it both east and
west, and about one mile from the summit of this dividing range.
"At the point where the marks on the line of 1803 terminate
there is no marked corner or any change in appearance oi the
marks on the timber indicating a purpose to establish a corner or
beginning point of the line, nor is there any marked timber between
that point and the summit of the 'Divide,' although thickly
wooded, except on the summit, where it appears to have been cleared
twenty or twenty-five years ago and is now under cultivation.
"Under this perplexing state of facts w© were neither able to
comply strictly with the requirements of the law or definitely to
settle the 'northeastern corner of Tennessee,' or tO' establish the
beginning point of the line we were required to trace.
"The Virginia commissioners insisted that the line sliould be
extended east from the end of the marked line on the little moun-
tain south of the Denton Yall'ey to' the top of the 'Divide,' because
it would be but a continuation of the line from Cumberland Gap,
which is to that point about midway between Walker's and Hen-
derson's lines, and 1)ecause the existence of a cross line running
south 22° west was not even known, or the line from the top of
the little mountain westward to the river heretofore recognized as
the boundary, or any part of it.
"And the Tennessee commissioners, that the northern line as
connected by the cross line with the southern should be extended to
the 'summit of the Divide,' and the northeastern corner of Tennos-
Washington County, 1777-1870. 717
see there established^ because it is the only unbroken and con-
tinuously marked line ascertained;, and the summit of the 'Divide'
presents the only natural monument that reasonably conforms tO'
the commissioners' purpose to establish one at the end of the
marks on the line. No conclusive agreement could be made, and
wo were compelled to leave the point of beginning an open ques-
tion.
"After making these and various other experiments calculated
to determine the character of the line and its offsets, and taking
the latitude at different points between Bristol and White Top
mountain, and also at Cumberland Gap in the fall of 1858, we
found from the inclemency of the weather and the advanced
season, that it would be manifestly to the interest of both States
to suspend operations until the following summer, when the season
w^ould be more propitious for the progress of the work.
"On the 7th day of June, 1859, we again, with our 'Surveyor
and field part}'-,' assembled at Bristol, and after determining to re-
trace and remark the compromise line of 1802, w^e resumed the
w^ork and accurately ran, re-marked and measured the old line of
1802 with all of its offsets and irregularities, as shown in the sur-
veyor's report herein incorporated and on the accompanying map
herewith submitted.
SURVEYOE'S EEPORT.
To Leonidas Bciugli. and James C. Blade, of Virginia, and Samuel
Milligan and George B. McClelland, of Tennessee, commission-
ers for running and re-marMng the boundary line hetween their
respective States:
Gentlemen, — Herewith I submit a map of the boundary line
between the States of Virginia and Tennessee, as liaced and re-
marked by the field party in my charge under your direction.
After a thorough search through the country in the vicinity of
the mountain "commonly know^n as White Top," the line marked
by the commissioners of 1802 was found marked upon a northern
spur of the ridge known as the "Divide."
This ridge divides the waters flowing into New River on the
east froin those flowing into Holston River on the west. The
point wdiere the line was found is about a mile northwestwardly
from the residence of j\fr. Wdls Blcvins, upon the "Divide" and
about three miles southwesterly from the summit of White Top.
718 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Although diligent search was made, no trace of a line was found
east of this point, neither, on the other hand, was there the least
indication of a corner, the line being marked as elsewhere. Traced
westerly to Denton's Valley the line varies, generally one and
one-half (1%) degrees north from a truly west course as found
by astronomical observation. In Denton's valley an offset was
found, the line bearing soi;th 22 west (by the needle), for a dis-
tance of 8,700 feet, to a point upon a high spur of the little moun-
tain immediately west of Mill Creek. From the southern ter-
minus of this offset the line runs upon a course very closely ap-
proximating due west to a point in the eastern boundary line of
the town of Bristol, where a small variation was found. The line
was so adjusted, however, as to coincide with the central line of the
main street of Bristol, the magnetic course being south 89° 40'
west, and so continued to the west branch of Beaver Creek.
From Bristol west to Cumberland Gap, the line generally pre-
serves a due west course, as determined by astronomical observa-
tions, with the following exceptions :
1. On the farm of Jolin Hickman, west of Bristol, the line
varies to North 821^ west (magnetic course), for a distance of
310 feet.
2. At the crossing of Wallen's ridge, where an offset of 1,457
feet occurs, which was connected by an oblique line, as shown on
the map.
3. Near Cumberland Gap, where the direction of the line varies
to north 88 west (magnetic course) for a distance of 6,922 feet.
The line was found plainly marked where the timber remained
standing, was readily found through most of its course and is
subject to minor deviations incidental to long compass lines, gen-
erally, however, preserving a due west course.
The standing timber along the line was marked in five chops
in the form of :
The total length of line as run and remeasured with a level
chain is 113 miles.
Eespectfully submitted.
Charles S. Williams,
Surveyor Boundary Commissioner.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 719
The territory in the form of a triangle, lying between the top
of Little mountain and the red lines on the map in what is known
as "Denton's Valley/' has heretofore been recognized by the citi-
zens residing therein as included in the State of Virginia, and the
top of Little mountain is recognized as the boundary line. To this
supposed boundary both States have heretofore exercised jurisdic-
tion, and north of the summit of the mountain the citizens resid-
ing in the triangle have derived their land titles from the State of
Virginia; they have there voted, been taxed, and exercised all the
rights of citizens of that State. The line, though plainly marked
from the top of Little mountain westward nearly to the river, and
the cross line at Denton's Valley running south twenty-two west
and connecting the north and south lines, seem not to have been
recognized as the boundary line, the very existence even of the
cross line being unknown until we discovered it; but it is also well
defined and so distinctly marked as to leave no doubt that it was
run and marked in 1802. With this single exception, the line as
traced by us has been, as far as we are able to ascertain, recognized
throughout its entire length for fifty-seven years as the true boun-
dary line between the States of Virginia and Tennessee. The lati-
tude, as marked on the map east of Bristol and at Cumberland Gap,
was carefully determined by Professor Keith with a "zenith tran-
sit" or transit instrument, the most modern and improved astro-
nomical instrument now in use, and may be relied upon as per-
fectly accurate, except at Bristol, and that was ascertained under
disadvantageous circumstances, but it is believed to be nearly cor-
rect. West of Bristol, except at Cumberland Gap, the latitude was
determined by Lieutenant Francis T. Byan, of the corps of United
States topographical engineers, with a "sextant," and may also be
relied upon as correctly determined.
The line was traced with a "theodolite," and great care observed
thrdughout correctly to ascertain its true bearing, offsets and ir-
regularities. We found the old line marked with "five chops in the
form of a diamond," and we varied ours by using only four chops,
and placed them on the tree somewhat in the form of the letters
wye: \x as shown in the surveyor's report. The fore and aft
marks were placed truly on the line, and th'e side marks were placed
respectively on that portion of the timber next the true line.
Where we found no growing timber we caused monuments of stone
720 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6.
to be erected, "firaily planted" one foot and a half in the ground
and extending two and a half feet above the ground, well dressed
and marked on the north side with the letter V, and the south
side with the letter T, so that the line may be readily identified
throughout its entire length.
At Cumberland Gap the line terminated on a chestnut oak on the
summit of a mountain, at which there is also marked a monument
of stone. At the eastern end of the line where the marked timber
ceases w^e placed a monument of stone, but we put no inscription
upon it, indicating that point to be the "northeastern corner of
Tennessee" for the reason hereinbefore assigned. We deem it pro-
per further to state that we have indicated on the map at different
points the reputed locality of the Walker line, but we found no
marked timber indicating its position, except at the western end
of the line, which we have truly represented on the map. We saw
no trace of the Henderson line at any point, and consequently were
unable accurately to represent its position on the map. Its reputed
position is represented on the map at a point near Bristol. We
further beg leave to state that the general course of the line lies
over a rough and mountainous country, almost inaccessible, es-
pecially the eastern portion of it, and its survey was attended with
an amount of labor and privation which we are sure no one can
justly appreciate but those who have actually undergone them.
But we felt justified in stating that we spared nO' pains or labor
accurately to trace and mark the line, as well as to show the true
state of facts that surround it, that the legislatures, both of Ten-
nessee and Virginia, can act understandingly in ratifying or re-
jecting it, as in their wisdom they may think right and proper.
All of which is most respectfully submitted.
Sam Milligan^
George E. McClellan^
Tennessee Commissioners.
Leonidas Baugh^
James C. Black,
Virginia Commissioners.
December 30, 1859.
This report was disapproved and rejected by the General As-
sembly of Virginia on the 9th of March, 1860, and the Governor
of the Commonwealth was authorized and directed to settle with
Washington County, 1777-1870. 731
Bangh and Black for services rendered, and to appoint one or more
commissioners to run again and re-mark the line between Virginia
and Tennessee in strict conformity with the compact of 1802,
The result of this effort to run and re-mark the line of 1802
having failed, the entire question was again open for discussion
and controversy.
In the year 18G9, the superintendent of the United States Coast
Survey directed Kichard B. Cutts to proceed to Bristol, with in-
structions to observe the solar eclipse on August 7th, and to con-
nect the station at Bristol with one or more of the monuments
which mark the boundary line in that vicinity. Pursuant to in-
structions, Mr. Cutts proceeded to Bristol, and, after having dis-
charged his duties, made the following report to his superior.
"Washington^ D. C,
"December 30th, 1869.
"Profr. Beri'j'n Pierce, Sup't. U. S. Coast Survey:
"Sir, — In yO'Ur letter of instructions to observe the Solar Eclipse
of August 7th, at or near Bristol, Tenn., you also directed me to
comply, if practicable, with the request made by the President of
Washingion College, Virginia, to connect the station at Bristol,
the position of which would be astronomically determined, with
one or more of the monuments which mark the boundary line of
the State of Virginia in that vicinity, so that the longitude and
latitude thereof may be accurately known.
"Ascertaining soon after my arrival at Bristol that the connec-
tion could be readily made, the work was undertaken and com-
pleted without interfering with the regular duties assigned to the
party. Signals, which were visible from the astronomical station,
were erected on the boundary, or main street separating Goodson
in Virginia from Bristol in Tennessee, and the connection effected
by means of a measured base and triangulation. In view of the
fact, however, that the signals, or monuments, were placed on a
line which, though recognized as the boundary between Virginia
and Tennessee, has not been, in the opinion of many, definitely set-
tled as such, and as the results of the observations and triangula-
tion, made under my direction, may be used as authority in the
discussion of the question should it again arise, I beg leave to show
the character of the operation by which the direction of the line,
and the latitude and longitude of the monument were obtained.
722 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
and to describe, by a short historic sketch hereto appended, the
special line referred to, there having been three or more lines run
by the interested parties at different periods,
"The instruments employed to determine the exact geographical
position of the observatory on Lancaster Hill, Goodson, in connec-
tion with the Eclipse of August 7th, were a Transit and Zenith
Telescope, each mounted on a solid pier composed of brick and
cement. The latitude was determined by 12 pairs of stars, and
the longitude by the transmission of time signals to the Naval Ob-
servatory at Wasliington, on three nights, the telegraph wires hav-
ing been connected and placed at -our disposal for that purpose.
The observations to secure those results were made by Assistant A.
T. Mosman during nine nights, between the 28th of July and the
7th of August.
"To connect the Zenith Telescope with the boundary, a base was
measured and a triangulation executed, including two stations on
the line recognized by the inhabitants as the boundary of 1802, and
as specially pointed out by Thomas D. Walthall, Esq., of Bristol,
an engineer and surveyor well informed on the subject.
"The azimuth of the line was derived from measurements made
between U7'sa Minor at its upper culmination and three of the
principal triangle sides.
"Before leaving Bristol, it was understood that permanent monu-
ments would be erected by the municipal authorities of Bristol and
Goodson, at two points determined on the boundary. The piers on
Lancaster Hill were placed, by letter, under the protection of the
Mayor of Goodson.
"Upon examination of the charters, agreements and legislative
enactments referring to the dividing line between Virginia on the
one side and North Carolina and Tennessee on the other, as fully
quoted and explained in the accompanying appendix, it will be
ascertained that from the date of the second charter of King Charles
II., in 1665, to the latest legislation in regard to its demarcation in
1860, the southern boundary of Virginia has been supposed to be
situated, as it was in part directed to be traced, on the parallel of
36° 30'.
"''The joint' commission which was organized in 1779 was di-
rected to start upon the parallel of 36 30', and to continue on that
parallel to the Tennessee river. As the respective commissioners
WasMnyton County, 1717-1810. 'i'23
differed in the residts of th'eir observations, two lines were run,
known as the Walker and Henderson lines, neither of which was
correct. Finally as a kind of compromise and under the supposi-
tion that the true line must certainly be between the two then in
dispute, otlier commissioners were appointed in 1800, with full
powers from A^irginia and rather limited powers from Tennessee,
and under the direction of this Joint Commission a supposed mid-
dle line was then marked, which, line was ratified, established and
confirmed by Virginia an the 22d of January, 1803, and by Ten-
nessee in the month of November following. This line is neither
on the parallel of 30 30' nor midway between the Walker and Hen-
derson Lines, and yet it must be recognized, as the law directs, 'as
the true, certain and real boundary between the two States.'
"Owing, however, to the lapse of time, this line has become 'in-
distinct, uncertain and to some extent unknown,' and in conse-
quence thereof Virginia, ni 1856, appointed Coiumissioners to
'again run and mark said line.' In 1858, the State of Tennessee
responded to the A^irginia legislation by authorizing the appoint-
ment of Commissioners for a similar purpose, and also the organi-
zation of a Field Party, to consist of an Engineer and Surveyor,
well qualified to make said survey upon scientific principles.
This last direction would appear to confer an indirect but very
necessary authority to run a new line, in case the old one could
not be identified. The Commissioners duly reported their proceed-
ings and acts to their respective States. In 1860, Virginia disap-
proved of and rejected the line thus re-run and marked, and, by the
same resolution of the General Assembly, the Governor was em-
powered to appoint one or more commissioners to again run the
boundary as defined in the Statute of January 22nd, 1803. This
is the last act of legislation referring to the boundary line between
Virginia and Tennessee, and from this it has been inferred that
the location of the line has not been definitely settled.
"The following table and memoranda show the results of the
operations at Bristol. The latitudes of the Henderson and Wal-
ker lines at points situated respectively Xorth and South of Bris-
tol, w^ere computed from data supplied by Thomas D. Walthall,
Esq.:
724
South we.si Virginia, 17'iG-1786.
When
Run.
Supposed
Latitude.
True
Latitude.
True
Longitude.
Henderson, or North
Carolina line
Walker or Virginia
line
1779
1779
1802
1802
36° 36' 00'^
36° 36' 00"
36° 36' 00"
36° 36' 00"
36° 36' 48. "
36° 34' 25.5"
36° 35' 38.9"
36° 40' 40.0"
The Middle line,
East Mont
The Middle line,
West Mont
82° 10' 40.00"
82° 11' 25.12"
"The azimuth, or direction of the line, from East to West monu-
ment is 91°, 51', 51", or North 88°, 09', 00" West true.
"It will be perceived that the direction of the Middle line, the
present acknowledged boundary, is nearly two degrees north of a
due west course, and if this direction should have been continued
to the Cumberland Mountains, a very large wedge of Virginia ter-
ritory must have been cut ofT. In fact, we fmd from the numerous
and reliable observations made for latitude, in 1859, at Newlee's
sulphur spring, at or close to the Cumberland Gap, as published in
the 'Eeport of the Commissioners appointed to mark the boundary
line between the States of Kentucky and Tennessee' that the South-
west corner of Virginia is situated in latitude 36°, 36', 00.94", or
6', 91", North of the true line.
"According to the observations made in connection with the sur-
vey of the coast of the United States, the correct latitude of the
line where it crosses Knott's Island, situated about three miles
west of the site of old Currituck Inlet, is 36°, 33', 15", and not 36°,
31', as determined in 1728; and the correct latitude of the line,
west of the Alleghany mountains, where it separates Goodson from
Bristol, is 36°, 35', 39", .5 and not 36°, 31', upon which parallel
it was intended by all the parties interested that the line should
be run. — These discrepancies are not a matter of surprise in view
of the defective method adopted for tracing the parallel, of the in-
ferior class of astronomical and surveying instruments employed
by the old surveyors, and of the more than probable errors commit-
ted in running the line, due, in part, to a want of care in determin-
ing the magnetic variation. From the data, already presented, it
may be fairly inferred that if the different surveys had been con-
ducted as they would be to-day, the State of Virginia would now
Washington County, 1177-1870. 725
include within its limits at least 800 square miles of additional
territory.
"'X sketch of the triangulation, and the computations of the tri-
angle sides, latitudes, longitudes, and azimuths, are attached to
this report.
"I am, Kespectfully yours,
"ElCHARD D. CUTTS."
In the year 1871, the General Assembly of Virginia passed an
act providing for the appointment of commissioners to ascertain
and locate the true boundary line between this State and the State
of Tennessee, and in the year 188G a similar act was adopted, but
tlie State of Tennessee persistently refusing to take any action,
looking to a settlement of the question, the General Assembly of
Virginia, on the 31st day of January, 1890, passed an act repeal-
ing the act of the General Assembly of Virginia passed on the 22d
of Jan\iary, 1803, conllrming and establishing the boundary line
l-)etween this State and the State of Tennessee as ascertained by the
rejjort of the commissioners appointed in that year, and declared
tlie true line of this State to be in latitude 36°, 30' north; and that
tlio line agreed upon between the States on the 22d of January,
1803, was erroneous by reason of mistakes in fact caused by de-
fective instruments and incompetent observers, and that the same is
not obligatory on the State. In the meantime, on the Ttli day of
Januar}^, 1890, a suit had been instituted in the Supreme CWrt of
the United States by the Commonwealth of Virginia through her
attorneys, E. A. Ayers and William F. Ehea vs. the Commonwealth
of Tennessee, the object of the suit being to have the Supreme
Court of the United States declare the true line between the States
to be 36°, 30' north latitude, as provided for in the original char-
ter of the colonies of Virginia and ISTorth Carolina.
Numerous depositions were taken in this case, and the Supreme
Court of the United States, on the 3d day of April, 1893, rendered
their opinion, and decided that Virginia was estopped by her ac-
tion in the year 1803, and declaring the true line between the States
to be the compromise line of 1803.*
Controversies between the citizens of Virginia and the citizens
of Tennessee at this time and for some time previous thereto were
448 U. S. Reports, page 503.
72Q Southwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
of frequent occurrence, and oftentimes seriously threatened the
breach of tlie peace.
In the year 1889, N. t. Wills, Joseph Southerland and R. E.
Butler undertook to take possession of a tract of land situated near
Green Cove in this county, the property of Marion Miller and the
heirs of George W. Hopkins, deceased, and continued their efforts
until the year 1892, in which year Marion Miller obtained an in-
junction from the Judge of the Circuit Court of this county re-
straining the said Wills, Southerland and Butler from interfering
with said property, and in the month of October, 1893, the de-
fendants answered in said suit. Xumcrous depositions were taken,
and on the 24th of ]\Iay, 1895, the judge of the Circuit Court of
this county rendered an opinion, holding that the summit of White
Top, as the beginning of the compromise line of 1802, did not
mean, nor never was intended to mean, the top of the highest peak
of that mountain, but that it meant the top of the mountain at
the point where the compromise line run by the commissioners of
1802 began. But the court, in view of the fact that the corner
where the line of 1802 actually began was uncertain, ordered and
decreed that the following issues out of chancery should be tried
at the bar of the court, namely :
First. Does the compromise line of 1802, between the States of
Virginia and Tennessee, as located and established by General Jo-
seph Martin, Creed Taylor and Peter Johnston, commissioners on
the part of Virginia, and Moses Fisk, General John Sevier and
General George Eutledge, commissioners on the part of Tennessee,
lie south or north of the lands in controversy ?
Second. At what point did it actually begin, and in what direc-
tion was it actually run and located imtil it passed west of the
lands now claimed by complainant and in controversy in this cause ?
This issue was tried by a jury, composed of E. P. Carson, W. 0.
Booker, H. B. Eoberts, D. A. Jones, Jerry Whitaker, Thomas H.
Alters, J. C. Ha^-ter, George Keller, James Ilagy, W. F. Arnett,
Eobert Miller, and James Fields.
This jury, after hearing all the evidence produced by the \ya.r-
ties, returned the following verdict :
"1st. We, the jury, find and decide that the compromise line of
1802-'03 runs soutli of the land in controversy.
"2nd. The jury further find that the point where that line be-
Washington County, 1777-1870. ''i'2'i
gan is on the summit of Pond Mountain, and runs due west be-
yond the lands in controversy."
The defendants jnoved the court to set aside this verdict of the
jury and grant them a new trial, and the court, in the month of
January, 1896, delivered an opinion disagreeing with the jury in
their conclusions and adjudging that the top of Pond mountain was
not the summit of White Top, where the said line began, and fixed
said line north, instead of south, of the land in controversy, and
declared the land in controversy to be in the State of Tennessee
and without the jurisdiction of the court.
From this opinion of the court the plaintiif, Marion Miller, ap-
pealed to the Court of Appeals of Virginia, and that court, on the
18th of November, 1897, delivered an opinion reversing the judg-
ment of the Circuit Court of Washington county and fixing the
Ijoundary line between the States of Virginia and Tennessee as a
straight line, beginning on the to]) of White Top mountain where
the northeastern comer of Tennessee terminates and following a due
west course midway l)etween Walker's and Henderson's lines to the
top of the Cuml)erland mountain where the southwestern corner of
Virginia terminates.*
By this decision the contention of the citizens of the State of
Virginia was sustained, and the position of the claimants of lands
under titles derived from the State ol Virginia was greatly
strengthened.
Thus matters stood when, on the 30th day of April, 1900, a
consent decree was entered by the Supreme Court of the United
States in the suit of Tennessee, complainant, vs. the State of Vir-
ginia, defendant, directing commissioners to ascertain, retrace, re-
mark and re-establish the boundary line between the State of Ten-
nessee and the State of VirgiDia as fixed in the year 1803.
W. C. Hodgkins, J. B. Baylor and Andrew H. Buchanan were
appointed commissioners to execute said decree.
Tliese commissioners proceeded to execute this decree, and on
the 5th day of Januarv, 1903, filed their report in the clerk's office
of the Supreme Court of the United States, which report is in the
words and figures following, to-wit :
"92 Virginia Reports, page 337.
728 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
To the Honorable the Chief Justice and Associate Justices of the
Supreme Court of the United States:
Your commissioners, appointed by decree of tliis honorable court,
dated April 30, 1900, to ascertain, retrace, re-mark and re-estab-
lish the boundary line established between the States of Virginia
and Tennessee, by the compact of 1803, which was actually run
and located under proceedings had by the two States, in 1801-1803,
and was then marked with five chops in the shape of a diamond,
and Avhich ran from White Top mountain to Cumberland Gap, re-
spectfully represent that they have completed the duties assigned
to them by the said decree of April 30, 1900, that they have re-
marked and retraced the said boundary line as originally run and
marked with five chops in the shape of a diamond in the year 1803,
and that for the better securing of the same they have placed upon
the said line, besides other durable marks, monuments of cut lime-
stone, four and a half feet long and seven inches square on top,
with V's cut on their north faces and T's on their south faces, set
three and a half feet in the ground, conveniently located as herein-
after more fully described, so that the citizens of each State and
others, by reasonable diligence, may readily find the true location
of said boundary ; all of wliich is more particularly set forth in the
detailed report of their operations which your commissioners here-
with beg to submit, together with two maps explanatory of the
same, a list of the several permanent monuments and other durable
marks, and a complete bill of costs and charges. x\nd your com-
missioners further pray that tliis honorable court accept and con-
firm this report; that the line as marked on the ground by said
commissioners in the years 1901 and 1903 be declared to be the
real, certain and true boundary between the States of Tennessee
and Virginia; that your commissioners be allowed their expenses
and reasonable charges for their own services in these premises, as
shown on the bill of costs which forms a part of this report; and
finally that your commissioners be discharged from further pro-
ceedings in these premises.
[seal.] William C. Hodgkins^
Commissioner.
[seal.] Jaisles B. Baylor^
Commissioner.
[seal.] Andrew H. Buchanan,
Commissioner.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 729
Detailed report of the operations of the commission appointed
by the Supreme Court of the United States (April 30, 1900,) to
retrace and re-mark the boundary line between the States of Ten-
nessee and Virginia.
At the date of th'e above decree and for several months there-
after the State of Virginia Imd no funds available for the proceed-
ings ordered by the court, and none could be had until there could
be a session of the State T^egislature to make the needed appro-
priation. It was, therefore, necessary for your commissioners to
seek an extension of the time within which they might make their
report, and, upon the motion of the attorney-general of Virginia,
an extension was granted until the next term of court.
At a session of the General Assembly of Virginia held in the
winter of 1900-1901, the sum of five thousand dollars was appro-
priated for the purpose of paying Virginia's share of the expenses
of this boundary survey. The Tennessee Legislature had pre-
viously made a like appropriation.
Your commissioners, therefore, made preparations for beginning
the execution of their duties under your decree of April 30, 1900,
as early in the season of 1901 as the weather conditions should per-
mit.
The commission held its first meeting at Washington, D. C, on
May 16, 1901, and organized by choosing William C. Hodgkins,
of the State of Massachusetts, as chairman, James B. Baylor, of
the State of Virginia, as secretary, and Andrew H. Buchanan, of
the State of Tennessee, as treasurer.
At this meeting there was a full discussion of the problem pre-
sented and of the method of work which might be most suitable
under all the conditions. Arrangements were also made for pro-
curing the necessary camp outfit and supplies.
Through the courtesy of the superintendent of the United States
Coast and Geodetic Survey your commissioners M-ere able to pro-
cure from that bureau, without charge, not only the outfit of tents
and camp furniture required for the shelter and comfort of the
party, but also valuable instruments needed for the survey.
This relieved the States of Tennessee and Virginia of a consider-
able expense which would otherwise have been unavoidable.
The two States were spared another lieavy item of expense by tlv/
fact that each of your commissioners is a civil engineer and entirolv
730 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6.
familiar witli work of this nature. It was, therefore, unnecessary
to follow the usual course of employing engineers or surveyors to
carry out the field M^ork under the direction of the commissioners.
Instead of that, your commissioners themselves conducted all the
field work, hiring only such rodmen, axemen, etc., as were necessary
from time to time. By such methods and hy exercising rigid
economy in all their expenditures, your commissioners have heen
able to complete the entire work, including the setting of cut-stone
monuments and also including the amount charged for their own
remuneration for the sum of $9,^175.99, which is but little more
than the amount charged to the State of Virginia alone by the joint
commission of 1858-1859.
It having been decided at the first meeting of the commission
that the most convenient place for beginning field operations would
l)e the city of Bristol, which is located directly upon the boundary
line, the commission adjourned to that place.
Field-work was begun on May 22, 1901, with the examination of
a portion of the line east of Bristol, where a number of trees were
found which bore the marks of the surveys of 1802 and 1858-'59.
As there have been considerable controversy and confiicting testi-
mony in regard to the nature of these old marks, it may be well to
show by diagrams and photographs the actual arrangements and
appearance of those of both years, as well as of the somewhat dif-
ferent mark which was used for the present re-marking by your
commissioners :
1802. 1859. 1902.
_ = _ W ^J
AVliile the marks made in 1858-'59 are still numerous in forested
areas and are generally easily distinguishable, those made in 1803
are becoming scarce, and sometimes are barely discernible when
found.
This is shown in the accompanying photograph of a large Avhite
oak tree, upon which the marks of 1858-'59 can readily be traced,
while only three of those made in 1802 can be distinguished, and
those with difficulty. The marks of 1802 were apparently made
with a small and lic'bt hatchet, and on manv trees which have a
Washington County, 1777-1810. 731
thick and rough bark the hatchet does not seem to have reached
the wood, and in such cases the gradual exfoliation of the bark
has often nearh^ or entirely obliterated the mark. Where the wood
was wounded a small burr has formed, which can nearly always be
recognized; but cuts which did not completely penetrate the bark
have sometimes disappeared.
The marks left l3y the survey of 1858-'59 were found of very
great value as guides to tlie older "diamond" marks of 1802. Both
marks were often found on the same tree, and it was a rare occur-
rence to find the diamond mark without the mark of 1859 either
above or below it. In fact, it was very soon noticed that the mere
fact of finding the mark of 1858-'59 either above or below the nor-
mal position on a tree was an almost certain indication that a dia-
mond mark had been found there at the date of tlie latter marking,
even though, through tlie action of time and tlie elements, all ves-
tiges of it may now have disappeared. Since the date of the last
survey, very many marked trees have been destroyed through va-
rious agencies, especially since the more rapid development of this
section in the recent years has caused a greater demand for lum-
ber, and in some places the trees bearing the old marks are so far
apart and the marks themselves are so faint that great trouble and
delay would often have been experienced in tlie search for these old
marks had it not been for the aid afforded by the marks of 1858-'59,
which always proved reliable guides by which tO' find the older
marks.
In this connection it may not b'e inappropriate for your commis-
sioners to state that they everywhere found that the joint commis-
sion of 1859 did its work in a careful and conscientious manner,
and that they believe its line, as marked on the gTowing timber, is
identical with that marked by the joint commission of 1802, and
that full credence should be given to statements of fact in the- re-
port of that survey.
From a point about a mile and a quarter east of Bristol the line
was traced without difficulty, other than that due to the broken na-
ture of the country traversed, as far as the beginning of what is
commonly known as the Denton Valley offset.
At this point occurs the greatest and most remarkable irregu-
larity in the whole course of this line, there being a deflection from
the direct course of ()G°, 10' for a distance of 8715. H feet. The
732 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
portion of the boundary east of the offset is further north than that
west of the offset, so that the deflection is to the south in going
westward from the eastern end of the line, the direction in which
it was originally run out, or to the north in working eastward from
Bristol, as was done in the present survey for reasons of conveni-
ence. In either case the deflection is to the left hand ; but it is not
the same in each case, as the two portions of the line east and west
of the offsets are not exactly parallel to each other. This differ-
ence of direction amounts to 1°, 30', as shown on the map of the
line accompanying this report.
Owing to the long controversy over this offset and the persistent
assertions of certain parties that marked timber would be found on
the eastern prolongation of the portion of the line extending from
Bristol to Denton's valley, if the same were run out, your commis-
sioners felt obliged, in order to settle th'e question for all time, to
run out this line and make a careful search for marked timber
along its course. This was accordingly done and a careful exami-
nation of the timber on each side of the transit line was made as
the work progressed, but with only negative results.
Although several weeks were spent in running this line across
the series of very rough and heavily-timbered mountains lying
between Denton's valley and Pond Mountain, near the comer of
ISForth Carolina, and although every story brought to the commis-
sioners by people interested in the result was carefully examined,
your commissioners were utterly unable to find or have pointed out
to them one authentic mark of the line 1803, either on this line or
anywhere in its vicinity.
On the other hand, the "offset line" and the portion of the line
running eastward from the offset toi the vicinity of the White Top
mountain Avere found well marked; both the 1803 and the 1858-'59
marks were found at frequent intervals.
In order to be assured that tliese marks were authentic, blocks
were cut from several of these trees at different points on said
offset line, and the ages of the marks were determined by counting
the rings of the annual growth.
These tests showed that the marks were of the supposed age.
The ages of the most important marks were verified by the United
States Bureau of Forestry. As was found in 1858-'59, the marking
of tlic timber ceased (or began) on a comparatively low eminence.
Washington County, 1177-1810. 733
kuowu as Burnt Hill, which from the neighboriug heights of White
Top or Pond mountain seems to be in the bottom of a hollow.
The apparent discrepancy between this situation and the lan-
guage of the report of the joint commissioners of 1803, which
reads : '^'Beginning on the summit of the mountain generally Icnown
as the White Top mountain/' etc., has led some to suppose that
the line should be extended further east, to the summit of the so-
called "divide" or watershed between the tributaries of the Holston
and New rivers.
There seems, however, nothing to support this theory except the
somewhat hazy idea that the eastern end or point of beginning of
this line ought to be on a summit.
As a matter of fact, the actual end of the line of Burnt Hill is
on quit© as much of a summit as if it had been on the "divide,"
which in this place is so low and fiat as to be scarcely perceptible
as an elevation of any importance. It certainly could never be sup-
posed to be the summit of White Top mountain, which towers far
above it, its huge, dome-like bulk filling the northeastern horizon.
No marked trees of 1802 or 1858-''59 could be found east of
Burnt Hill, though the line was produced through heavy timber of
original growth to the "divide," and careful search was made for
them. The same condition was found in 1859, as reported by the
commission of that year. A point which that commission seems
to have overlooked is the important fact that the eastern end of
the marked line at Burnt Hill is almost exactly in line between
the comer of North Carolina, on Pond Mountain, and the sum-
mit of White Top mountain. What more likely than that the
commissioners of 1803, who had agreed to lay out a line equally
distant from the older lines, known as Walker's and Henderso^n's
and beginning on the summit of the mountain generally known
as the White Top mountain, should begin at the point where the
Walker line reached the northwestern corner of North Carolina,
and where accordingly the jurisdiction of Tennessee should begin,
and run thence in the direction of the most important peak to the
northward and eastward until they reached the desired middle
point between the lines of Walker and Henderson, and from that
point started on their westerly course. It is hard to understand
why they should have omitted to mark this part of the line; but
this small bit of boundary extending from the northeast corner of
;34 Southivest Virginia, l7Jt6-1786.
Tennessee to the northwest coi-ner of Xorth Carolina seems \o have
been somewhat overlooked in more recent proceedings. Yonr com-
missioners respectfully recommend that the straight line between
these two points be declared to be the boundary, believing as they
do, in the absence of any marks to the contrary, that this was the
original and trne line. All of this section is composed of very
nigged and densely-wooded mountains with but a scanty popula-
tion.
The progress of the work in this mountainous anl almost inac-
cci-sible region M'as delayed not only by the nature of the country
and by the fact that in this very worst part of the whole line it was
necessary to run out these two independent lines, doubling the labor
to be expended, but also by the inifortunately rainy weather which
was experienced. The frequent and heavy rains often stopped
field work, washed the few roads so l)adly that they became almost
impassable, and raised the streams so high that sometimet? for
days at a time it was impossible to ford them.
It was not until Se])teml)er 21st tbat your commissioners were
able to close woi'k in the White Top region and return to Bristol
to start westward from that place towards Cumberland Gap.
For the remainder of the season, however, both the weather and
the nature of the country wore mucli more favorable for field
operations, and excellent progress was made, though it was impo'^-
sible to complete the work before the a])])roach of wintei'.
So far as the portion of the Ijoundary passing through the cen-
tral portion of the city of Bristol is concerned, the labors of your
commissioners were forestalled by a special act of the General
Assembly of the State of Tennessee, approved January 28, 1901,
ceding to the State of Virginia the northern half of the main
street of the two cities. The General Assembly of Virginia ac-
cepted the cession by an act approved February 9, 1901, and the
action of the two legislatures was subsc^quently ratified by the Con-
gress and approved by the President of the United States March
3, 1901. This cession covers, however, but a small part of the
boundary, extending only from the northwest corner of the old
town of Bristol on the west to the western boundary of the Bristol
cemetery on the east. As it is important to guard against the
possible renewal of this long-standing controversy, and as the town
is already extending beyond the above limits, it was deemed ]iroper
Washington. Vouniij. 1777-1S70. 735
to mark the old diamond line by monuments, just as if there had
been no legal change in the boundary for this short distance. But
your commissioners regTet to report that they have been unable to
reach a unanimous conclusion in regard to the true location of the
said diamond line within and near the above limits.
Commissioners Hodgkins and Buchanan, after careful study of
all the evidence ot record and after diligent examination of the
ground, are of the opinion that the said diamond line of 1802-1803
runs from monument Xo. 25, near the first marked trees east of
Bristol, in a straight line, to monument Xo. 26, on the western
boundary of the Bristol cemetery and on the north line of Main or
State street; thence along the northern line of said ]\Iain or State
street to "a planted stone in the edge of a field formerly owned by
Z. L. Burson, being the northwest corner of the corporate territory
of the old town of Bristol" referred to in the act of cession, supra;
and thence in a straight line to monument Xo. 28 in the fork of the
main road and near the first marked trees west of Bristol.
Commissioner Baylor, on the other hand, after equally careful
consideration of all the evidence of record and diligent examina-
tion of the ground, is of the opinion that the said diamond line of
1802-1803 runs from monument Xo. 25, near the first marked tree
east of Bristol, in a straight line to monument Xo. 27, situated
just outside of the wall of the Bristol cemetery, and on the middle
line of Main or State street as it runs west from this point; and
thence in a straight line along the middle of Main or State street
to monument Xo. 28, near the centre of the fork of the main road
and near the first marked trees of 1858-'59 west of Bristol.
The said line running through the centre of Main or State street
is just thirty feet south of monument Xo. 26 on the north property
line of Main or State street outside the western wall of Bristol
cemetery.
Westward from Bristol, the boundary was retraced without dif-
ficulty by the marked trees, just as in the previous work to the
eastward.
Only one marked deviation from the general course of the line
M'as encountered during the remainder of the season. This was on
the property formerly known as the Hickman place, in the vicinity
of the village of Bloomingdale, Tennessee.
Here the line was found to have a deflection of 8°, 30' to the
736 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
right or north for the distance of 3161.8 feet. From the west-
ern end of this offset the line resumed its general westerly course,
and so continued until the end of the work of that year. As the
season advanced it became evident that even under the most favor-
able conditions it would be impossible to complete the survey with-
out worldng far into the winter, which on many accounts was un-
desirable.
The attorney-generals of the two States therefore joined in a
request for a further extension of time within which your com-
missioners might file their report, and this honoraljle court there-
upon extended that time until the opening of the October term,
1903.
The field operations for tlie season of 1901 were closed at the
end of October, at which time the survey had been extended to the
Clinch river, forty-three miles east of Cumberland Gap, the total
lengih of boundary retraced being .seventy miles, besides sixteen
miles of trial line run on the extension of the "straight line" from
Denton's valley to Pond mountain.
Before the opening of the field work for the season 1902 a com-
plaint reached your commissioners from a citizen of Johnson
county, Tennessee, supposed to be reliable, to the effect that inter-
ested parties were interfering with the marks placed on the line the
previous year, and that, in some cases at least, the monuments had
not been properly placed by the persons employed for that pur-
pose.
Although these statements seem scarcely credible in view of the
general interest taken in the work by the inhabitants, your com-
missioners thought it best to investigate the matter and to satisfy
themselves by personal inspection that the monuments had re-
mained undisturbed in their proper places.
This was accordingly done at the outset of the season's work,
and it was ascertained that the stories of falsification of the mark-
ing were without any foundation of fact; that all the monuments
l)etween the northeast corner of Tenuessee and Bristol had been
properly set, and that none of tliem had been disturbed.
These preliminary operations occupied the time from June 33
to July 4, on which day your commissioners returned to Bristol.
After placing some additional monuments on the old line in and
near Bristol they proceeded to Gate City, Virginia, where the
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 737
camp outfit had l)cen stored at the close of the work in the pre-
ceding autumn, and at once went into camp at Robinett^ Tennes-
see, west of the north fork of the Clinch river.
The survey of the boundary line was resumed at the point where
it had been suspended the year before, at the crossing of Clinch
river near Church's ford.
From this point to Cumberland Gap the line crosses a succession
of mountains and valleys with comparatively little level or cleared
land. Little difficulty was experienced in tracing the line in this
part of its course, the marked trees being generally found at fre-
quent intervals. The line preserved its general course as before,
except that two deflections to the noTthw^ard were found, which
were similar to that found the year before near Bloomingdale.
The first of these occurred on the mountain called Wall'en's
Ridge, where the line made a deflection of 19° to the north before
reaching the summit, and k'ept that course for a distance of 4643.7
feet before resuming its usual direction. There were numerous
trees with both the 1803 and 1859 marks on this deflected line.
The final deflection of 4° 10' to the north for a distance of
6503.3 feet began at the "old furnace road" near Station creek,
I'ess than three miles from the west end of the line on Cumberland
mountain. From the western end of this otfset the line runs
straight to the terminus.
There has been considerable controversy and litigation over
these last three miles of the boundary, and a number of witnesses
have testified in the case of Virginia ag't Tennessee, Supreme
Court United States, October term 1891, that there were none of
the marks of the previous surveys remaining between Station creek
and the summit of Cumberland mountain, owing to the destruction
of the timber in that area during the military operations of the
Civil war.
Your commissioners were able to find, however, three trees well
marked with the mark of 1859 survey, and at least one of these
bore evidence in the position of this mark that an old diamond
mark was formerly visible above it.
These marked trees were found on the east and west part of the
line west of the offset, and are in excellent alignment, and settled
beyond the possibility of doubt the location of this part of the
boundary, and hence the short remaining distance to the summit
138 >So7itJiirest Virginia, 17Ji6-17SO.
of Cumberland mountain. This line passes near and a little south
of the old mill several times referred to in the case above cited, and
thence across the Union railroad station, leaving most of the town
of Cumberland Gap in Tennessee. The summit of Cumberland
mountain was reached on Saturday, August 33, 1902, and on the
following Monday the field work of the survey was completed and
the camp outfit was packed and shipped to Washington. Your
commissioners then separated ; Professor Buchanan returned to
his home at Lebanon, Tennessee, to work up his field notes, and
Mr. Hodgkins to Washington, to attend to business of the commis-
sion and to draft a report of its operations, while Mr. Baylor
remained on the ground until September 13, superintending the
placing of monuments along the part of the line surveyed in 1902.
In conclusion, your commissioners state that they have found the
duties imposed upon them by your instructions often arduous
and exacting, and that the survey just completed proved far more
lal)orious, and was attended by greater hardships, than any of them
had anticipated ; but that they have nevertheless given the same
careful attention to every part of it, and that they believe it to be
correct throughout.
List of monumejits of cut limestone and other duralde marks as
hereinafter more fully described :
(1) — At northeast corner of Tennessee, at Burnt Hill.
(2) — On summit of Flat Spring ridge.
(3) — On Valley Creek road on John Tolliver's place.
( 1) — On road from Laurel river to White Top mountain near an
old mill.
(5) — On road up Laurel river near a double ford.
On summit of Iron moimtain, near the north end of the rocky
bluff, a cairn of rocks was erected.
(6) — At eastern foot Holston mountain, a short distance from
Beaver Dam creek and the Virginia and Carolina railway.
Coast and Geodetic Survey triangidation station, "Damascus,"
U S
on summit of Holston mountain, a stone marked X
C S
(7) — On Eockhouse Branch road in the valley on Mary Nealy
place.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 739
(8) — On road from Barron railway station to New Sliady road
cut-stone monument of 1858-'59.
(9)— In woods north of New Shady road where the line changes
its course to south 23° 50' west (mag.) a marked deflection from
the general course of the line.
(10) — On the New Shady road where this deflected line
crosses it.
(11) — In wo-ods on Little mountain west of Cox creek where
this bearing of south 23° 50' west (mag.) ends, and the line re-
sumes its general course to the westward.
(12) — On the road just north of cross road leading to Thomas
Denton's place.
(13)— On road on hill on C. D. Short's place.
(14) — On road on east bank of the south fork of Holston river,
cut-stone monument of 1858-'59.
(15) — On hill in George Garrett's cow lot west and north of
south fo'ik Holston river.
(16) — On road to King's mill near John Buckle's house.
(17) — On road to King's Mill via Thomas' place.
(18) — On summit of open hill east of Painter place, concrete
monument.
(19) — On road running east of Painter house.
(20) — On road running west of Painter house, cut-stone monu-
ment of 1858-'59.
(21) — On road through woods west of Painter property.
(22) — On summit of first high ridge east of Paperville road.
(23) — On Paperville road at Jones' place.
(24) — On road west of Carmack house.
(25) — On Booher place near first marked tree of 1858--'59 efv?t
of Bristol.
(26) — On north property line of the main street of Bristol out-
side the western wall of the cemetery. Commissioner Baylor does
not consider this a part of the true line.
(27) — Outside the street wall of Bristol cemetery at the point
where the average centre line of Main street intersects said wall.
Commissioners Hodgkins and Buchanan do not consider this a
point on the boundary. A stone post in the edge of a field formerly
owned by Z. L. Burson at the northwest corner of the old corporate
740 Southivest Virginia, 17Jt6-1780.
U'l-ritory of the old town of Brii^tol. Commissioner Baylor does
not consider this a point on the bonndary.
(28) — In the fork of the main road west of the town of Bristol.
(29) — On the road to Bristol east of Worley place.
(30) — On road to Bristol west of Worley place.
Coast and Geodetic Snrvey triangnlation station, "Dunn," on
U S
summit of ridge on old Dnnn's place, stone marked X
C S
(ol) — On Dishner Yalley road.
(32) — On road tO' Bristol east of Gumni spring.
(33) — On road to Bristol near Tallman house.
(34) — On road in valley west of old abandoned railway bed.
(35)— On Scott road.
(36) — On road west of Akard place.
(37)^ — On road near Jackson place.
(38) — On Boozey Creek road.
(39) — On road to Hilston ford, cut-stone monument 18r)8-'r)9.
(40) — On Timbertree road.
(41) — Between two roads just east of Gate City road.
(42) — In woods west of Gate City road where there is a deflec-
tion of 8° 30' to the right or north from the general course of the
line on old Hiclanan place.
(43) — In woods northeast of Bloomingdale where this 8° 30' de-
flec^tion from the general course of the line ends in going west-
ward and line resumes its general course.
(44)- — On road to Bloomingdale.
(45)— On Wall Gap road.
(46) — On road up ravine.
(47) — On Carter Valley road.
(48) — On Gate City and Kingsport road, cut-stone monument of
1858-'59.
Coast and Geodetic Survey triang-ulation station, "Cloud," on
U S
bluff of Nortli Holston river, stone marked X
C S
(49) — On east bank of North Holston river.
(50) — On road on west bank of North Holston river.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 741
(51) — At cross roads on Stanle}^ Valley road, cut-stone monu-
ment of 1858-'59.
(52) — On Stanley Yalley road on hill at turn in road.
(53) — On Cameron postoffice road.
(54) — On Stanley Valley road south of harn of N. J. Bussell,
cnt-stone monument of 1858-'59.
(55) — On Stanley Valley road, cut-stone monument of 1858-'59.
(50) — On road which runs across Opossum ridge.
(57) — On Moore's Gap road.
(58) — On Caney Valley road.
(59) — On Little Poor Valley road south of Mary Field house.
(60) — On Poor Valley road, cut-stone monument of 1858-'59.
On summit of Clinch mountain, cairn of rocks erected a few
feet south of the Coast and Geodetic Survey triangulation station,
U S
"Wildcat," whicli station marked with X cut in sandstone rock,
C S
(61)— On Clincli Valley road.
(62) — On road on east hank of Clinch river ahove Church's ford.
(63) — On road at Jane Bagley's house.
On summit of open hill east of Fisher Valley road line, crosses
solid rock. Small hole drilled in it with a T cut south of hole and
V north of it.
(64)— On Fisher A^alley road.
On summit of a high ridge east of Eobinett line, crosses solid
rock. Small hole drilled in it with V cut on north side of hole aiid
T south of it.
(65)— On road at Eobinett.
On side of ridge at east edge of woods line, crosses rock. Small
hole drilled in it with V cut on north side of hole and T on south
of it.
On summit of ISTewman's ridge line, crosses rock similarly marked.
(66) — On Eogersville and .Tonesville road.
(67)— On Little Creek road.
(68)— On Sneedville and Black Water Salt Works road.
? (69)- — On Black Water A'alley road near J. Mullen's house.
Coast and Geodetic Survey triangulation station, "Powell," on
US
summit of Powell mountain, large sandstone rock mai-ked X
s
742 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
(70) — On Mulberry Gap and Wallen Creek road near large
poplar.
(71) — Near junction of Mulberry Gap and Jonesville roads.
(72) — On east face of Wallen's ridge on edge of trail over ridge
where there is a deflection to the right or north of 19° from the
general course of the line.
On summit of Wallen's ridge lino, crosses large sandstone rock.
Small hole cut in it with V cut north of hole and T south of it.
(73) — On west face of Wallen's ridge in open field on the
boundary fence of Mollie Thompson and J. W. Moore, where this
deflection of 19° from the general course of the line ends in going
westward and line resumes its general course.
(74) — On road east of Powell river and north of Welch or
Baldwin ford.
On rock bluff west of Powell river a small hole was cut with V
north of this hole and T south of it.
(75) — On Powell river and Sneedville road, on west hill of
Powell river, rough stone monument with V cut on north face and
T on south face.
(76) — On Powell river and Sneedville road.
(77) — On Martin Creek road.
(78) — On Low Hollow road.
(.79)— On Four Mile Creek road.
(80)— On Bayless' Mill road.
(81) On Ball's Mill road.
Coast and Geodetic Survey triangulation station, ''Minter," on
summit of hill near gate and fence corner.
(83) — On road south of Jacob Estep's house.
(84) — On East Machine Branch road.
(85) — On West Machine Branch road.
(86) — On Ducktown road.
(87) — On Mud Hollow Hole road near large limestone spring.
(88) — On Hoskin's Valley road near large limestone spring.
(89) — On George Souther's saw-mill road.
(90) — On Louisville and JSTashville railway near Brooks' cross-
ing.
(91) — On old Iron Works roads where there is a deflection of
4° 10' to the fight on north from the general course of the line.
(92) — On Station Creek road.
WasJiington County, 1777-1S70. 743
(93) — On the east side of Poor Valley ridge where this deflec-
tion of -1° 10' from the general course of the line ends in going
v\estward and line resumes its general course.
(94) — On Cumberland Gap and Virginia road east of Cumber-
land Gap.
(95) — On small hill just east of road connecting Cumberland
Gap with Old Virginia and Cumberland Gap road in the edge of
the old town j)ark.
(96)— On side of open hill facing south about two and one-half
squares east of the Tazewell and Kentucky roads at Cumberland
Gap.
(97) — On west side of Tazewell and Kentucky roads and just
east of woolen factory at Cumberland Gap.
(98) — At foot of Cumberland mountain west of the Union Eail-
way station and in line with the south edge of the south chimney
of said Union Eailway station.
(99)— On summit of Cumberland mountain. The monument
of cut limestone had V and T cut on its adjacent vertical faces
and "Corner" cut on its top. Its base is set in cement and broken
rock with one diagonal running east and west. The summit of the
sandstone ledge w^as blast*ed in order to set this monument.
In addition to the cut-stone monuments and other durable marks
your commissioners marked with six chops, thus :
W
W
the trees on and within ten feet of this line on each side.
Your commissioners unanimously agree in recommending that
the rights of individuals having claims or titles to lands on either
side of said boundary line as ascertained, re-marked and re-estab-
lished by your commissioners shall not in consequence thereof in
any wise be prejudiced or atfected where said individuals have paid
their taxes in good faith in the wrong State.
[seal.] ' William C. Hodgkins^
Commissioner.
[seal.] James B. Baylor^
Commissionei\
[seal.] Andrew H. Buchanan,
Commissioner.
744 Southwest Virginia, 17 Jf 6-17 86.
The Supreme Court of the United States on the Ist day ot June,
1903, conhrmed this report and entered the following order:
This cause came on to be heard on May 18, 1903, on the proceed-
ings heretofore had herein and upon the report of William C.
Hodgkins. James B. Baylor and Andrew H. Buchanan, commis-
sioners ap])ointed by the decretal order herein of April 30, 1900, to
ascertain, retrace, re-mark and re-establish the real, certain and
true boundary line between the States of Tennessee and -Virginia
as actually run and located from White Top mountain to Cumber-
land Gap under proceedings had between the two States in 1801-
1803, and as adjudged and decreed by this court in its decree of
April 3, 1893, in a certain original case in equity wherein the State
of Virginia was complainant and the State of Tennessee was de-
fendant, which report is annexed hereto and made part hereof.
And it appearing to the court that said report was filed in this
court on the 5th day of January, 1903, and that the same is un-
excepted to by either party in any respect, therefore, upon tlie mo-
tion of the State of 'Tennessee by her attorney-general and (»f the
State of Virginia by her attorney-general, it is ordi'red that said
report be, and the same is hereby, in all things confirmed.
It is thereupon ordered, adjudged and decreed that the real,
certain and true boundary line between the States of Tennessee
and Virginia as actually run and located under the compact and
proceedings had l)etween the two States in 1801-1803. and as ad-
judged by this court on the 3d day of April, 1893, in said original
cause in equity wherein the State of Virginia was complainant and
the State of Tennessee was defendant as aforesaid, was at the in-
stitution of this suit, and noAv is, except as hereinafter shown, as
described and delineated in said report filed herein on January 5,
1903, as aforesaid.
And it further appearing to the court, and it being so admitted
by both parties, that since the institution of this suit and the de-
cretal order, of April 30, 1900, as aforesaid, a compact was entered
into by the States of Tennessee and Virginia expressed in the con-
current laws of said States, namely, the act of the General Assean-
bly of Tennessee, approved January 28, 1901, entitled "An act to
cede to the State of Virginia a certain narrow strip of territory be-
longing to the State of Tennessee lying between the northern
boundary line of the city of Bristol, in the county of Sullivan.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 745
and the southern boundary line of the city of Bristol, in the county
of Wa,shington, State of Virginia, being the northern half of
Main street of the said two cities," and the reciprocal act of the
General Assembly of Virginia, approved February 9, 1901, en-
titled "An act to accept the cession by the State of Tennessee to
the State of Virginia of a certain narrow strip of territory claimed
as belonging to the State of Tennessee and described as lying be-
tween the northern boundary line of the city of Bristol, in the
county of Sullivan, State of Tennessee, and the southern boundary
line of the city of Bristol, in the county of Washington, State of
Virginia, being tlie northern half of the Main street of the said
two cities."
And it further appearing that said compact received the consent
of the Congress of the United States by joint resolution approved
March 3, 1901, as follows :
"Eesolved by the Senate and House of Eepresentatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled, That a recent
compact or agreement having been made by and between the States
of Tennessee and Virginia whereby the State of Tennessee by an
act of its legislature approved January twenty-eighth, nineteen
lumdred and one, ceded to the State of Virginia certain territory
specifically described in said act, and being the northern half of the
^lain street l^etween the cities of Bristol, Tennessee and Virginia,
and the State of Virginia, by act of its general assembly, approved
February ninth, nineteen hundred and one, having accepted said
cession of the State of Tennessee, the consent of Congress is hereby
given to said compact or agreement between said States fixing the
boundary line between said States as shown by said acts referred to,
and the same is hereby ratified."
And the said commissioners in their said report having ascer-
tained and recommended the straight line from the end of the "dia-
mond marked" or compact line of 1801-1803 to the corner of the
States of North Carolina and Tennessee as the true boundary line
between the States of Virginia and Tennessee between those two
points, the court, approving said recommendation and finding of
said commissioners, doth adopt the same.
And the court being of opinion that it is proper to recognize the
line so established by said last mentioned compact of 1901 as th'e
real, certain, and true interstate ])oundary line within and between
said two cities, and to definitely determine and fix in this cause
746 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
what is the real and true and certain boundary line between said
States throughout the entire length thereof from the corner of the
States of North Carolina and Tennessee, on Pond mountain, to
the corner of Virginia and Kentucky, at Cumberlnd Gap, doth
therefore adjudge, order, and decree that the entire, real, certain
and true boundary line between the States of Tennessee and Vir-
ginia is the line described and delineated in said report filed herein
on January 5, 1903, modified as to so much of said line as lies
between the two cities of Bristol by the aforesaid compact of 1901
between the two States, and as so described, delineated and modi-
fied said boundary line, from the said North Carolina corner to the
eastern end of the compact line of 1801-1803, known, as the "dia-
mond marked" line, and thence to Cumberland Gap, is hereby de-
termined, fixed and established.
It is to be hoped that this action of the Supreme Court of the
United States will put an end to this controversy, which has lasted
for more than 130 years.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 717
Biographical Sketches.
REV. CHAS. CUMMINGS.
Mr. Cummings was an Irishman by birth, and came to America in early
manhood. Soon after arriving in this country he entered Carlisle College,
Pennsylvania. After receiving a thorough education he settled in Lancas-
ter county, Virginia, and on the 13th of February, 1766, he married Miss
Mildred Carter. He was licensed to preach by Hanover Presbytery on the
18th of April, 1767, and received a call to the North Mountain church, in
Augusta county, which church he served until 1772, when he received a
call to the Sinking Spring and Ebbing Spring congregations, on the Hol-
ston. This call he accepted, and removed with his family to a tract of land
in the neighborhood of Abingdon. He served the Sinking Spring church
until the year 1812, the date of his death, which occurred in March of that
year.
He accompanied Colonel Christian upon his expedition against the Chero-
kees in the year 1776, and preached in the territory, now in the State of
Tennessee, being the first preacher in that territory.
He joined a company organized at Abingdon under the command of
Colonel Evan Shelby, and hurried to the relief of the inhabitants at
Watauga when besieged by the Indians, in 1776.
He was the first named on the Committee of Safety for Fincastle county,
and is accredited with the honor of having drafted the Fincastle resolutions
which were adopted on the 20th of January, 1775. He assisted in drafting
a petition from Hanover Presbytery to the General Assembly of Virginia,
asking the separation of the Church and the State, in October, 1776.
When Washington county was formed, in the year 1777, he was elected
chairman of the Committee of Safety, and by his example and admonition
did much to fire the spirit of patriotism which blazed forth so brilliantly
among the people of the Holston in the War of the Revolution.
He was of middle stature, about five feet ten inches high, well set and well
formed, possessing great personal firmness and dignity of character. His
voice was strong and had great compass; his articulation slow, clear and
distinct; withotit apparent etTort he could speak to be heard by ten thou-
sand people. His mind was good, but not brilliant. He understood his own
system well; spoke always with gravity, and required it from all who sat
under the sound of his voice. He would not tolerate any movement among
the congregation after the services commenced. He uniformly spoke like
one having authority, and laid down the law and the gospel, as he under-
stood them, with great distinctness.
748 SoutJuccst Virginia, 171^6-1786.
COLONEL ARTHUR CAMPBELL.
He was born in Augusta county in the year 1743. Entered the service
of liis country wlien a youth; was captured at Dicken.son's Fort and carried
into captivity by the Indians and kept for three years; returned to his
home and moved to Holston settlements in 17G5. Major in Fincastle mili-
tia and member of the County Court of Fincastle county; member of the
House of Burgesses from Fincastle county; one of the original trustees of
Washington College. Covmty lieutenant and presiding justice of Wash-
ington coimty for more than a quarter of a century. Represented Fin-
castle county in the Convention of 1776 and Washington comity many
times thereafter in the General Assemblj' of tlie State. Made an effort to
organize a new State west of the moimtains in 1782-1785. He was a
statesman and a patriot.
Died at the present location of Middleborough, Ky., on August 8th, 1811.
COLONEL \V1LLIAM RUSSELL.
Born in Culpeper county in the year 1748. Settled near the Clinch river,
south of Castle's Woods, about 1770, and built Russell's Fort. Commanded
a company of frontiersmen at the battle of Point Pleasant in the fall of
1774. Member of the House of Burgesses from Fincastle county in 177(>.
Commissioned captain in the Continental army, and accompanied Colon-.d
C'hristian upon his expedition against the Cherokee Indians in 1770. Mem-
ber of the G-eneral Assembly of Virginia in 1786. and introduced bill for
formation of Russell county, \'irginia. Brigadier-general of Virginia mili-
tia. Married Mrs. ^^'m. Campbell, and for many years resided at Saltville,
Virginia. Died in the year 1794 at the home of his son, Robert S. Russell,
in Shenandoah county, Virginia.
COLONEL WILLIAM COCKE.
Colonel \^'m. Cocke was a son of Abraham Cocke, of Amelia county. Was
born in 1747, and died August 22d, 1828. He was an early pioneer of Ken-
tucky; active in the fonnation of the "State of Franklin," and afterwards
of Tennessee; served in two wars — the Revolution, in which he was a cap-
tain, and the war of 1812, in which he volunteered, though an old man, and
was a member of the IjCgislature in four States — Virginia, North Carolina.
Tennessee and Misisissippi. He was a member of the Virginia House of
Delegates from Washington county in 1777, and was Ihiited States Senator
from Tennessee, 1790-'7, 1799-180.5. He was afterwards a judge of tlic
Circuit Court of Tennessee, and later removed to Mississippi, where he died.
MAJOR ANTHONY BLEDSOE.
Born in Augusta county. Member of the County Court of Botetourt, Fin-
castle and Washing-ton counties. Officer in the militia of Fincastle and
Washington eoimties. Built Bledsoe's Fort. i;ci»resented Washington
county in the General .Assembly 1777-1778. ('ommanded C'hristian's army
Washington County. 1777-1870. 749
at Long Island from December, 1776, to April, 1777. Removed to Bledsoe's
Lick, near Naishvilie, Tennessee, where he was killed by the Indians.
CAPTAIN ^VM. EDMISTON.
Born in Augusta count}'. Served in the French-Indian war of 1754-1763.
Member of the county coui'ts of Fincastle and Washington counties. Officer
in the militia of Washington and Fincastle countias. Received a grant of
3,000 acres of land under the King's proclamation of 1763 for services ren-
dered in the French-Indian war, and laid the grant in the community of
Edmiston's Fort, in this county. Captain of a companj' on the expedition
into South Carolina in October, 1780. Was killed at the head of his com-
pany in tlie battle of King's Mountain.
COLONEL JOSEPH MARTIN.
Son of English parents, who emigrated from Bristol, England, and set-
tled in Albemarle county, Virginia. Colonel Martin was born in Albemarle
county in the year 1740. Married Susanna Childs. Settled in Pittsylvania
county, Virginia. In 1765 attempted the establishment of Martin's Sta-
tion, in Powell's Valley, but was driven off by the Indians. Afterwards ap-
pointed entry-taker by Colonel Richard Henderson for that portion of the
Henderson purchase situated in Powell's Valley. Commanded a company of
men upon Christian's expedition against the Cherokees in 1776. Appointed
Indian agent and stationed at Long Island of Holston river, which position
he occupied until the year 1789. Was a member of the Convention of North
Carolina called for the adoption or rejection of the Federal Constitution,
and several tiroes a member of the General Assembly of North Carolina.
About the year 1790 he returned to his old home in Henry county, Vir-
ginia. Was soon thereafter elected to the General Assembly of Virginia
from Henry county, and continued to serve in that capacity luitil he him-
self thought he was by age unfit for further usefulness. Died in 1808, in
the isixty-eighth year of his age.
GENERAL WM. CAMPBELL.
Was a native of Augusta county, of the true Caledonian race by the ma-
ternal line as well as by that of the father. Being an only son, he received
a liberal education imder the best teachers of the times. He had an ardent
mind, very susceptible of literary improvements, and acquired early in life
a correct knowledge of the English language, of ancient and modern his-
tory, and of several branches of mathematics. Nature had formed him for
a commander in military capacity. His personal appearance was grave
and masculine, being something about six feet high and well proportioned :
in conversation rather reserved and thoughtful; in his written eommuiiica-
tions expressive and elegant. His patriotism was not of a timid cast. He
never balanced between his military duty and prudential maxims. When
his ire was excited he showed in his countenance the fury of an Achilles.
The trusty Andreferrara, the sword he wore on the day of battle, wais once
750 Southwest Virginia, 17^6-1786.
the property of his grandfather from Scotland, and he had an arm and a
spirit that coukl wiekl it with effect. In the year 1775 he was of the first
regular troops raised in Virginia, being lionored with a captain's commis-
sion ill the first regiment. Here he acquired a j^ractical knowledge of tac-
tics and the discipline of an army. In the latter part of the year 1776 he
resigned his position on account of the Indian war breaking out, by which
his family and friends were exposed to immediate danger. Soon after he
was promoted to be lieutenant-colonel of the militia of Washington county,
and the next year, on the resignation of Evan Shelby, Sr., to that of colonel
of the regiment. In this rank he remained until after the battle of King's
Mountain and of Guilford, when he was appointed by a vote of the Legisla-
ture of Virginia to rank as a brigadier-general, and was ordered to join the
Marquis LaFayette, to oppose the invasion of the enemy in 1781. After
the defeat of Ferguson, the British general, Cornwallis, imbibed a personal
resentment, and had the temerity to theaten that if General Campbell fell
into his hands he would have him instantly put to death for his -rigor
against the Tories. This, instead of intimidating, had the contrary effect,
and in turn the American general resolved, if the fortune of war should
place Cornwallis in his power, he should meet the fate of Ferguson. This
at; the battle of Guilford had nearly been the case, for had all the militia
behaved with the same firmness and courage as on the wing where General
Campbell commanded, the British army must have met with a total defeat.
On forming the army in Virginia, under Marquis LaFayette, in 1781,
General Campbell became a favorite of that gallant nobleman, who gave
him command of the brigade of light infantry and riflemen. A few weeks
before the siege of Yorktown he took sick of a complaint in his breast,
which obliged him to retire from the army to a friend's house in the coun-
try, and there, after a short sickness, to end his days, in the thirty-sixth
year of his age, much lamented by the friends of liberty who knew him.
Of his military character we have given a short sketch. His moral senti-
ments and social demeanor in civil life were exemplary. Although an only
son and heir to a considerable property, he never gave way to the fashion-
able follies of young men of fortvme. He well knew that vice at any time
of life, or in any shape, darkens the understanding, perverts the will, and
thus injures social order in every grade of society. He kept a strict guard
on his own passions, and was by some deemed too severe in punishing the
deviations of others. His military career was short, but brilliant. Warren
and Montgomery acted at a conspicuous stage, and deserved the eulogisms
so often repeated. Campbell undertook a no less arduous task, with an
inferior number of undisciplined militia. He marched in a few days nearly
two hundred miles, over vast mountains, in search of the enemy, who were
commanded by an experienced officer, of known bravery and military skill,
and who had chosen his field for battle. It was at (King's Mountain) rather
a fortification than an open space for combatants to meet upon. The as-
sault of the Americans was impetuous and irresistible, and the event was a
victory to a wish. This victory resulted in the retreat of the main British
army a considerable distance and their relinquishment of the scheme of
WasJmigton County, 1777-1870. 751
invading Virginia that year. It also reanimated all the friends of liberty
in the Southern States, and was the prelude of adverse events to the enemy,
which, in the course of the next campaign, terminated in their final over-
throw.*
COLONEL WILLIAM PRESTON.
Son of John Preston, of Augusta county. Born in Ireland 1730, and died
at Sniithfield, now Blacksburg, 1783. One of the first trustees of Staunton.
Member the House of Burgesses from Augusta county 17G6-1768, and from
Botetourt county 1769. Commanded a company of Rangers in the French-
Indian war 1754-1763. On the formation of Botetourt county, 1769, he
was appointed colonel of the militia, coroner, escheator and county sur-
veyor. Upon the formation of Fincastle county he was appointed sheriff
and surveyor. He was engaged with Colonels Cainpbell and Christian in
their expeditions against the Cherokees in the year 1776. Was at the battles
of Whitsill's Mills and Guilford Courthouse, 1781, and was actively en-
gaged throughout the Revolution. He was a member of the Committee of
Safety of Fincastle county, and assisted in the preparation of the Fincastle
Resolutions. He left eleven children, all of whom, both male and female,
became distinguished in the history of our country. His five sons were
John, Francis, James, William and Thomas, and his six daughters were
Mrs. Thomas Madison, Mrs. Thomas McDowell, Mrs. Hart, Mrs. Thomas
Lewis and Mrs. John Floyd. One son and one of his sonis-in-law became
governors of Virginia.
COLONEL JAMES KING.
The subject of this sketch was born at Londonderry, Ireland, in 1752.
He was well educated, and emigrated to Virginia about the year 1769, and
by purchase, entry and condemnation acquired about 50,000 acres of land
in and arovind Bristol, Tennessee and Virginia, of the present day. Colonel
King married Sarah, one of the seven daughters of Colonel Thomas Good-
son, in Montgomery county, Virginia, and settled a few miles southwest
of Bristol near the Sulphur Springs. Colonel King won his title through
the Revolutionary war. Was captured and escaped and rejoined his regi-
ment, and after some time resigned his commission and returned to his
home, near Bristol, rather than deliver to the quartermaster a magnificent
mare from which he had knocked a British officer, but subsequently re-
joined his regiment, and was at Yorktown when Cornwallis surrendered.
Colonel King some time previous to the year 1800 erected an iron furnace
(Barbary Furnace) near the Sulphur Springs, and made the first iron in
what is now the State of Tennessee. Colonel King's partner in this
enterprise was Governor Blount, of the Southwest Territory. The iron
made at this furnace was hauled in wagons to Kingsport, a distance of
twenty-five miles, the junction of the North and South forks of Ilolston
river, and transported from that point by water. Kingsport took its name
*Colonel Arthur Campbell.
752 Sovthtrest Virginia, rr 46-1786.
from Colonel King. Some time previous to the jear 1810 Colonel King
purchased from Isaac Shelby, executor of General Evan Shelby, 976 acres
of land, one-half the Sapling Grove tract, tor $10,000, and it is said that the
backs of two hoiwes were ruined in canying this silver to Frankfort, Ken-
tucky, the home of General Isaac Shelby. Colonel King afterwards had this
property conveyed to his-son, the Rev. James King. Colonel King was a
very active and useful man. He was one of the three commissioners who
negotiated the treaty of Holston, and afterwards laid oflf the site of Knox-
ville, Tennesisee. He was a man of considerable wealth, and furnished An-
drew Jackson (afterwards President of the United States) the money witl;
which Jackson and John Overton purchased the Chickasaw Bluflf (now tlic
site of the city of jMemphis, Tennessee). The draft for this money is as
follows :
Col. James King,
Sir:
Pleaise pay to Mr. Andrew Jackson or order two thousand five
hundred one dollars sixty-seven cents which place to account of
Sir
Your Ul). Servant,
Dot id Allison
Dolls. 2.501 67-100 May 13th, 179.3.
Colonel King died of gout August 17th, 1825, aged seventy-three years,
leaving three children, to-wit: l!ev. James King, who married Mourning
Micajah Watkins, daughter of the Hon. Micajah Watkins, of Halifax
county; William King and Sarah King.
Colonel King was buried five miles west of Bristol, under an old coffin-
shaped tomb of rock and an iron slab, on which the following inscrijition
is cast:
Col. James King
Dec'd
Aug. 17th 1825
Aged 73 years
A Patriot
of
1776.
The Rev. James King above mentioned was a distinguished Presbyterian
divine, a man of considerable wealth, the founder of Bristol, Tennessee, and
of King College. He left a large family of children.
None but the wealthy in the early days of our country could afford a
four-wheel carriage. The Eev. James King, Jr., was the owner of such a
carriage, and below is given a receipt for the taxes assessed by the Federal
Govenunent upon this luxury:
This is to certify that .James King, Jr., in the county of Sullivan, in the
first collection district of Tennessee, has paid the duty of Thirty dollars,
for the year to end on the 31st da^ of December jiext, for and upon a foui'-
Washingirni Covnfi/, 1777-1S70. 753
wheel carriage, called a '"Coachee," owned l)y him, and tlie harness used
therefor.
This certificate to be of no a^ail any longer than the aforesaid carriage
shall be owned by the .said James King, Jr., unless said certificate shall be
produced to a collector, and an entry be made thereon, specifying the name
of the then owner of said carriage, and the time when he became possessed
thereof.
Given in conformity with the laws of the United States this 2nd day of
February, 1818.
NATHAN GREGG,
Deputy Collector of tlie Revenue, &c.
GENERAL WM. E. JONES.
The subject of this sketch wais bom on tlie INIiddle Fork of Holston river,
in the. upper end of Washington county, on the 3d day of May, 1824. He
was the son of Robert Jones and wife (formerly a Miss Edmondson). He
was educated at Emory and Henry College and at the Military Academy,
West Point, New York, from which institution he
graduated in 1848, and was commissioned second
lieutenant in the Mounted Rifles, and for three
yeans served in that capacity in what was after-
wards the State of Oregon. On January 13th, 1852,
while on a furlough, he was united in marriage to
Miss Eliza M. Dunn, a daughter of Dr. Samuel
Dunn, of this county. Mrs. Jones \\as accidentally
drowned at Pass Cubolla, Texas, on the 26th of
March, 1852, while on her way with her husband to
^j^ t^^^ join his command in the West. In 1857 he resigned
^ ,„ „ . his command in the United States army, and after
Gen. Wm. E. Jones - -^ '
visiting many jilaces of interest in the Old World
he returned to his father's estate, near Glade Spring, and with the assist-
ance of several French and German emigrants he planted an extensive vine-
yard, and was so engaged when the war between the States began. He or-
ganized a cavalry company in the spring of 1861, numbering 102 officers
and men, to which was given the name of the Washington Mounted Rifles,
afterwards Company D of the First Virginia Cavalry. In September, 1861,
he waiS commissioned colonel of tlie First Virginia Cavalry, which position
he held until April, 1862, when he was assigned to the command of the
Seventh Virginia Cavalry, General Turner Ashby's old regiment, and was
succeeded in the command of the First Virginia Cavalry by Fitzhugh Lee. In
September, 1862, he was commissioned brigadier-general, and was assigned
to a command in the Valley of Virginia, a serious disagreement arising be-
tween Generals Stuart and Jones. General Jones was assigned to the
command of the Department of Southwest Virginia and East Tennessee,
and arrived upon the scene during the battle at Blountville. Shortly there-
after he svirprised the enemy near Rogersville, Tenn., and captured from
eight to nine hundred prisoners. He was at the siege of Knoxville with
754 Southwest Virginia, 17 Jf 6-1786.
General Longstreet, and during the same fall and winter he surprised and
routed the Federal force of about six hundred officers and men stationed in
Lee county. In the spring of 18G4 his command took part in the battle of
Cloyd's Mountain, in Pulaski county. From Cloyd's Mountain he was or-
dered to the Valley of Virginia to oppose the advance of the Federal forces
under command of General Hunt. General Jones, with the infantiy force
he had at his command, advanced rapidly to Staunton, and from Staunton
to Mt. Hope. At this point his forces were attacked by General Hunter,
and every indication pointed to the success of the Confederate arms,
when General Jones indiscreetly rushed into the hottest of the fight to rally
and encourage some of his men, when he was shot and fell from his horse
dead. In a moment all was confusion, and the Confederates were routed.
And thus ended the battle of Piedmont.
General Jones was directly descended from one of the Edmiston families,
whose ancestor participated in the battle of King's Mountain, and was one
of the bravest and most striking figures that Washington county has ever
produced.
His remains were interred in the cemetery of the Old Glade Spring Pres-
byterian church, and his grave is marked by a plain marble shaft, which
bears the following inscription:
Gtn. Wm. E. Jones,
killed
June 5th, 1864,
In the battle at Piedmont, Virginia,
aged
40 years and 27 days.
JAMES L. WHITE.
The subject of this sketch is the son of Wm. Y. C. White and his wife,
Margaret Greenway. Was born at Carpet Hill, Abingdon, Va., the home of
his father, on the 29th of August, 1842. Was edu-
cated at the Abingdon Academy and University of
Virginia. Was a student at the University of Vir-
ginia m the spring of 1861, joined a company at
the University and went to Harper's Ferry in the
spring of that year. Became lieutenant of Captain
J. F. Mcllhaney's company (Russell county) in the
Thirty-seventh Virginia Regiment, and became adju-
tant of the Thirty-seventh Virginia Regiment. Af-
terwards served on the staff of General Wm. Terry.
Wounded at Appomattox Springs a few days before
the surrender, and was left upon the battle-field and
James L. White. thought to be dead. Afterwards recovered and re-
turned to his home. After the close of the war he studied law, and gradu-
ated in this profession from Washington and Lee University. Was licensed
and began the practice of law in Abingdon, and in the spring of 1870 was
elected Commonwealth's Attorney for this county by 1,600 majority.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 755
Since that time has been actively engaged in the practice of his profession,
and has attained that position where it may be said of him that he is the
peer of any lawyer to be found in our country. A high-toned, honorable
gentleman, an honor to his country and a credit to his profession. Early
in life be married Miss Kate Robertson, daughter of Governor Wyndham
Robertson, and they have reared a large family of sons and daughters.
MEMBERS OF CONGRESS.
ANDREV/ MOORE.
Was bom in Rockbridge county, Virginia. Received an academical eau
cation. Was elected a representative from Virginia in the First Congress,
and was reelected to the Second, Third and Fourth Congresses, serving from
March, 1789 to 1797. Succesisfully contested the election of Thos. Lewis in
the Eighth Congress, serving from March, 1804, to Novmber 6, 1804, when he
was appointed a United States Senator from Virginia (in place of Wilson
Gary Nicholas, resigned ) . Was subsequently elected a United States Senator
(in place of Abraham B. Venable, resigned ) , serving from December 17, 1804,
to March 3, 1809. Served in the Continental army, his company forming a
part of Morgan's Corps at the battle of Saratoga. Member of the conven-
tion that ratified the Constitution of the United States in 1788. Many
times a member of the Legislature from Rockbridge county. Brigadier-
general of militia, and in 1809 was appointed a major-general of militia.
In the year 1810 he was appointed United States Marshal for the State of
Virginia, and served in that position to the date of his death, which oc-
curred on the 24th of May, 1821.
FRANCIS PRESTON.
Son of Colonel Wm. Preston, of Smithfield. Was
born at Greenfield (now Botetourt county) on the
'la day of August, 1765. Graduated at William and
Mary College and studied law under Chancellor
Wythe. Settled in Abingdon and began the prac-
tice of law, and was for many years recognized as
one of the ablest lawyers in this section of the
State. Married Sarah Buchanan Campbell, daugh-
Col. Francis Preston. ter of General William Campbell, on the 10th
January, 1793. Elected a member of Congress in the same year, and
served till the year 1797. After retiring from Congress he settled at the
Saltworks. In the year 1810 he removed to Abingdon. Elected to the
General Assembly from Washington county. Was commissioned a colonel,
and marched with his regiment to Norfolk in 1814. He was elected briga-
dier-general of militia by the General Assembly of Virginia in 1820. He
died at the home of Wm. C. Preston, in South Carolina, on the 26th day of
May, 1836, and his remains were interred at Aspinvale, near Seven-Mile
Ford. He left a family of children, all of whom became distinguished,
756 Southwest Virginia, 174G-1786.
viz., United States Senator Wm. C. Preston, of South Carolina ; General
John S. Preston, of South Carolina; Thomas L. Preston, University of Vir-
ginia; Mrs. Wade Hampton, of South Carolina; Mrs. Robert J. Breckeu-
ridge, of Kentucky; Mrs. General Carrington, of Albemarle county; Mrs.
John B. Floyd, of Wasliington county; ]Mrs. James McDowell, of Virginia;
Mrs. Jolm M. I'rciston, of Abingdon.*
ABRAM TRIGG.
Born in Montgomery county, Virginia. Was elected a representative
from Virginia in the Fifth Congress. Was reelected to the Sixth, Seventh,
Eighth, Ninth and Tenth Congresses, serving from May loth, 1797, to
March 3d, 1800.
DANIEL SHEFFEY.
Was born at Frederick, Maryland, in 1770. Was bred a shoemaker in his
father's shop, bvit became proficient in astronomical and mathematical
studies. Arriving at manhood, he walked into Virginia, carrying his tools,'
and finally located at Abingdon. Studied IsiW under Alexander Smyth.
Was admitted to the bar, and soon enjoyed a lucrative practice. Was
elected from Augusta county to the House of Delegates. Was elected a
representative from Virginia to the Eleventh, Twelfth, Thirteenth and
Fourteenth Congresses as a Federalist, sei-\'ing from May 22d, 1809, to
March 3d, 1817. Died in Augusta county, Virginia, December 3d, 1830.
ALEXANDER SlilYTH.
Alexander Smyth was born on the Island of Rothlin, Ireland, in 1765.
Emigrated to the United States in 1775, and located in Botetourt county,
Virginia. Received an academic education. Studied law, was admitted to
the bar in 1789, and commenced practice at Abing-
don. Removed in 1792 to Wytlie county. Was a
member of the State House of Representatives in
1792, 1796, 1800, 1804-1808. Was appointed by
President Jeff'erson colonel of a United States rifie
regiment, which he commanded at the Southwest
until 1811, when he wais ordered to Washington to
prepare a discipline for the army. Was appointed
inspector-general in 1812 and ordered to the Cana-
dian frontier, where he failed in an invasion of
Canada and left the army. Resumed his practice.
Was appointed a member of the State Board of
Public Works. Was again elected to the State
House of Representatives. Was elected a representative from Virginia in
the Fifteenth Congresis, receiving 1,443 A'otes, against 711 votes for
Estill. Was reelected to the Sixteenth, Seventeenth and Eighteenth
Congresses, serving from December 1st, 1817, to March 3d, 1825. Was again
?Three of his sons-in-law were Governors, one of South Carolina and two of
Virginia.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 757
elected to the Twentieth Congress, receiving 2,604 votes, against 991 votes
for Sharp, and was reelected to the Twenty-first Congress, serving from
December 3d, 1827, to April 17, 1830, when he died at Washington city.
He published "Regulations of United States Infantry" and "Remarks on
the Apocalypse." General Smyth had four children — Harold, Alexander,
Malvina and Frances. Malvina married Captain John P. Matthews, who
was for many years clerk of Wythe County Court and a member of the
State Constitutibnal Convention 1829-1830. Frances married Captain
James H. Piper, who at one time represented the Wythe district in the
State Senate. Colonel Piper had the distinction of climbing the Natural
Bridge in Virginia.
JOSEPH DRAPER.
Son of John and Jane Crockett Draper. Born in Draper's Valley De-
cember 25th, 1794. Enlisted as a private in the war of 1812-1814. Studied
law under Daniel Sheffey, and was admitted to the bar at Wytheville in 1818.
His fame as an orator came with his first case in court, and it is said that
he was one of the most brilliant speakers of his day.
In 1820 he married Margaret Sa^vyers, a daughter or
John T. Sawyers, of Max Meadows, Va. In 1828 he
was elected to the State Senate over General James
Hoge, of Pulaski. He was elected to Congress to fill
the vacancy occasioned by the death of General Smyth,
in 1830, and was again elected to fill the vacancy oc-
casioned by the death of Chas. C. Johnston, in 1832.
While in Congress he was a warm friend and great
admirer of John C. Calhoun, and was on the friend-
liest terms with his colleague and cousin, David
Crockett, of Texas. He was a great friend of Daniel
Webster, with whom he was associated in a number Joseph Draper,
of cases before the Supreme Court of the United States. He died on June
10th, 1834, aged forty years.
CHAHLES C. JOHNSTON".
Son of Judge Peter Johnston. Was bom at Panicello, near Abingdon.
Received an academic education. Studied law, was admitted to the bar, and
commenced practice at Abingdon. Was elected a representative from Vir-
ginia in the Twenty-second CongresvS, serving from December 5th, 1831, to
June I7th, 1832, when he went to Alexandria, Virginia, to visit a friend,
and on his return at night he fell from the wharf into the Potomac river
and was drowned. Mr. Johnston was a brilliant orator and splendid law-
yer. He left two children — John Preston Johnston, who was killed in the
Mexican war, and Mrs. Eliza M. Hughes, wife of Judge Robert W. Hughes,
JOHN H. FULTON.
Born in Augusta county. Educated at Hampden-Sidney College. Studied
jaw under Judge Bp,Jdwin, of Staunton. Located in Abingdon. Adwitt^4
758 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
to the bar. Elected to the House of Delegates from Washington county
1823-1824. Represented the Washington district in the Senate of Virginia
1829-1831. Was elected to the Twenty-third Congress as a Whig, receiving
2,621 votes, against 1,257 for Wm. Byars, Democrat, serving from Decem-
ber 2d, 1833, to March 3d, 1835. Was a candidate for reelection when he
died, in January, 1836, his opponent in this election being George W. Hop-
kins. His remains were interred in the Sinking Spring Cemetery, Abing-
don, Va., and his grave is at this day marked by a large iron slab, upon
which is the following inscription:
" Tread not upon his ashes,
For he was the poor man's friend."
Notwithstanding this inscription, a path through the cemetery passes al-
most directly over this grave.
GEORGE W. HOPKINS.
George W. Hopkins was born in Goochland county, Virginia, February
22d, 1804. Received a public school education. Taught school in Smyth
county. Studied law, was admitted to the bar, and commenced practice at
Lebanon, Virginia. Was a member of the State House of Representatives
1833-1834. Was elected a representative from Virginia
in the Twenty-fourth Congress as a Democrat, defeating
John H. Fulton. Was reelected to the Twenty-fifth Con-
gress, receiving 1,475 majority over John N. Humes,
Whig. Was reelected to the Twenty-sixth Congress, re-
ceiving 2,821 votes, against 2,308 votes for George,
Whig. Was reelected to the Twenty-seventh Congress.
Was reelected to the Twenty-eighth Congress, receiving
about 1,000 majority over Fulton, Whig. Was reelected
George W.Hopkins. *° *^^ Twenty-ninth Congress, serving from December
7th, 1835, to March 3d, 1847. Was charge cVaffaires to
Portugal March 3d, 1847, to October 18, 1849. Was again a member of the
State House of Representatives in 1849. Was a judge of the Circuit Court.
Was again elected to the Tliirty-fifth Congress, receiving 5,318 votes, against
5,249 votes for Martin, American, serving from December 7th, 1857, to
March 3d, 1859. Was again elected a member of the State House of Rep-
resentatives, and died March 2, 1861. Was elected a member of the Con-
stitutional Convention 1850, but in the fall of that year resigned and was
elected Speaker of the House of Delegates of Virginia.
ANDREW S. FULTON.
Born in Augusta county September, 1800. Educated at Hampden-Sidney
College. Studied law in the office of Judge Baldwin, in Staunton, Virginia.
Located in Abingdon, Virginia, in 1825. Removed to Wytheville in 1828.
Represented Wythe county one term in the Legislature. Was several times
Commonwealth's Attorney of Wythe. Elected to the Thirtieth Congress as
Washington County, 1777-1870.
,759
Aiiilicw h. h Liltou.
a Whig, receiving 2,084, against 2,078 votes for McMuUen, Democrat, and
serving from December 6th, 1847, to March 3d, 1849, and in the year 1852
vi^as elected judge of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit
of Virginia, and held this position for seventeen
years. He died in November, 1884.
FAYETTE McMULLEN.
Was born in Scott county, Virginia. Received an
academic education. Was a stage driver by pro-
fession. Was elected to the Senate of Virginia from
the Washington district in the year 1838, and
served till the year 1849. Was elected as a repre-
sentative of Virginia in the Thirty-first Congress as
a Democrat, receiving 4,421 votes, against 2,155
votes for George, Whig. Was reelected to the
Thirty-second and Tliirty-third Congresses, having
no opposition. Was reelected to the Thirty-fourth Congress, receiving 7,383
votes, against 3,982 votes for Connally F. Trigg, American, serving from
December 3d, 1849, to March 3d, 1857. Was appointed
by President Buchanan Governor of Washington Ter-
ritory, serving 1857-1861. Was elected a representa-
tive in the Second Confederate Congress from Vir-
ginia, serving from February 22d, 1864, to the over-
throw of the Confederacy. Was many times a candi-
date for Congress subsequently to the war, and died in
the year 1881, having been killed on the railroad near
Marion, Virginia.
ELBERT S. MARTIN.
Born in Indiana. Removed to Lee county, and was F=iy<^-"e McMullen.
reared in Jonesville. Educated at Emory and Henry
College; married Martha Dickenson in 1852. Was a
merchant by profession. Was elected to the Thirty-
sixth Congress as an American, receiving 6,382 votes,
against 5,579 votes for Ben Rush Floyd, Democrat,
serving from December 5th, 1859, to March 3d, 1861.
Was elected captain of the first company that left
Jonesville for the Confederate service, and remained
in the sei-vice until the surrender. Emigrated to
Texas in 1870, and died in the city of Dallas on Sep-
tember 3d, 1876. His daughter, Mrs. Dr. M. L. Stal-
lard, now lives at Norton, Va.
Gilbert S. Martin
WALTER PRESTON.
Son of John M. Preston. Born in Abingdon, Virginia. Educated for the
bar. He became distinguished in his profession as a la\vyer and an orator.
760
Southwest Virginia, 17 Ji 6-17 86.
Candidate for Attorney-General of Virginia previously to the war between
the States. Was elected to the Confederate Congress in November, 1861,
defeating Fayette McMulIen. Died shortly after the war.
JAMES KING GIBSON.
Son of John and Amelia C. Gibson. Born in Abingdon February 18th,
1812. Received a common school education, and was brought up in a store.
Went to Limestone county, Alabama, in 1833, and engaged in mercantile
pursuits. Returned to Virginia, and was deputy
sheriff of Washington county in 1834, and again in
1835. Wais a merchant in Abingdon from 1835 to
1840. Was postmaster at Abingdon (a distribu-
ting office) from 1838 to 1849, by the appoint-
ments of Presidents Van Buren, Tyler and Polk.
Was appointed teller and clerk in the branch of
the Exchange Bank of Virginia at Abingdon in
1849; also notaiy public, and held all these offices
until after the war, when he became a farmer, and
was elected a representative from Virginia in the
Forty-first Congress as a Democrat, receiving
James KiiiK (^ii'son. 14,508 votes, against 5,966 votes for Smith, Radi-
cal, .serving from January 28th, 1870, to March 3d, 1871. Died March 30th,
1879.
WIIXIAM TERRY.
William Terry was born in Amherst county, Virginia, August 14th, 1824.
Received a classical education, graduating at the University of Virginia in
1848. Taught school. Studied law, was admitted to
the bar, and commenced practice at Wytheville in
September, 1851. Was for some eighteen months ono
of the editors and proprietors of the Telegraph. Was
in the military service of Virginia in the "John
Brown raid" in 1859. Entered the Confederate army
in April, 1861, as lieutenant in the Fourth Virginia
Infantry, "Stonewall Brigade." Served during the
war, and by successive promotions attained the rank
of brigadier-general March 20th, 1864. Was elected a
representative from Virginia in the Forty-second
Congress as a Conservative, receiving 10,398 votes,
against 4,384 votes for F. McMullen, Independent
Democrat, and 3,922 votes for R. W. Hughes, Republican, serving from
March 4th, 1871, to March 3d, 1873. Was again elected to the Forty-fourth
Congress as a Conservative, receiving 8,052 votes, against 1,821 votes for
G. W. Henderlite, Republican, and 6,760 votes for F. McMullen, Independent,
serving from December 6th, 1875, to March 3d, 1877. He was accidentally
drowned in Wohlford's Ford, E,eed Creek, two miles south of Wytheville,
when returning from Grayson County Court, the 5th of September, 1888.
William Terry
Washington County, 1777-1870.
,761
REES T. BOWEN.
Was born at Maiden Spring, Tazewell county, Virginia, January 10th,
1809. Received an academical education at home and at the Abingdon
Academy. Was a farmer and grazier. Married Maria Louisa Peery, Janu-
ary 13, 1835. Was appointed brigadier-general of Virginia militia by Gov-
ernor Wise. Represented Tazewell county in the
Legislature of Virginia in 1863-1864. W^as elected
to the Forty-third Congress as a Conservative, re-
ceiving 10,352 votes, against 5,304 votes for R. W.
Hughes, serving from December 1st, 1873, to March
3d, 1875. Died August 29th, 1879. Was a direct
lineal descendant of Lieutenant Rees Bowen, who
was killed at the battle of King's Mountain.
A. L. PRIDEMORE.
Was born in Scott county, Virginia, June 27th,
1837. Was brought up on a farm. By his own exer-
tions, alternately teaching and going to school, he at-
tained a fair English education. In August, 1861,
he raised a company of volunteer infantry, and served
as its captain until 1862, when he was promoted to
major of the Twenty-first Battalion of Virginia In-
fantry. Was again promoted in December, 1862, to lieu-
tenant-colonel of infantry, and in October, 1863, colo-
nel of cavalry, and commanded the Sixty-fourth Vir-
ginia Cavalry until the close of the war. Was elected
a member of the Virginia House of Delegates in
March, 1865, but the close of the war prevented him
from taking his seat. Commenced the study of law in
1865. Was admitted to the bar and practised at Jones-
ville. Was a member of the Virginia State Senate 1871-
1875, and was elected a representative from Vii"ginia'
in the Forty-second Congress as a Democrat, receiv-
ing 15,127 votes, against 4,791 votes for George T.
Egbert, Republican, serving from March 3d,
1877, to 1879. Died at his home, in Jonesville, Lee
county. May 17th, 1900.
Rees T. Bowen.
A. L. Prld^more.
JAMES BUCHANAN RICHMOND.
Was born in Turkey Cove, Lee county, Virginia, on
the 27th day February, 1847. Received a limited
education at Emory and Henry College. Practised
law in the circuit and county courts of Lee, Scott
and Wise counties, Virginia, and in the Court of
Appeals at Wytheville, Virginia. Held the office of orderly sergeant and
captain of Company "A," Fiftieth Virginia Infantry, during the first year
James B. Richmoud.
762
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6.
of the war, in the command of General John B. Floyd, of Virginia. Wa^
afterwards major of the Sixty-fourth Virginia Regiment for a time. Was
promoted to lieutenant-colonel, Sixty-fourth Virginia Regiment, some time
before the close of the war, and was elected to the Forty-sixth Congress as
a Democrat, receiving 5,120 votes, against 4,829 votes for Fayette McMullen,
Independent; 4,640 votes for Samuel W. Newberry, Independent, and 613
votes for Camp, Republican. Was a member of the House of Delegates from
Scott county in 1873. Judge of the County Court of
Scott county for six years, beginning in the year 1885.
Advocated sound money in his candidacy for Congress
in the year 1877. Was a member of the Constitutional
Convention of 1901-1902. Now actively practicing law
at Gate City, Virginia.
COLONEL ABRAM FULKERSON.
Colonel Fulkerson was born on the 13th day of May,
1834, four miles north of Bristol, in Washington county,
Gol Abmm Fulkerson Virginia. His father was Abram Fulkerson, a captain
in the war of 1812, and his mother was Margaret Vance.
He graduated at the Virginia Military Institute in 1857. Taught school at
Palmyra, Virginia, and at Rogersville, Tennessee, and w^as at the latter
place when the civil war began. He raised a company in Hawkins county,
Tennessee, and joined the Ninth Tennessee Regiment at Knoxville, and was
elected major of the regiment. Was severely wounded at the battle of
Shiloh. He assisted in organizing the Sixty-third Tennessee Regiment, and
was commissioned colonel on the 12th day of February, 1864, and was again
wounded at the battle of Chickamauga. In 1866 he began the practice of
law, and rapidly rose to the front ranks. He was elected to the Virginia
House of Delegates in 1871-1873; to the Senate of Virginia in 1877-1879.
Was elected to the Forty-seventh Congress as a Re-
adjuister, receiving 8,096 votes, against 7,621 votes
for C. F. Trigg, Funder; 3,640 votes for G. G.
Goodell, Republican, and 500 votes for Fayette Mc- fS ^^ " K
Mullen, Independent. He died on December 17th,
1902, at his home, in Bristol, Virginia.
HENRY BOWEN.
Son of Rees T. Bowen. Was born at Maiden
Spring, Tazewell county, Virginia, December 26th,
1841. Received a collegiate education. Entered
th« Confederate army in 1861 ; served continuously
most of the time as captain of cavalry in Payne's
Brigade, Lee's Division, Army of Northern Virginia, until December 21st,
1864, when he was captured in a night attack by Sheridan'is cavalry at Lacy
vSprings, Virginia. When released from Fort Delaware, Delaware, June
19th, 1865, returned to Virginia and engaged in farming and grazing. In
JIcniN l!i)\vrn
Washington County, 1777-1870.
763
1869 was elected to the Virginia Legislature, and reelected in 1871. In
1882 was elected to Congress as a Readjuster, and was elected to the Fiftieth
Congress as a Republican, receiving 13,497 votes, against 9,927 votes for
R. R. Henry, Democrat.
Connally F. Triiic:.
CONNALLY F. TRIGG.
Was born at Abingdon September 18th, 1847. Is a lawyer. Was elected
Commonwealth's Attorney for Washington county in 1872, which position
he held until he resigned in 1884. Was elected to the
Forty-ninth Congress as a Democrat, receiving 13,844
votes, against 12,650 votes for D. F. Bailey, Republi-
can.
JOHN ALEXANDER BUCHANAN.
Was bom October 7th, 1843. Was a private in the
Stonewall Brigade, Confederate army. W^as taken
prisoner at Gettysburg July 3d, 1863, and remained
in prison until February, 1865. Graduated from
Emory and Henry College, Emory, Virginia, June,
1870. Studied law at the University of Virginia,
1870-1871. Was a member of the House of Delegates
of Virginia from 1885 until 1887. Wais elected to the
Fifty-first Congress as a Democrat, receiving 16,520
votes, against 16,042 votes for Henry Bowen, Repub-
lican. Was reelected to the Fifty-second Congress by
an overwnelming majority ; declined a renomination,
and was soon thereafter elected judge of the Court of
Appeals of Virginia, which position he now occupias.
_ JAMES W. MARSHALL.
Mr. Marshall was born in Augusta county, Vir-
ginia, March 31st, 1844. Served as a private soldier
for four years in Confederate amiy commanded by
General R. E. Lee. Attended Roanoke College part
of two sessions, and graduated from same in 1870. Studied law and was
admitted to the bar. Was elected Commonwealth's Attorney for Craig
county in 1870; served until 1875. Elected to Virginia Senate in 1875, and
served four years. Elected a member of the General Assembly of Virginia
in 1882-1883. Elected Commonwealth's Attorney for Craig county in 1884,
and served until 1888. Was a presidential elector on the Cleveland and
Thurman ticket in 1888. Elected to the Virginia Senate in 1891 for a term
of four years, and was elected to the Fifty-third Congress as a Democrat,
receiving 18,431 votes, against 12,699 votes for H. C. Wood, Republican;
1,709 votes for George W. Cowan, People's party, and 135 votes scattering.
Elected a member of the Virginia Constitutional Convention 1901-1902.
Now practising law at Newcastle, Craig county, Virginia.
John A. Buchanan.
764
Southwest Virginia, 17J,G-1786.
JAMES ALEXANDER WALKER.
Was born in Augusta county, Virginia, August 27th, 1832. Was edu-
cated at the Virginia Military Institute. Studied law at the University of
Virginia dviring the sessions of 1854 and 1855. Began the practice of law in
Pulaski county, Virginia, in 1856, and followed the practice of his profes-
sion until his death, which occurred on October 20th,
1901. Entered the Confederate army in April, 1861,
as captain of the Pulaski Guards, afterwards Com-
pany C, Fourth Virginia Infantry, Stonewall Brigade.
Was promoted to lieutenant-colonel and asisigned to
the Tliirteenth Virginia Infantry (A. P. Hill, colonel)
in July, 1861. Promoted to colonel of the Thirteenth
Virginia Infantry in March, 1862, and May, 1863, was
promoted to brigadier-general and assigned to com-
mand of the "Stonewall Brigade." Commanded
Early's old division at the surrender at Appomattox.
Was severely wounded at Spotsylvania Courthouse
May 12th, 1864. Elected Commonwealth's Attorney
for Pulaski county in 1860. Represented Pulaski county in the House of
Delegates of Virginia in 1871-1872. Was elected Lieutenant-Governor of
Virginia in 1877. Removed to Wytheville, where he practiced his profes-
sion. Was elected to the Fifty-fourth Congress as a Republican, defeating
Judge H. S. K. Morrison, of Scott county. Democrat, by about 1,000 ma-
jority, and was reelected to the Fifty-fifth Congress, receiving 16,077 votes,
against 14,900 votes for S. W. Williams, Democrat.
James A. Walker.
WILLIAM FRANCIS RHEA.
Was bom in Washington county, Virginia, forty-seven years ago. Worked
on a farm and attended oldfield School until sixteen years of age. Attended
college about three years, then studied law and was admitted to the bar.
Soon afterwards w^as elected judge of the County Court of Washington
county. Served four years, and was then elected to the State Senate.
SerA'ed four years, and was then elected judge of the
City Court of Bristol. In 1895 resigned the city
judgeship and resumed the practice of law. Was
unanimously nominated by the Democratic i^arty and
elected to the Fifty-sixth Congress, and was reelected
to the Fifty -seventh Congress, receiving 20,163 votes,
to 18,412 for James A. Walker, Republican.
CAMPBELL SLEMP.
Campbell i^lt mp,
Was born in Lee county, Virginia, Drcember 2d.
1839. Until 1880 was allied with the Democratic
party. Was reared on a farm, and has been a farmer most of his life, being
also engaged in the live-stock business and in trading in coal and timber
Washington County, 1777-1870. 765
lauds. Was a student at Emory aud Henry College, Virginia, but did nor
graduate, owing to the death of his father. Served in the Confederate
army as captain and lieutenant-colonel in the Twenty-first Virginia Bat-
talion, and as colonel of the Sixty-fourth Regiment, whicli wa.s both infantry
and cavalry. Was elected to the House of Delegates in 1879 and 1881; was
defeated by forty votes in 1883. Ran for Lieutenant-Governor with Wm.
Mahone in 1889. Was elector on the Harrison ticket in 1888, and on tlie
McKinley ticket in 1896. Was married in 1864 to Miss Nannie B. Cawood,
of Owlsey county, Kentucky. Was elected to the Fifty-eighth Congress, re-
ceiving 13,694 votes, to 13,476 for Wm. F. Rhea, Democrat.
UNITED STATES SENATOR.
JOHN WARFIELD JOHNSTON.
The subject of this sketch was born at "Panicello," one-quarter of a mile
east of Abingdon, at the home of his grandfather. Judge Peter Johnston, in
the year 1818. He was the son of Dr. John W. Johnston and Louisa Bowen
Johnston. He was educated at the Abingdon Academy, University of Soutli
Carolina, and the University of Virginia. He mar-
ried Miss Narcissa Floj'd, daughter of Governor John
Floyd and sister of Governor John B. Floyd. He
was licensed to practice law and admitted to the bar
in 1840, and began the practice of his profession at
Tazewell Courthouse. He served as Commonwealth's
Attorney for the county of Tazewell, was elected a
member of the State Senate from the Tazewell dis-
trict, and in the year 1859 removed to Abingdon, and
after some years established himself at "Eggleston,"
the name of his country seat, four miles east of Abing-
1 I -rxx t'.^ . ^on (now the county poorhouse). In the year 1869
John W. Johnston. , , . , ^ , ^ .
he became judge of the Circuit. Court, which position
he held a little more than ten months, when he resigned to take his seat in
the Senate of the United States. He was three times elected by the General
Assembly of Virginia a Senator in the Congress of the United States from
Virginia, serving from 1870-1883. He died in Richmond in 1890, and his
remains were interred in the Catholic Cemetery at Wytheville. He was
survived by his wife and 'the following children: Dr. Geo. Ben Johnston,
of Richmond; Joseph B. Johnston, of Richmond; Mrs. Louisa Bowen Trigg,
wife of Daniel Trigg, of Abingdon; Mrs. Sallie J. Lee, wife of Captain Henry
C. Lee; Mrs. Lavalette McMullen, wife of John F. McMullen, of Elliott
City, Maryland, and Misses Letitia Floyd Johnston and Coralie Henry
Johnston.
766
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
GOVERNORS OF VIRGINIA.
WYNDHAM ROBERTSON.
The subject of this sketch was the son of William Robertson and Chris-
tina Williams, his wife, and was born on the 26th of January, 1803, in the
city of Richmond. He attended private schools in his native city, and com-
pleted his education at William and Mary College in the year 1821. Studied
law and was admitted to the bar in 1824. Was elected a member of th".
Council of the State in 1833, and on the 31st of March, 1836, became the
senior member of the Council, and as such Lieutenant-Governor of the State,
and upon the resignation of Governor Tazewell, in
the same year, he became Governor of Virginia. Gov-
ernor Robertson was a Whig in politics, and the
Legislature being Democratic, he was succeeded as
Governor of Virginia in 1837 by David Campbell, of
Abingdon. Upon the expiration of the term of his
office, in March, 1837, he retired to the country home
of his wife, "Mary's Meadows," near to and south of
Abingdon (his wife was Mary Trigg Smith, daughter
of Captain Francis Smith, of Washington county),
where he lived until 1858, when he returned to Rich-
Wyndliam Robertson .niond, and in 1860 was elected a member of the House
of Delegates of Virginia from Richmond city. He
was opposed to Virginia's seceding from the Union, and did all he could to
prevent the war between the States, but after the proclamation of Lincoln
calling for troops from Virginia, he was from that time forth zealously
active in all measures for the defence of his State. After the war he re-
moved to Abingdon, where he died, on the 11th day of February, 1888, and
his remains were interred at Cobbs, Chesterfield county. He was a man of
excellent manners and of considerable ability. He was survived by his wife
and the following children : Frank S. Robertson, Wyndham Robertson,
Mrs. James L. White, ]\Irs. Connally F. Trigg and Mrs. W. W. Blackford.
• DAVID CAMPBELL.
The subject of this sketch was the eldest son of John Campbell and Eliza-
beth McDonald, his wife, of Hall's Bottom, Washington county, Virginia,
and was born on the 2d of AugUiSt, 1779, at Royal Oak (now in Smyth
county ) , and was about eight j^ears of age when his father removed to Hall's
Bottom. There he grew up, receiving such edvication as the frontier settle-
ments could provide. In the year 1794, in his fifteenth year, he was ap-
pointed an ensign in Captain John Davis' company of militia. In 1799 he
was commissioned a captain of a company of light infantry assigned to the
Seventieth Regiment of Militia, and in the fall of the same year he married
his cousin, Mary Hamilton. He studied law, and was licensed, but never
WasMngton Comity, 1777-1870. .767
practised his profession. In 1802 he was appointed deputy clerk of the
County Court of Washington county, and chiefly discharged the duties of
the office to the year 1812. On the 6th of July, 1812, he was commissioned
a major in the Twelfth Regiment of Infantry, United States army, and
marched with the forces to the lakes of Canada, where he served under
Generals Alexander Smji;h and Van Rensselaer. On the 12th of March,
1813, he was conunissioned lieutenant-colonel of the Thirtieth Regiment,
where he served until the year 1814, when he resigned his commission. Upon
his return home he entered the sei^vice of Virginia as aide-de-camp to Gov-
ernor Barbour, and gave valuable assistance in organizing the large military
forces called into the service in the summer of 1814. In the year 1815 he
was elected by the General Assembly as general of the Third Brigade of the
Virginia Militia. On the 25th of January, 1815, he was appointed colonel
of the Third Virginia Cavalry, and was afterwards transferred to the Fifth
Regiment of Cavalry. Upon his return to Abingdon,
he entered the clerk's office, where he remained until
1820, when he was elected a member of the State Senate
from the Abingdon district for the term of four years.
In 1824 he was elected clerk of the County Court of
AVaishington county, which position he occupied until
he took his seat as Governor of Virginia, on the 31st
of March, 1837. Governor Campbell, at the time of
his election, was a Jackson Democrat, but while Gover-
nor, and during the administration of President Van
Buren, the sub-treasury scheme and the standing army David Campbell.
bill, as they were commonly called, were made party
measures, and being opposed to them, he warmly supported General Harri-
son in the presidential campaign of 1840, and ever after acted with the
Whig party. Governor Campbell, in his first message to the General Assem-
bly, proposed the establishment of the common school system, of which he
was one of the earliest advocates. Upon his retirement from the position
of Governor of the Commonwealth, he was commissioned a justice of the
peace for Washington county, and was diligent in the discharge of his
duties as such until the year 1852, when he retired to private life, after
having spent nearly one-half a century in the public service. In person
Governor Campbell was about five feet eleven inches in height, spare and
erect in carriage, with dark hair and eyes and intellectual countenance and
pleasing manners. He died at "Mont Calm," his home, now the home of
Colonel Cummings, on March 19th, 1859, without issue, and his remains
were interred in Sinking Spring Cemetery, Abingdon, Virginia.
JOHN BUCHANAN FLOYD.
The subject of this sketch was the eldest son of Governor John and Lae-
titia Preston Floyd. He was born at Smithfield (now Blacksburg, Mont-
gomery county, Virginia,) June 1st, 1806. Graduated at the College of
South Carolina in 1826. Studied law, was admitted to the bar in 1828,
and began practise in his native county. Settled in, Washington county in
768 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
1839. In 1847 he was elected a member of the House of Delegates from
Washington county, and while a member of the House of Delegates he was
elected Governor of Virginia, of which office he took charge on January 1st,
1849. The ^Ya«hington monument, which graces the public square in Rich-
mond, was authorized and commenced during the
term of office of Governor Floyd. The corner-stone
was laid on the 22d of February, 1850, in the pres-
ence of a large concourse of people, among the num-
ber being Zachary Taylor, President of the United
States. Governor Floyd was elected a member of the
House of Delegates from Washington county in
1855, served as a presidential elector in 185G,
was appointed Secretary of War in the Cabinet
of James Buchanan in March, 1857, and served until
T I- T, T-,, J December 20th, 1860, when he resigned and became
John B. Floyd. *=
an earnest advocate of secession. He was appointed
brigadier-general in the Confederate States army on May 23d, 1861, and
served with distinction through the war. He was chief in command at Fort
Donaldson when it was besieged by General Grant, but made his escape from
the fort on February 15th, 1862, with 3,000 men. He was commissioned a
major-general by the General Assembly of Virginia, and was authorized to
raise a division of troops from among the classes not embraced in the con-
scription acts of the Southern Confederacy. He died August 26th, 1863, at
Abingdon. He married in early life Sarah Buchanan Preston, daughter of
General Francis Preston, and died without isisue. His remains were interred
hi Sinking Spring Cemetery, Abingdon, Virginia.
JUDGES OF THE COURTS.
SUPERIOR COURT OF LAW.
JUDGE PETER JOHNSTON.
1811-1831.
The subject of this sketch was a son of Peter and Martha Johnston, of
"Longwood," Prince Edward county, Virginia. He was educated at Hamp-
den-Sidney College, receiving a classical education. At the age of seventeen
he ran off from his home and joined Lee's Legion. Was made a lieutenant.
In 1782 he resigned from Lee's Legion, joined the Light Corps formed
by General Greene, and was adjutant, with the rank of captain. Upon the
close of the Revolutionary war he returned to his father's home, studied
law, and practised his profession in Prince Edward and the adjoining coun-
ties. He was elected a member of the Virginia House of Delegates several
times, and was a member at the time of the celebrated resolutions of 1798
1799, an4 the speech that he made upon this occasion waa considered so able
Washington County, 1777-1870.
769
that it was publislied in full in the Register, then the leading paper in tlie
United States. In 1811 he was elected a judge of the General Court and
assigned to the Prince Edward Circuit, but he ex-
changed circuits with Judge Wm. Brockenbrough,
who had been assigned to the Southwest Virginia
Circuit, and came to Abingdon to live, and for
twenty-one years lived at "Panicello," one-fourth
of a mile east of Abingdon, and presided over the
Superior Court of Law for this district with dis-
tinguished ability for more tlian twenty years. He
died December 8th, 1831, and was buried near his
home, in this county. He was commissioned n
brigadier-general by the Legislature in early life,
and left a distinguished family of children. His
wife, Mary Johnston, was the daughter of Valen-
tine Wood and Lucy Henry, his wife, a sister of Patrick Henry and a
woman of distinguished ability. The names of his descendants were John
W. Johnston, Peter Carr Johnston, Edward Johnston, General Jos. E. John-
ston, Beverly Randolph Johnston, Chas. C. Johnston, Benjamin Johnston,
Mrs. Jane C. Mitchell and Algernon Sidney Johnston.
Judtic PrttT Johnston.
CIRCUIT SUPERIOR COURT OF LAW AND CHANCERY.
BENJAMIN ESTILL.
1831-1852.
The subject of this sketch was the son of Benjamin Estill and Kitty
Moffett, who settled upon 1,400 acres of land that they purchased from
Colonel Wm. Christian at Hansonville (now in
Russell county, Virginia,) on January 1st, 177i).
Benjamin Estill, Jr., was born on this farm on
the 13th day of March, 1780. He received an aca-
demic education. Studied law, was admitted to
the bar, and settled in Abingdon. He became the
Attorney for the Commonwealth for this countj^,
and filled the position with distinguished ability
for many years. He was elected a member of the
Legislature from Washington covmty; proposed
and advocated the formation of the county of
Scott, and gave to the county its name. He was a
great admirer of Winfield Scott, with whom he
agreed in politics, and thus sought to honor him.
To the new county seat was given the name of
Estillville (now Gate City). Such was the popularity of Benj. Estill that
in the year 1825 he was elected to the Nineteenth Congress of the United
States from this district, receiving nearly every vote cast, and serving from
Beujiiuiiu EstUl.
770 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
1825-1827. Upon the reorganization of the courts of the Commonwealth,
in the year 1831, he was elected a member of the General Court and as-
signed to the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, comijosed of the counties of Lee,
Scott, Russell, Washington and Tazewell, and served with distinguished
ability in this capacity until the year 1852, when he resigned his office and
moved to a farm in Oldham county, Kentucky, where he died and was
buried, his death occurring on July 14th, 1853. Judgfe Estill was six feet
four inches in height, broad-shouldered and of striking appearance, and is
said to have been the most eloquent man this county has produced in its
history. Persons now living make the statement that the citizens of Abing-
don would close their business houses and crowd the courthouse on the first
day of his court to hear him deliver his charge to the grand jury, such was
his eloquence and attractiveness. While judge of the Circuit Court he lived
in the residence now occupied by Thos. W. White, on Main street, Abingdon,
Virginia, until 1844, and subsequently thereto on a fann about one mile west
of Jonesville, Virginia, on the Mulberry Gap road, and now owned by Judge
Morgan. Fifty years have passed since Judge Estill ceased to move among
the people of Southwest Virginia, still his strong and powerful mind, his
piety, patriotism, eloquence, gentle manners and transcendant legal abilities
are fresh in the memory of our people, and the position attained by him in
the front rank of the men of Southwest Virginia has not been questioned
with the passing of the years. Of him it may be truly said :
" The sweet remembrance of the just
Shall flourish when he sleeps in dust."
What better evidence of the true merit of the man? What a tribute to
his memory.
JUDGE SAMUEL V. FULKERSON.
The subject of this sketch was the son of Abram Fulkerson and Margaret
Vance, and was born at his father's farm (now the John E. Burson farm),
in the lower end of this county, in the year , but
was principally reared in Grainger county, Tennessee.
He enlisted as a private in Colonel McClelland's regi-
ment in the Mexican war, and served throughout the
war with distinction. Studied law and began tho
practice of his profession at Estillville in 1846. Was
elected a member of the Constitutional Convention of
1850. Was elected judge of this circuit, defeating
Jos. Strass, of Tazewell county, in the year 1856, and
served until the spring of the year 1861, when he was
elected and commissioned colonel of the Thirty-
seventh Virginia Regiment of Infantry, and com- ^ ^r ^ ,,
. ...,-?? ^-,1 -.o/^^ I 1 Judge S. V. Fulkerson.
manded this regiment until June 27th, 1862, when he
fell mortally wounded whilst gallantly leading the Third Brigade in a bold
and splendid charge upon one of the enemies' strong positions on the Chicka-
hominy. He died on the following day, and his remains were interred in
the Sinking Spring Cemetery, Abingdon, Virginia. His career, in the words
Washington County, 1777-1870.
m
of another, was bright, brief and useful, and his name deserves to be in-
scribed in the catalogue of the names of the gallant men who died for their
country. Judge Fulkerson was never married.
JOHN A. CAMPBELL.
The subject of this sketch was the son of Edward Campbell. Was bora
at Hall's Bottom, in this county, in the year 1823. Educated at the Abinc,-
don Academy, Emory and Henry College and Vir-
ginia Military Institute. Studied law. and was
licensed in 1846. Was a Whig candidate for the
Legislature from Washington county in 1852.
Member of the Secession Convention of 1861. Com-
missioned colonel of the Forty-eighth Virginia Regi-
ment of Infantry in 1861. Wounded at Winchester.
Virginia, in 1862. Was elected judge of this circuit
in 1863, and served till 1869 with distinguished
ability. Was president of Board of Trustees of
Emory and Henry College for seventeen years. He
was a patriot and the peer of any lawyer that prac-
tised at this bar during the many years of his life.
He married Mary Branch, daughter of Peter Branch, and died witliout issue
June I7th, 1886.
John A. Campbell.
JUDGE JOHN A. KELLY.
The subject of this sketch was born in Lee county, Virginia, June 23' 1,
1821. He spent his early life carrying the mail and acquiring an education.
At the age of sixteen he was employed in the clerk's office of Russell county,
and with the assistance of the Rev. James P. Carroll, clerk of the Russell
court, he attended Emory and Henry College. He taught school in Smyth
and Giles counties, and while teaching in the latter /
coimty he studied law under Samuel Peck, with
whom he afterwards formed a partnership. Was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1843. Was cashier of the North-
western Bank of Virginia from 1854 until after the
war. After the war .he removed to Smyth county and
formed a partnership with Judge Robert A. Richard-
son, and enjoyed a lucrative practice. Was elected a
member of the Legislature from Smyth county in
1869; in February, 1870, was elected judge of the
Sixteenth Circuit; assumed this office on April 23d,
1870, and continued to discharge the duties thereof
until 1894, when he declined a reelection. Judge
Kelly was excellently fitted for the duties of this office, and for nearly
twenty-five years was diligent, upright and learned in the discharge of the
duties of his position. He died at Marion, Virginia, November 17th, 1900.
Judge J no. A. Kelly.
772
Southwest Virginia^ 171^6-1786.
JUDGE JOHN PRESTON SHEFFEY.
The subject of this sketch was the son of James White Sheffey and Ellen
Fairman Preston, his wife, and was born at Marion, Virginia, December
12th, 1837. He graduated at Emory and Henry College in June, 1857.
Studied law at the University of Virginia 1858-'59, and began the practice
of law in 1859. Enlisted in the Confederate army,
served as second and first lieutenant, and was elected
captain of Company "A," Eighth Regiment of Vir-
ginia Cavalry, at the reorganization in 1862; was taken
prisoner at Moorefield, Virginia, August 7th, 1804, and
confined in Camp Chase, Ohio, until February, 1805;
was exchanged, and afterwards joined his company at
Appomattox. He resumed the practice of his profes-
sion, and continued until Januaiy 1st, 1895, when he
assumed the duties of judge of the Sixteenth Circuit of
Virginia, to which position he had been elected by the
General Assembly of Virginia. Was a member of the
Legislature from Smyth county 1893-'94, and several times a member of
the Council of Marion, Virginia. Was married June 19th, 1803, to Miss
Josephine Spiller, and has seven children, all living.
John P. Sheffey.
JUDGE FRANCIS BEATTIE HUTTON.
Was born two miles south of Emory and Henry College, this county,
January 28th, 1858. Is a son of Dr. A. D. Hutton. Was educated in tlie
public schools of the county, Liberty Hall Academy, and Emory and Henry
College, graduating therefrom June, 1877. He read law under Judge Wm.
V. Deadrick, Blountville, Tennessee, and General A. C. Cummings, Abing-
don, Virginia, and at the University of Virginia.
Was admitted to the bar in 1880, and has prac-
tised his profession in Abingdon, in partnership at
first with Professor Jas. H. Gilmore, of Marion, and
afterwards until the present time with Martin H.
Honaker. Was elected judge of the County Court
in December, 1885, which position he resigned in
October, 1886, to accept the position of Assistant
United States Attorney for the Western District of
Virginia, to which position he was appointed by
President Cleveland. He resigned this position upon
the election of President Harrison, and was elected
Commonwealth's Attorney of Washington county in May, 1891, by 2,700
majority. He was elected judge of the Twenty-third Judicial Circuit of
Virginia February 12th, 1903.
Francis B. Hutton.
WasJdngton County, 1777-1870.
,773
COUNTY JUDGES.
REUBEN MURRELL PAGE.
Reuben Muriell Page was born at Abingdon, May Ttli, 1843. In May,
1861, went into the Confederate army as a member of the Washington
Mounted Riflemen (under command of Captain, afterwards General, Wil-
liam E. Jones), which company became Company "D" of the First Regi-
ment of Virginia Cavalry. Was severely wounded
near Newtown, in Frederick count}', November
12th, 1804. Was licensed as a lawyer in February,
1868, after reading law in the office of Campbell &
Humes from the fall of 1865 and serving as deputy
clerk of the County Court, under Major Jas. C.
Campbell, for about fourteen months. Was mar-
ried November, 1868, to Miss Mary Crawford, of
Abingdon. Was the first county judge of Wash-
ington county, being chosen to said jaosition in
April, 1870, and reelected in 1873, continuing in
that office until the beginning of the year 1880.
Was Grand Master of Masons of Virginia, Decem-
ber, 1881, to December, 1883. In 1881 became associated with Colonel Abram
Fulkerson in the practice of law, under the name of Fulkerson & Page,
which law firm afterwards became Fulkerson, Page & Hurt.
Koulx^n ]Sruii('ll Page.
JUDGE GEO. W. WARD, Jr.
Son of Geo. W. Ward. Born at Winchester, Va., July 31st, 1847. Edu-
cated ,at the Virginia Military Institute. Took part in the battle of Ncaa'-
market in May, 1864. Studied law in the law school of Judge Richard
Parker at Winchester arid at the University of Vir-
ginia. Licensed to practise law, and settled at Spring-
field, Missouri, in the year 1872. Came to Abingdon in
1874, began the practice of his profession, and became
the editor of the Ahhigdon Virginian. In the year 1880
he was elected judge of the County Court of this
county, which position he resigned before the expira-
tion of his term. He subsequently filled the ofiice of
Commonwealth's Attorney, and was thereafter twice
elected county judge, which office he held at the time of
his death. He became ill of pneumonia, and died on
the 21st day of January, 1897. Judge Ward was a
scholarly man, was able and energetic, and was recog-
nized as an accurate, painstaking and honest lawyer.
Rosalie Preston, daughter of the Hon. Walter Preston, who, with lier son
and daughter, survived him.
Geo. W. Ward, Ji\
He married Mis-
774
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
JUDGE DAVID CAMPBELL CUMMINGS.
Son of David C. and Eliza White Cummings. Born
June 23d, 1861, in Abingdon. Served as deputy clerk
of the County Court of Washington county from
April, 1882, to July 1st, 1887. Was elected clerk of
the County Court of Washington county, and served
as such from July 1st, 1887, to February 1st, 1897.
Commissioned judge of the County Court of Wash-
ington .county February 1st, 1897, and at the present
time occupies this position. For many years a com-
missioner of accounts, and served as president of the
Board of Directors of the Southwest State Hospital,
David C. Cummings. Marion, Virginia, from 1894 to 1898.
MEMBERS OF CONSTITUTIONAL CONVEi^^ON.
EDWARD CAMPBELL.
Son of John Campbell, of Hall's Bottom. Received an academic educa-
tion. Studied law and was admitted to the bar. Served as Commonwealth's
Attorney for Washington county for many years. Elected a member of the
Constitutional Convention 1829-'30. Brother of Governor David Campbell
and an uncle of Governor Wm. B. Campbell, of Tennessee. He left several
sons, who became distinguished in their several spheres, to-wit : Judge John
A. Campbell, Jos. T. Campbell, and Dr. E. M. Campbell.
COLONEL WM. BYARS.
Was born November 18th, 1776. A man of moderate education, but of
.fine judgment, made accurate by close observation.
he by diligence and excellent management of farm-
ing operations accumulated wealth, much of which
he used in founding and promoting the interest
of Emory and Henry College and for the public
good in general. He was a leading member of tlio
Board of Trustees of Emory and Henry College
for many years. Member of the House of Dele-
gates from Washington county 1809-1812. Can-
didate for Congress 1833. Died February 14th,
1856. Was a member of the Constitutional Con-
vention of 1829-1830.
Col. Win. Byars.
CONNALLY F. TRIGG.
The subject of this sketch was born in Abingdon March 8th, 1810. Studied
law, became a la\vyer of eminent ability, and had but few equals at the
Washington County, 1777-1870.
775
liar. Was elected clerk of the Circuit Court of Washington county, May
12th, 1838. Candidate for Congress in 1855. In 1856 he removed to Knox-
ville, Tennessee, where he was soon recognized as the
peer of any lawyer at the bar. He was appointed
July 2d, 1862, by President Lincoln to the judgeship
of the United States Circuit and District Courts of
Tennessee. By his firmness and decision upon the
bench he did much, if not more than any other one
person in Tennessee, in quieting the turbulent ele-
ments of the State during the terrible days of recon-
struction. He died at his home, a few miles south of
Bristol, Tennessee, April 25th, 1880, and was buried
at Abingdon. Was elected a member of the Consti-
tutional Convention of 1850-1851. Connally F. Trigg
JOSEPH T. CAMPBELL.
Son of Edward Camjjbell, of Hall's Bottom. Born at Hall's Bottom, iu
this county, in the year 1827. He was educated for the law, and settled and
practised his profesision at Abingdon. He took an active part in the war
between the States. Became adjutant of the Thirty-
seventh Virginia Infantry. Was elected Common-
wealth's Attorney of Washington county, and
served from 1862 to 1865. Was a member of the
Constitutional Convention 1867-'68. Was educated
at the Abingdon Academy, University of Virginia
1846-'48. Died April 10th, 1878, at Abingdon.
BENJAMIN RUSH FLOYD.
Was born December 10th, 1811, in Montgomery
county. Was a son of Governor John Floyd and a
Joseph T. Campbell. brother of Governor John B. Floyd. Was educated
at Georgetown College, D. C, in 1832, graduating with the first honors of
his class. Studied law and practised at Wytheville, Virginia, for many
years. A member of the Virginia House of Delegates 1847-1848. Member
of the State Senate from this district 1857-1858. Member of the Constitu-
tional Convention from this district 1850-'51. Defeated for Congress by
Elbert S. Martin 1859, and died in Washington, D. C, February 15th, 1860.
THOMAS M. TATE.
Was born in Rich Valley in 1801. Son of Chas. Tate and Mary Tate, who
was a daughter of General Wm. Tate, who was a general in (he Revolu-
tionary army. His father lived near Broad Ford (now in Smyth county,
Virginia ) . He was by profession a physician. Sheriff of Washington
county. Was several times a member of the Legislature from Smyth county.
\Vas a member of the State Senate from this district in the years 1852
1857. Was appointed Sixth Auditor in the Postoffice Department by Presi-
7Tfi
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
dent Buchanan, and served until Lincoln was inaugurated. He was a. mem-
ber of the Constitutional Convention in 1850-1851.
PRESTON WHITE CAJMPBELL.
Son of Edward and Ellen White Campbell. Bom in Abingdon in the
year . Was educated at the Abingdon Academy and the University of
Virginia. Read law under Judge F. B. Hutton and at
the University of Virginia. Was licensed to practise
law in 1890, and settled at Abingdon. Was elected a
member of the Constit\itional Convention of 1901-
1902.
JOHN C. SUMMERS.
Son of Andrew Summers and Oliva Wirt Hawkins,
his wife. Was born at Gap Mills, Monroe county,
West Virginia, February 1st, 1841. Was educated at
Emory and Heniy College and the University of Vir-
ginia. Was licensed to practise law in 1860. En-
Preston W. Campbell, jj^^g^i ^^ ^ private in the Monroe County Invincibles
in the spring of 1861, and took part in the battles of Scarrie Creek and
Sewell's Mountain. Was elected major of the Sixtieth Virginia Regiment
at the reorganization in 1862, was made lieutenant-colonel in 1863, and was
commissioned a colonel in the Provisional army in 1864. Was under tlic
command of Generals Field and A. P. Hill in the battles around Richmond.
In the absence of the colonel, he commanded the Sixtieth Regiment at
the battle of Cold Harl^or, and when night came on, being hard
pressed by the enemy, he charged them witli bayo-
nets. The conduct of the regiment at this time was
observed by General Hill in person, and on the fol-
lowing day the Secretary of War for the Confederate
States ordered cross bayonets to be inscribed upon
the flag of the regiment. Was caiJtured at Moore-
field in 1864, and imprisoned at Camp Chase, Ohio,
until July, 1865, when he was releai-ed. In March,
1866, he married Miss Nannie ]\I. Preston, daughter
of John F. Preston, of tliis county, and in the san,"
year settled in this cinnity and began In ])r:i(tise his
profession. Was elected Commonwealth's Attorney
of Washington county, and served from 1887-1891.
of the Constitutional Convention of 1901-1002, receiving a majority of 49S
votes over J. H. Winston, Democratic nominee in Washington county, and a
majority of 157 in the district.
.lohii C. Summers.
^^'as elected a memljor
Washington County, 1777-1870.
777
COMMONWEALTH'S ATTORNEYS.
SAMUEL LOGAN.
Born October 19tli, 1799. Educated for the law. Settled at Abingdon,
where he practised his profession. Was Commonwealth's Attorney for
Washington county for more than fifteen years. He died at Prince
Edward Courthouse, Virginia, July 15th, 1855. He was an excellent citizen
and a lawyer of distinguished ability.
GEORGE EAKIN NAFF.
Was born at Jonesboro, Tennessee, July 3d, 1829. Educated at Emory and
Henry College. Won the Robertson prize medal in 1847, in his junior year,
having John Goode, Wm. E. Peters, Everett, Clayton,
Ridgeway, et als., for competitors. Studied and prac-
tised law until 1855, when he took charge of a female
college at Athens, Alabama. Was elected to the presi-
dency of Soule Female College, Murfreesboro, Ten-
nessee, in 1858, which position he held until 1862,
when he died of erysipelas. In 1850 he married Mar-
garet Elizabeth Hope, of this county. Was appointed
and served as Commonwealth's Attorney for this
county in 1855, upon the death of Samuel Logan.
JOHN HENRY ERNEST.
George E. Naff.
John Henry Ernest was bom May 7th, 1825, in
Hanover county, Virginia, and died at his home,
Brook Hall, in 1868. He graduated at William
and Mary College in 1847, and married Amanda J.
Byars, daughter of Colonel Wm. Byars, of this
county. He was elected Commonwealth's Attorney
for Washington county in 1855, and served until
1863. Was provost marshal at Abingdon for two
years during the war. After the war he retired to
his farm and devoted himself to farming. On
March 3d, 1868, while directing some laborers on
his farm who were moving a log, he was crushed
by the log and killed. Colonel Ernest's pastor
says of him: "The writer of these lines knew
him well, and does not hesitate to say that he
never knew a more liberal, kind-hearted and humane man. His liberality
dispensed with the most profuse and lavish kindness the earnings of his
John Henry Ernest.
778
SoutJnvest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
own labor. When the war ended he found a poor man in the mountains wlio
ho.d lost an arm in the service. Instantly his generous heart was moved
with pity, and he clothed him in genteel apparel, sent him to college, and
assumed the whole cost of his education."
REES B. EDMONDSON.
The, subject of this sketch was bom in Tazewell county, and died in the
city of Washington on February 13th, 1901. He was a lawyer by profes-
sion, and practised in Abingdon, Virginia, Mem-
phis, Tennessee, and Washington, D. C. Entered
the Confederate service as second lieutenant, and
served throughout the war. He walfe elected Com-
monwealth's Attorney of Washington county in
18G5, and served for several years.
JOHN L. ROWAN.
Son of Colonel John M. and Virginia Summei-.
Rowan. Was born in Monroe county. West Vir-
ginia, February 25th, 1862. Graduated at Wash-
ington and Lee University in June, 1883. Prac-
tised his profession in Abingdon for several years.
Was appointed Commonwealth's Attorney for the county, and served in tliat
capacity for some time. Removed to Union, Monroe county, West Virginia,
where he has since practised law, serving as prosecuting attorney for that
county for a number of years.
Roes B. Edmondson.
Peter .). I lavcniiorl.
PETER JOHNSTON DAVENPORT.
The subject of this sketch was born near Lindell,
in this county, on the 14th of February, 1863. He
is the son of Elijah P. Davenport, a native of this
county, and Adelia H. Hall, daughter of Dr. John
Hall, of Russell county. Educated in the schools of
the county. Studied law in the office of Colonel
John C. Summers, Abingdon, Virginia. Was licensed
and began the practice of his profession in Abing-
don. Was elected Commonwealth's Attorney for
Washington county in the year 1895, which posi-
tion he has since held, and the duties of which he
has discharged with marked ability.
Wasliingion County, 1777-1870.
STATE SENATORS.
779
Wni. K. Peters.
WM. E. PETERS.
He was bom in Bedford county, Virginia, August 18th, 1829. Received
academic training at New London Academy. Entered Emory and Henry
College in 1840, and graduated in 1848. Taught a
private school at Lynchburg, and entered the Uni-
versity in 1850. In 1853 he was elected to the chair
of ancient languages in Emory and Henry College,
filling this position until 1856, when a leave of ab-
sence was granted him by the Board of Trustees and
he spent two years studying ancient and modern
languages at Berlin, Prussia; after which he re-
sumed his duties at Emory arid Henry. He entered
the Confederate sei'vice as a private in April, 1861 ;
served as lieutenant of cavalry; later as captain,
lieutenant-colonel of infantry and colonel of the
Twenty-first Virginia Cavalry. After having been
three times wounded, he surrendered with his command at Appomattox
Courthouse. Was elected a member of the State Senate from this district
in 1863, which position some months thereafter he resigned. Professor of
Latin in the University of Virginia from 1866 to 1902.
JOSEPH J. GRAHAM.
The subject of this sketch was of Scotch-Irish ancestry. His grandfather,
Robert Graham, emigrated to this country from the north of Ireland prior
to the American Revolution and settled in North Carolina, near Guilford
Courthovise. He was a soldier in the Revolution, and was so harassed by
the Tories that he refugeed to what is now the east-
ern portion of Wythe county, about twelve miles
east of Wytheville, where he accumulated a consid-
erable fortune. Jos. J. Graham was born on one of
the farms owned by his grandfather, near Max Mea-
dows, on the 16th of July, 1811. In his early life
he taught a country school. Afterwards he had em-
ployment with his uncle (David Graham), who was
the pioneer in the iron industry in Southwest Vir-
ginia. After remaining with him some years, he
went to Tennessee, where he was engaged in busi-
nea.s at the outbreak of the Mexican war. He went
witli a body of troops to join Scott's cohunn in
Mexico, and took part in the bombardment of the fortress of Vera Cruz.
After the Mexican war he returned to Wythe county, and for several years
was engaged with the late Colonel James Piper, of Wythe county, in lo-
cating turnpike roads in Southwest Virginia. He was three times elected a
Jo.SPJill
780
Southwest Virginia, nif6-1786.
James S. Greever.
member of the Legislature from Wythe county, and once to the State Senate
from this district. He died April 9th, 1877, without issue.
HERAM A. GREEVER.
Was born October 30th, 1806, and died the 23d day of May, 1882. He was
colonel of militia before the civil war, and served in the House of Dele-
gates from Smyth county. He afterwards served one term as a Senator in
the General Assembly from this district; after which
he retired to private life on his estate, in Smyth
county, a part of which was inherited from his
father, who was among the pioneers of Southwest
Virginia.
JAMES S. 'greever.
General James S. Greever was born September 9th,
1837, and died December 30th, 1895. He was edu-
cated at Emory and Henry College, and was an
honor graduate in the year 1859. The degree of
Master of Arts was conferred upon him in 1867 by the same institution.
When war was declared he entered 'the Confederate service as captain of
Company A, in the Forty-eighth Virginia Infantry. In 1869 he was elected
to the Senate from Smyth and Washington counties. He was reelected at
the expiration of his first term, serving through the administrations of
Walker and Kemper. During this period he married an only daughter of
Mr. Richard Woolfork Scott, of Prince Edward county, Virginia, and left
one child, Miss Virginia Holmes Greever, who, with her mother, survives
him. General Greever was elected a member of the Board of Trustees of
Emory and Henry College in 1875, which place he held until his death. He
also served on the Board of Directors of the Southwest Virginia Hospital,
at Marion. He filled other responsible positions, being for years agent for
th% large and valuable property kno-wn as the "Douglas Lands." When he
died he was president of the Bank of Glade Spring, and
it was largely through his influence that this bank
commenced operations. He died at his home, "West-
view," a fine estate lying along the banks of the Hol-
ston river, near Chilhowie, Virginia, where his- wife
and daughter still reside.
DAVID FLOURNOY BAILEY.
David F. Bailey.
Born January 23d, 1845, in Charlotte county, Vir-
ginia. Came to Bristol before the civil war, where he
has since resided. Learned the art of printing in the
office of the Bristol Neus and at one time owned and edited that paper.
Was a private Confederate soldier in Company A, Thirty-seventh Virginia
Infantry, and later in the cavalry service. Studied law at Cumberland
University, Lebanon, Tennessee, and began the practice of his profession in
July, 1869, at Bristol. Was married February 29th, 1872, to Sarah Eleanor
Washington County, 1777-1870.
,781
Roberts.
I'reston. daiighter of John F. Preston, of "Locust Glen," Washington county,
\ irginia. He represented Washington county in the Legislature of Vir-
ginia 1879-1880, and was chairman of the Judiciary Committee. Was Sena-
tor from Washington and Smyth counties in 1881-1885. Was Republican
nominee for Congress in 1884, and was defeated by C. F. Trigg. Was As-
sistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia during
Harrison's administration. Was a delegate from this district to the Na-
tional Republican Convention at St. Louis in 189G,
and placed in nomination General James A. Walker
for Vice-President of the United States. Was the
Republican elector from this district in the year
1900, and at the present time is referee in bank-
ruptcy for this division.
E. L. ROBERTS.
The subject of this isketch was born at Broad Ford.
Smyth county, Virginia, April 4th, 1831. Was
educated in the common schools of the county, and
held tlie position of Superintendent of Schools for
Smyth county before the war. Soon after the war
he was elected clerk of the county and circuit
courts of Smyth countj^ which position he held for six years. Was twice
elected a member of the House of Delegates from Smyth and Bland counties.
\\'as elected a member of the State Senate from thiis district in the year
1889. Has served as school trustee, sheriff and justice of the peace.
B. F. BUCHANAN.
The subject of this sketch was born in Smyth county, Virginia, and
graduated in the academic department of the University of Virginia in 1880
and the law department in 1884. Was elected a mem-
ber of the State Senate from this district, serving
from 1893 to 1897. Was a delegate to the National
Democratic Convention in 1900, and has been a mem-
ber of the State Democratic Committee for ten years.
Was Grand Commander of the
Grand Commandery of Knights
Templar of Virginia for the
years 1901-1902. Now pi.i.-
lices law at Marion, Va.
CHAS. W. STEELE.
B. F. Buchanan.
The subject of this sketch \\ as
born at Steelesburg, Tazewell
county, Virginia, July 24th, 1858. Married and settled
in this county. Was land assessor in 1895. Elected
a member of the State Senate from this district, and
served from 1897 to 1901.
Cliarles W. Steele.
783
Southwest Virginia, 17 Jf 6-17 86.
J. CLOYD BYARS.
The subject of this sketch was born at his father's farm, "Southern
View," in Washington county, Virginia, on December 9th, 1868. Located at
Bristol in 1891. Admitted to the bar in 1896. Was
elected City Attorney for Bristol in 1899. Was de-
feated for Mayor of Bristol in 1900, and was elected
to the State Senate from the First Senatorial Dis-
trict, composed of the counties of Smyth and Wash-
ington, in the year 1901, which position he now fills.
MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF
DELEGATES.
JOHN GIBSON.
The subject of this sketch Avas born in the Valley j. cioyd Byars.
of Virginia January 1st, 1775, and married Amelia
Carter Cummings, daughter of the Rev. Charles
Cummings, and settled in this county. He was a
captain in the war of 1812 and a member of the
"Legislature from Washington county in the year
1837, and died at liis home, in this county, August
26th, 1863.
ROBERT E. GRANT.
The subject of this sketcli was born on the 2.5th
of September, 1825, in Washington county, Vir-
ginia, and was married in 1850 to Miss Anna Snod-
grass, of this county. Was elected a member of the
John[Gibson.3 Legislature from Washington county in 1855, and a
member of the Secession Convention of 1861. Upon
the breaking out of the war he organized a company,
afterwards Company H of the Thirty-seventh Virginia
Volunteers, of which company he was captain. He en-
tered the service and remained until the surnnder ai
Appomattox. He removed with liis family to Austin,
Texas, in 1872. Died July 17th, 1888, leaving his
wife and several children surviving him.
JACOB LYNCH.
Major Lynch was born in Abingdon in the year 1798,
and died March IGth, 1862. He was educated by Mr.
Samuel Baillie, who taught a school in Abingdon for Robert E. Grant,
many years. He entered the Clerk's office at the age
of fourteen years as a deputy to Andrew Russell, and remained with him for
many years. He then became deputy clerk to David Campbell, and remaineil
Washingion County, 1777-1870.
,783
Jacob Lynch.
with him until he (Campbell) was elected Governor of Virginin. Jacol)
Lynch was then elected clerk of the court, and held this office until 1858,
when he declined a reelection. In the spring of the year 1859 he was elected
a member of the House of Delegates from Washington
county, and served until the spring of 1860, when he
was elected president of the Exchange Bank of Abing-
don, and resigned his position as a member of the Gen-
eral Assembly. He was for many years president of
the Russell Turnpike Company.
DR. ALEXANDER R. PRESTON.
Dr. Preston wais born at "Locust Glen," the home
of his father, Robert Preston, five miles west of Abing-
don, on December 8th, 1805. He was the son of Robt.
Preston, who emigrated to this countiy from Ireland,
and Jennie Preston, his wife, a daughter of Robert
Preston, of Walnut Grove. He received his ecftica-
tion at the Abingdon Academy, and was educated
in medicine at Transylvania College, and practised
his profession in this community until March 5th,
1874, the date of his death. He was elected a mem-
ber of the General Assembly from Washington
county in the year 1860, and was clerk of the Circuit
Court of this county in the year 1870.
DAVID B. CLARK.
The subject of this sketch was born near the Old
Glade Spring Church on the 18th of March, 1827,
tnd died March 12th, 1896. He was for a number of
years a member of the County Court of this county,
a school trustee for Saltville District, and a member
of the House of Delegates from Washington county
in 1863-1865.
Alex. R. Preston.
DAVID CAMPBELL DUNN.
The subject of this sketcli was
born at Abingdon, Virgin! i.
May 7th, 1829. Educated at
the Abingdon Academy. Mem-
ber of Captain J. M. Stephen-,"
Daviii li. Clark. militia company befor? the v\ ""i
In April, 1861, he enlisted .'^
a private in Company B, Floyd's Brigade; pin
moted to captaincy of Company B; second lieuten-
ant of the Sixty-third Virginia Regiment, which Uavid c. Duuu.
position he held until the close of the war. He was wounded at the battle of
Cross Lanes. Was a member of the House of Delegates from Washington
county from 1861 to 1865. Now lives at Couway, South Caroliua.
r84
Southwest Virginia, 174^6-1786.
ARTHUR CAMPBELL CUIIMINGS.
Tlie subject of this sketch is the son of James and Mary Ciiinmings, and
was born October Lst, 1822, on the locution of the first settlement made by
liis great-grandfather, Charles Cumniings, in about the year 1774, at tlie
head of Wolf Hill Creek, about three miles west of Abingdon. Attendeii
the private schools of the neighborhood until appointed a cadet at the
Virginia Military Institute in the year LS41, from which institution he
graduated in 1844. He studied law and wais licensed to practise in 1S4().
When the war between the United States and Mexico commenced, in May,
1846, he raised and was elected captain of two different volunteer com-
panies under a call for volunteers by the United States Government, but
neither company was calkd to go into service. Was commissioned by
President Polk in March, 1847, as captain of Company K, Eleventh Regi-
ment of the United States Infantry, being one of the ten regiments raised
under an act of Congress to serve for five years, or during the war. He
enlisted about thirty-six men at Abingdon and at Chillicothie, Ohio, the
rest of the company being enlisted by the two lieutenants at Wheeling,
Virginia. He was then ordered to join his regiment, and reached Vera
Cruz the 1st of July, 1847; was there attached to the command of Major
Lally, being the first troops to leave Vera Cruz after
the army under General Scott had commenced their
march on the city of Mexico. Captain Cummings
was dangerously wounded in an engagement with a
large force of guerillas concealed in a chaparral, at
a place called Paso Ovejas, near the National Bridge
leading to the City of Mexico, and vvais made brevet
major for gallant conduct in that engagement. He
served as captain until the close of the war, and was
discharged witu the regiment at Fort Hamilton, Long
Island, New York, about September 1st, 1848. Was
appointed division inspector of militia for the Fiftli
Division on October 22d, 1849; was commissioned colonel of the Fifth Regi-
ment of Artillery (militia) July 24th, 1858; was commissioned captain
of the Eleventh Regiment of Infantry (militia) May 20th, 1847. On his
return home he resumed the practice of law. In May, 1861, he was commis-
sioned colonel of Virginia Volunteers; was ordered to report to General
T. J. Jackson at Harper's Ferry, and was by him assigned to the command
of what was then the Second, afterwards the Tenth, Regiment. In June,
1861, by order of General Jackson, he organized the Third Regiment, then
reporting from the adjoining counties. He afterwards organized the Thirty-
A. C. Cummings.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
.785
third Regiment, and was assigned to its command, and this command be-
came a part of the Stonewall Brigade. He commanded this regiment at the
first battle at Manassas and until the reorganization
in 1862. Elected a member of the House of Delegates
from this county in 1863 and again in 1869 and
1871.
GEORGE GRAHAM.
Bom August 9th, 1831, at the location of his pres-
ent residence, in this county. Entered the Confed-
erate service in April, 1861, as first lieutenant of the
Glade Spring Rilles, known in the service as Company
E, Thirty-seventh Virginia Regiment. Was promoted
to captain in Jime, 1861, where he remained until September, 1863, when
he was elected a member of the House of Delegates from Washington
county. Was reelected in- 1869; since which time he has been engaged iu
farming vipon an extensive estate. He married Miss Rebecca Preston,
daughter of Colon'^l Thomas M. Preston.
George Graham.
SELDEN LONGLEY.
Born at Emory and Henry College on tlie 7th of February, 1846, and is
the son of Edmond Longley and. May Hammond Longley. Educated in the
common schools and Emory and Henry College. At the age of seventeen he
entered the Confederate army, first in Captain J. K. P^ambo's company of
Border Rangers; was afterwards transferred to Company F, Twenty-first
Virginia Cavalry, Captain Fred Gray and others commanding. He was
made orderly sergeant soon after he enlisted, and commanded a company for
several months befoi'e the close of the war. When
the war was over he reentered Emory and Henry
College, and in Jime, 1866, won the Robertson prize
medal for oratoiy, and graduated in 1868. He was
elected assistant professor of ancient and modern
languages, and taught at Emory for one year.
Studied law at the University of Virginia, and was
admitted to the bar in 1870. In June, 1870, he was
the final orator of the Washington Literary Society
at the University of Virginia, and in November,
1873, he was elected to the House of Delegates from
Washington county, and in the same year he was
happily married to j\Iiss Leona Howard Jordan,
daughter of Colonel W. J. Jordan, of Pula.ski county. In 1891 he re-
moved to Pulaski county, was appointed judge of the County Court of
that county by Governor Chas. T. O'Ferrall, and was elected by the General
Assembly in 1897 to serve for the term of six years, which position he now
occupies.
Selden Longley.
:s6
Southwest Virginiaj 17 Jf 6-1786.
ISAAC CHAPMAN FOWLER.
The subject of this sketch was born at Tazewell, Virginia, September 23d,
1831, but was principally reared near Red Sulphur Springs (now West Vir-
ginia). Was educated at Emory and Henry Col-
lege. Was engaged in mercantile pursuits at
Tazewell from April, 1852, until October, 1860,
when he removed to Emory and engaged in mer-
cliandising there until all of his property was
swept away by the war. Was connected with the
Commissary Department of the Confederate
States under General Breckenridge. After the
close of tlie war he removed to Bristol. Was
five times Mayor of that town. Represented
Washington county in the House of Delegates
for six years, during which time he was Speaker
of the House of Delegates. Was owner and editor
of the Bristol News from August, 1868, until
Isaac Chapman Fowler. February, 1884, at which time he was appointed
clerk of the United States Court, Abingdon, Vir-
ginia, which position he now holds.
CHARLES B. COALE.
Was born in Maryland in 1807. He came to
Abingdon and became associate editor and proprie-
tor of the Abingdon Virginian, in 1837. In 1841 he
associated himself with Geo. R. Barr and began
the publication of the Aiingdon Virginian. To-
gether they continued to own and publish the
Abingdon Virginian until February, 1873. Wa.s
elected a member of the House of Delegates from
this county in the year 1875. Was the author of a
book entitled "Wilbum Waters," in which much of
the history of this county has been preserved. While
not a native of this county, he contributed his time
and energy to a greater extent than any that had pre-
ceded him in preserving the history of the county.
Was an actiA^e member of the I. 0. 0. F. Lodge, of
Abingdon, Virginia, and took an active part in the
founding of Martha Washington College. He died on
January 3d, 1879, and was buried in Sinking Spring
Cemetery. He left no descendants.
Charles B. Coale.
Jonas 8. Kelly.
JONAS S. KELLY.
The subject of this sketch wa.s bora near Emory,
Virginia, February 22d, 1819; died November 29th, 1895. He was a mem-
WasJiingtoji County, 1777-1870.
787
Daniel Trigs
ber of the House of Delegates from Washington county for eight years. Was
a member of the Board of Supervisors from Saltville District for many
years. He was one of the most popular men that
ever appeared before the people of Washington
county.
DANIEL TRIGG.
The subject of this sketch is a son of Dr. Daniel
Trigg and Anna Munford Trigg, daughter of Alexan-
der Tompkins, and was born in Abingdon on the 12th
day of March, 1843. Was educated at the Naval
Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, resigned there-
from in 1861 and joined the Confederate States navy,
and served therein throughout the war, attaining the
rank of lieutenant. After the war he studied law,
was licensed, and settled in Arkansas in the year 1868, but returned to
Abingdon and settled in the year 1869, where he has since practised his pro-
fession with success. Was elected a member of the
House of Delegates from Washington county in
the year 1882, and took high rank in the proceed-
ings of the following sessions of the General As-
sembly. He married INIiss Louisa Bowen Johnston,
daughter of Judge John W. Johnston, and has
three sons and two daughters now living.
CHAS. W. ALDERSON.
Born at Lebanon, Russell county, Virginia, June
21st, 1846. Settled in Washington county. Was
elected a justice for the Glade Spring District ^or
the year 1887. Was elected a member of the
House of Delegates from Washington county in the year 1891. Served as
school trustee in Glade Spring District from 1896 to 1900.
Chas. W. Alderson.
L. H. SNODGRASS.
The subject of this sketch was born in Sulb'van
county, Tennessee, June 18th, 1859. Married and
settled at Craig's M:lls, in this county. Served a^^
supervisor and school trustee of Kinderhook Dis-
trict for several years. Was elected a member of the
House of Delegates from Washington county in 18!^!
JAMES CROW.
James Crow was born near Friendship, October
15th, 1821, and died November 14th, 1902. He was
the descendant of one of the original settlers of this L. H. Snodgrass.
county. Wa.s well known and respected for his fine character and ability.
Was a justice of the peace for fifteen years; supervisor, first of Glade Spring
788
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
District and afterwards of Ilolst^n District for a miniber of years. Was
elected a member of the House of Representatives from this county in 1881).
He accumulated a considerable fortune and left very respectable descendants.
E. S. KENDRICK.
Was born in New Garden, Russell county, Virginia, September 20th,
Removed to Bristol in 1882. Was a member of the Washington
School Board for Goodson District for several yeais
and a member of the Town Covmcil for Goodson foi
four years. Represented Washington county in the
House of Delegates 1889-1890, and during this time
secured an act of the General Assembly changing
the name of Goodson to the city of Bristol. Was a
member of the City Council for Bristol for four
years and a member of the
School Board of the city.
Again represented Washing
ton county and- the city of
Bristol in the House of Dele-
gates in the years 1893-1894.
E. S. Ken d rick.
James Crow.
ANDREW F. RAMBO.
The subject of this sketch was born near Palestine,
in this county, July 5th, 1845. Educated in the
schools of the county. Has been a merchant most of
his life. Joined the Washington Mounted Rifles in
April, 18G1 ; served through the war. Has been
postmaster at Palestine since 1881. Was elected a y-,,^
member of the House of Delegates from Washington ^
county in the year 1895.
JOSEPH M. BUTT.
Was born four miles north-
west of Abingdon, October
29th, 1846. Was the youngest
child of Rignal and Sarah
Butt. Served as lieutenant in
Company E, Thirteenth Bat-
talion of Virginia Reserves.
Was elected a member of the House of Delegates from
Wa^shington county in 1895. Twice married — first to
Theresa J. Lyon, of Washington county, and secondly
to Fannie A. Drinkard, of Richmond, Virginia.
Andrew F. Rambo.
Joseph M. Butt,
W. H. TOMNEY.
Great-grandson of Christopher Simmerman, who gave the land for the
location of the town of Wytheville. Was born in Wytheville, September
Washington County, 1777-1870.
789
15th, 1862. Has spent his life in the newspaper business. Was elected a
member of the House of Delegates from Washington county in the year 18i);^,
at which time he was the editor of the Glade Spring Citizen.
JOHN ROBERTS.
Born on the head waters of Rattle Creek, in this county, five miles north
of Abingdon, on December 9th, 1834. Was the son of Henry and Elizabeth
Roberts. Was captain of militia in 1858. Enlisted
as a private in Comi)any I, Forty-eighth Virginia
Regiment, in 18G1, and was elected lieutenant of
the company at the reorganization in 18G2. He
lost his right leg at the battle of Chancellorsville,
May 3d, 1862. Was appointed purchasing agent
for the county in 1864.
Twice represented North
Fork District as a super-
viisor. Elected a member
of the Legislature in 1887.
Has served as Commis-
sioner of the Revenue for the Western District since
1895.
SAMUEL P. EDMONDSON.
W. Jl. Tuiiin
John Roberts.
The subject of this sketch is a direct lineal de-
scendant of one of the heroes of King's Mountain.
He was born in this county, educated in the schools
of the county, and for many years has been a veiy
successful farmer and cattle trader. Has held a
number of very responsible positions. Was elected
a member of the House of Delegates from Washmg
ton county in the year 1887.
Samuel P. Edmondson,
Charles H. Jennings.
CHAS. H. JENNINGS.,
Born in Bristol, Vii
ginia, Februaiy 9th, 18G5
Has lived in Abingdon
since January 1st, 1883.
Member of the To\\ti Coun-
cil and the School Board of Cave City School Dis-
trict. ISIarried Miss Hattie McChesney Jones, De-
cember 9th, 1884. Was elected a member of the
House of Delegates from Washington county in
1897. Is now the proprietor of the Hattie House
and of Jennings' drug store, Abingdon, Va.
THOMAS J. CAMPBELL.
The subject of this sketch is a son of Wm. B. Campbell, and was reared
on the Jonesboro road, about nine miles west of Abingdon. Has been a
790
Southwest Virginiaj 1 7 Jf 6-1786.
fiirruer all his life. Was elected a member of the Hoase of Delegates from
Washington eountj' in 1897.
,)U11N W. PRICE.
John W. Price, a son of Rev. Wm. H. Price, was born at his father's home,
on the Middle Fork of Holston river, in this county. Was educated at Emory
and Henry College. Studied medicine and gradu-
ated with high honors. Afterwards studied law, and
settled and began to practise his profession in Abing-
don in 1894. Was an unsuccessful candidate for
Commonwealth's Attorney in 1895. In the follow-
ing year removed to Bristol, where he has since
practised his profession with success. Was elected
a member of the House of Delegates from Washing-
ton county and the city of Bristol in 1899, and was
recently elected judge of the Corporation Court for
the city of Bristol for the terra beginning February
1st, 1904.
.Jolin W. Frice.
C. H. McCLUNG.
The subject of this sketch was born on a farm in
Greenbrier county (now West Virginia), April 30th,
1841. Was educated in the common schools of his
county. Entered the Confederate service as a pri-
vate in Company C, Nineteenth Virginia Regiment
of Cavalry, in 1861, and served as such until 1864,
when he became adjutant of his regiment. Was cap-
tured in the fall of that year, and remained a pris-
oner at Camp Chase, Ohio, until after the close of
the war. After the war he began farming, and at
times managed hands in the grading of the Chesa-
peake and Ohio railway on New River, West Virginia.
Was appointed sheriff and treasurer of Fayette county,
West Virginia, in 1877, and at the following election
was elected to the same office for the term of four years.
In 1888 he removed to Meadow View, Washington
county, Virginia. In 1895 was a candidate for treas-
urer of Washington county, but was defeated by S. M.
Withers. Was elected a member of the House of Dele-
gates from this county in the year 1899; since which
time he has been farming and merchandising.
C. H. McClung.
A. J. Huff.
A. J. HUFF.
The subject of this sketch was born in Roanoke
county, May 27th, 1865. He has been an extensive farmer and stock-raiser
since maturily; is a part owner of the Byars' farm, in the upper end of this
Washington County, 1777-1870.
791
county, and has lived in this county since October 15th, 1001. Was elected
a member of the House of Delegates from this county in the year 1901.
J. W. .Molt.
J. W. MORT.
Was born in Strasburg, Shenandoah county, Virginia, September 10th,
1855. Moved to Bristol in 1876. Was appointed Commissioner of the Reve-
nue for the city of Bristol in 1890. Was afterwards elected to succeed him-
self four times in that office, and served ten years. Was twice elected a
member of the City Council. Was elected a member
of the House of Delegates from Washington county
and the city of Bristol in 1901.
CHARLES STUART BEKEM.
Charles Stuart Bekem was bom in Abingdon, Vir-
ginia, December 25th, 1802, and died in his native
town, August 19th, 1875, in the seventy-second year
of his age. He was the son of William and Jane
Bekem, who came to America from Ireland before the
close of the eighteenth century and settled in Abing-
don. Mrs. Bekem was a sister of Lieutenant John
Carson, of the First Continental Artillery, who died the 12th of September,
1781, of wounds received at Eutaw Springs, South Carolina, 8th September,
1781, and of Chas. S. Carson, who was a^soldier in the war of 1812, and who
figured conspicuously in the business affairs of Southwest Virginia. Tlie
subject of this sketch was a graduate of Washington College, Tennessee.
Mr. Bekem was a prominent lawyer, distinguished for his hon&sty and in-
tegrity, and was called upon often to represent his county in tlie Legislature,
which he did with great fidelity. He was Commonwealth's Attorney for the
counties of Washington and Russell, and achieved quite
a reputation in this capacity for uprightness of conduct
and fair dealing with those he had to prosecute. Mr.
Bekem had as his contemporaries at the bar such men as
James W. Sheffey, Samuel Logan, Arthur C. Cummings.
John W. Johnston, John A. and Jos. T. Campbell, and
others equally as prominent. Mr. Bekem was a promi-
nent Mason. In politics he was a Whig, and was an
ardent admirer of the principles of that party, his coun-
sel often being sought in regard to party affairs. Mr.
Bekem had three sisters — Margaret C, who never mar-
ried ; Sallie K., who married W^m. King, of Saltville, and
Jane Eliza, who married Rev. Lewis F. Cosby, D. D. ; two brothers, John C.
and James C, who died unmarried. In religious belief the Bekems were
Presbyterians.
JOHN CAMPBELL.
The subject of this sketch was the son of David Campbell, and was born
in Augusta county. In about ^he year 1765 he accompanied Dr. Thomas
Chas. S. Bekem.
792 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
Walker to the waters of the Holston, and with his father and brothers pur-
chased a valuable tract of land on the waters of the Middle Fork of Holston
river, called the "Royal Oak," now about one mile east of Marion, Virginia.
He was a captain of militia and took part in the battle of Long Island
Flats. He was a member of the County Court of Washington county,
became clerk of the court of the county in tlie year 1779, and served until
1815, thirty-six years. About the beginning of the nineteenth century he
purchased from Jacob Young a valuable tract of land in the lower end of
this county, since known as "Hall's Bottom." This Jacob Young came
directly from Germany with a large household; was a wealthy man, and
lived and ruled his household and tenantry like a lord. To this tract of
land John Campbell removed and lived for many years, and reared a large
family of children, many of whom became distinguished. John Campbell,
his son, was for ten years treasurer of the United States, and represented
this county in the Legislature before he was twenty-one years of age. David
Campbell, his son, was for twenty-two years clerk of the County Court of
this county, member of the Senate of Virginia for four years, and Governor
of Virginia from 1837 to 1841. A grandson, Wm. B. Campbell, was Gover-
nor of Tennessee, and a brother-in-law, Archibald Roane, the husband of Ann
Campbell, was judge of the Supreme Court of the State of Tennessee and
Governor of that State from 1801 to 1804. Another son, Edward Camp-
bell, was a distinguished lawyer, and lived in this county.
COLONEL JOHN PRESTON.
The subject of this sketch was the son of Robert Preston, the first sur-
veyor of this county. He was born in Abingdon in 1781, and died tit
Walnut Grove in 1805. He was educated for the law, but never practised
his profession. The landed estate inherited by him from his father was
immense, and he devoted his life to farming pursuits. He was for many
years presiding justice of the County Court for Washington county, and
exercised great influence in his time. He left a large and highly respectable
family of children.
COLONEL JOHN CAMPBELL.
The subject of this sketch was the son of John Campbell, and was born
at Royal Oak in about the year 1791. He was educated at the Abingdon
Academy, and in the year 1811 was elected a member of the House of Dele-
gates from Washington county, became a member of the Council of State,
and acquired an excellent reputation. In the year 1818 he decided to settle
in Alabama, and President James Monroe, when informed of that fact, ad-
dressed the following communication to Governor Bibb, of Huntsville, Ala-
bama, in regard to Colonel Campbell :
Louisville, June 24th, 1819.
Dear Sik :
Had I seen you when at Huntsville I should have spoken to you
and recorowCTded to jroyr kini »UmUon ^^jor Joh» Cfimpbell, lately of
Washington County, 1777-1870.
793
the Council of State in Virginia, now a resident of Alabama. I consider
him a young man of great merit for integrity, strength and correctness of
judgment and purity of political principles. In his welfare I take great in-
terest. Well knowing his merit, I have thought it proper to communicate
to you the sense I entertain of it, in the hope that it might be of some ser-
vice to him.
With great respect and esteem, I am, dear sir,
Yours,
JAMES MONROE.
Gov. Bibb, Huntsville.
Colonel Campbell did not remain long in Alabama, bvit returned to this
county, and in April, 1829, he was appointed Treasurer of the United
States by President Jackson, and discharged the du-
ties of that position with distinguished ability until
1839, when, finding himself opposed to many of the
policies of President Van Buren, he resigned his posi-
tion, returned to his home, and ever afterwards advo-
cated the policies of the Whig party.
COLONEL JAMES WHITE.
W The subject 'of this sketch was born at Carlisle,
Pennsylvania, February 22d, 1770, of Scotch-Irish pa-
Col Jno Campbell rents, and when quite young was a clerk in the con-
cern of Talbot, Jones & Co., of Baltimore, Maryland,
with whom he remained two or three years. This firm advanced him a small
stock of goods, with which he made his first trip to Southwest Virginia.
On the 4th of January, 1798, he married Miss Eliza Wilson, and settled in
Abingdon. All of his undertakings seemed to pros-
per, and at the date of his death, which occurred Oc-
tober 20th, 1838, his estate was estimated to be
worth more than two-thirds of a million dollars. He
was over six feet in height, of broad shoulders, deep
chest, and that symmetry of limb that indicates
agility and strength. He left a very large and dis-
tinguished family of children.
WILLIAM KING.
Col. James White.
Was born in Ireland in 1769, and came to America
at the age of fifteen years, landing at Newcastle,
Delaware, August 17th, 1784, and was for five years engaged with a mer-
chant at Philadelphia, his father, Thomas King, having previously to that
time settled in Fincastle county. William King remained in Philadelphia
until 1791, when he joined his father at Abingdon. (The home of Thomas
King was near to and a little east of the present residence of Dr. Wm.
White.) He received a legacy of 100 pounds from his grandmother, Eliza-
beth Pavis, apd \yith this capital he started as a pedler to m^'^f |xis fof';
794
Southwest Virginia^ 1746-1786.
tune. His success was rapid, and he established stores along his line of
travel and stocked them with such merchandise as best suited the people of
the country. In 1799 he married Mary Trigg, and
built the first brick house in Abingdon. (This house
is still standing on Court street opposite the court-
house.) He died in 1808. The crowning act of his
life was the devise of $10,000 to the Abingdon
Academy.
JOSEPH W. DAVIS.
Joseph W. Davis was born in what is now Smyth
county, Virginia, in 1798. Moved to Washington
county in 1846 from his former home at Pleasant
Hill. For several years he represented Smyth
county in the Legislature, and after the war was
State Senator for two years. He did much as a
magistrate, surveyor and civil engineer. Became manager of the -Emory
and Henry College boarding-house and farm in 1846, holding this position
for six years. Svibsequently engaged in merchandising, and finally in farm-
irg. He was a trustee of Emory and Henry College for about twenty years.
]\Iajor Davis was a man of deep and earnest convictions, and few men
have exerted a more positive influence on others.
Jos. W. Davis.
ROBERT W. HUGHES.
Judge Robert William Hughes was born in Powhatan coimty, Virginia,
June 16th, 1821, and was reared by Mrs. General Carrington, daughter of
General Francis Preston, of Abingdon. He was edu-
cated at Caldwell Institute, Greensboro, North Caro-
lina. Was tutor in Bingham High School, Hillsboro,
North Carolina, 1840-1843. Was a practising lawyer
in Richmond 1843-1853. WaiS editor of the Richmond
Examiner 1850-1857, and joint editor of that paper
from May, 1861, to April, 1865. Upon the close of the
war he aligned himself with the Republican party,
and edited first the Richmond Republic and after-
wards the Richmond Journal. In 1873 he was the Re-
publican candidate for Governor of Virginia, and in
January, 1874, he was by President Grant commis-
sioned United States District Judge for the Eastern
District of Virginia, in which position he served with
marked ability and distinction till February 22d, 1898, when, owing to his
advanced age, he tendered his resignation. On June 4th, 1850, at the Gov-
ernor's Mansion, in Richmond, he married Miss Eliza M. Johnston, daughter
of Hon. Chas. C. Johnston and Eliza Mary Preston, niece of General Jos. E.
Johnston. For many years he occupied as a summer home his fine
estate, about three miles southeast of Abingdon. He was the author of
biographies of General Floyd and General Joseph E. Johnston, published in
"Lee and His Lieutenants," 1867; a volume entitled "The American Dol-
Robt. W. Hughes.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
,795
lar," 1885, and of five volumes of United States Circuit and District Court
reports, entitled "Hughes' Reports, 1879-1885." In the year 1866 Judge
Hughes fought a duel with Wm. E. Cameron, afterwards Governor of Vir-
ginia, which resulted in Cameron's receiving a broken rib at the first fire.
He died December 10th, 1901. His remains were interred in Sinking Spring
Cemetery.
REV. LEWIS F. COSBY.
Rev. Lewis F. Cosby, D. D., was the son of Dabney Cosby, deceased, of
Staunton, Virginia. Was born the 15th day of January, 1807, and de-
parted this life the 6th day of July, 1883, in Abingdon. At the age of
eleven years he was converted, and some years afterwards became a minister
of the gospel in the Methodist Protestant church,
serving many charges in Eastern Virginia. He
came to Abingdon and assumed charge of the
church here. During a revival in said church a
very accomplished young lady (Miss Jane Eliza
TJekem) professed religion, and on the 13th day of
January, 1833, she became the wife of the young
preacher, the ceremony being performed by the
Rev. David R. Preston, of the Presbyterian church.
To this union seven children were born, four of
whom are yet living. After this Dr. Cosby re-
turned to Eastern Virginia, but in the year 1844,
with his family, removed to Washington county,
and settled at "Oakland," where he farmed success-
fulljr and preached in Abingdon and often in the surrounding country. Mrs.
Cosby departed this life June 13th, 1853. He was married the second time,
his last wife being Mrs. Elizabeth Montgomery, who survived him a few
years. Dr. Cosby was noted for his kindliness of heart, his generosity to tbe
poor and suffering, and for the purity of his life. He was a fluent speaker,
and had a voice in song that was unexcelled. He lived honored and re
spected by all. He took great interest in public affairs, and gave much of
his time and talents for tlie good of the public. His dust lies in Sinking
Spring Cemetery.
Rev Lewis F. Cosby.
roe Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
APPENDIX.
JOURNAL OF DOCTOR THOMAS WALKER—
1749-'50.
Having on the 12th of December last been employed for a certain con-
sideration to go to the westward in order to discoA^er a proper place for a
settlement, I left my home on the 6th day of March, at 10 o'clock,
1749-'50, in company with Ambrose Powell, William Tomlinson, Colby
Chew, Henry Lawless & John Hughes. Each man had a horse and we
had two to carry the baggage. I lodged this night at Col. Joshua Fry's,
in the Albemarle, which county includes the Chief of the head Branches of
James River on the east side of the Blue Ridge.
March 7th. We set off about 8, but the day proving wet, we only went
to Thomas Joplin's on Roekfish. This is a pretty River, which might at a
small expense be made fit for transporting Tobacco; but it has lately
been stopped by a Mill Dam near the Mouth to the Prejudice of the upper
inhabitants who would at their own expense clear and make it navigable,
were they permitted.
March 8th. We left Joplin's earlj\ It began to rain about Noon. I left
mj' people at Thomas Jones's and went to the Reverend Mr. Robert Rose's
on Tye River. This is about the size of Roekfish, as yet open, but how
long the Avarice of Millers will permit it to be so, I know not. At pres-
ent the Inhabitants enjoy plenty of Fine fish, as Shad in their Season,
Carp, Rocks, Fat-Backs which I suppose to be Tench, Perch, Mullets, etc.
March 9th. As the weather continues unlikely, I moved only to Baylor
Walker's quarters.
March 10th. The weather is still cloudy, and leaving my people at the
Quarter, I rode to Mr. John HarA'ies', where I dined and returned to the
quarter in the evening.
nth. The Sabbath.
March TZth. We crossed the Fluvanna and lodged at Thomas Hunt's.
13th. We went early to William Calloway's and supplied ourselves with
Rum, Thread, and other necessaries & from thence took the main wagon
Road leading to Wood's or the New River. It is not well cleared or beaten
yet, but will be a very good one with proper management. This night
we lodged in Adam Beard's low grounds. Beard is an ignorant, impudent,
brutish fellow, and would have taken us up, had it not been for a reason
easilj'^ to be suggested.
We went from Beard's to Nicholas Welche's, where we bought corn for
our horses, and had some Victual dressed for Breakfast, afterwards we
prossed the jPlue Ridge. The ascent and despent is so easy that a Strangef
Washington County, 1777-1870. 797
would not know when he crossed the Ridge. It began to rain about Noon
and continued until night. We lodged at William Armstrong's. Corn
is very scarce in these parts.
Maroh 15th. We went to the Great Lick* on a Branch of the Staunton
& bought corn of Michael Campbell for our Horses. This Lick has been
one of the best places for Game in these parts and would have been of
much greater advantage to the Inhabitants than it has been if the Hunters
had not killed the Buffaloes for diversion, and the Elks and Deer for their
.skins.
Tliis afternoon we got to the Staunton where the Houses of the Inhabi-
tants had been carried off with their grain and Fences by the Fresh last
Summer, and Lodged at James Robinson's, the only place I could hear of
where they had Corn to spare, notwithstanding the land is such that an
industrious man might make 100 barrels a share in a seasonable year.
March 16th. We kept up the Staunton to \Mlliam Englishe'is. He lives
on a small branch, and was not much hurt by the Fresh. He has a Mill,
which is the furthest back except one lately built by the Sect of people,
who call themselves of the Brotherhood of the Euphrates, (17th) and are
commonly called the Duncards, who are the upper inhabitants of the New
River, which is about 400 yards wide at this place. They live on the west
side and we were obliged to swim oiu- Horses over. The Duncards are an
old set of people who make it a matter of religion not to shave their
Beards, ly on beds, or eat Flesh, though at present, in the last they trans-
gress, being constrained to it, as they say, by want of a sufficiency of
Grain and Roots, they having not long been seated here. I doubt the
plenty and deliciousness of the Venison & Turkeys has contributed not
a little to this. The unmarried have no private property, but live on a
Common Stock. They don't baptize either Young or Old, they keep their
Sabbath on Saturday, & hold that all men shall be happy hereafter, but
must first pass througn punishment according to their Sins. They are
very hospitable.
March 18. The Sabbath.
19th. We could not find oiu- Horses and spent the day in looking for
them. In the evening we found their track.
20th. We went very early to the track of our Horses & after following
them six or seven miles, we found them all together. We returned to the
Duncards about ten o'clock, and having purchased half a bushel of meal
and as much small Hominy we set off and Lodged on a small Run be-
tween Peak Creek and Reedy Creek.
March 21st. We got to Reedy Creek and Camped near James McCall'sy
I went to his House and Lodged and bought what Bacon I wanted.
22nd. I returned to my People early. We got to a large Spring about
five miles below Davis's Bottom on Holston's River and Camped.
23rd. We kept down Holston's River about four miles and Camped; and
then Mr. Powell and I went to look for Samuel Stalnaker, who I hfvd be«°>i
•Now Roanoke.
f Now He^X Mea^dOWS.
798 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6.
iufonncd was just iiiovod out to settle. We found his Camp, and returned
to our own in the Evening.
24th. We went to Stalnaker's, helped him to raise his house and Camped
about a quarter of a mile below him. In April 1748, I met the above
mentioned Stalnaker between the Reedy Creek Settlement and Holston
River, on his way to the Cherokee Indians, and expected him to pilot me
as far as he knew but his affairs would not permit him to go with me.
March 25 th. The Sabbath. Grass is plenty in the low grounds.
2Gth. We left the Inhabitants, and kept nigh West to a large Spring on
a Branch of the North fork of Holston. Thunder, Lightening, and Rain
before Daj'.
27th. It began to Snow on the morning and continued till Noon. The
Land is very hilly from West to North. Some Snow lies on the tops of
the mountains N. W. from us.
28th. We traveled to the lower end of Giant's Ditch on Reedy Creek.
29th. Our Dogs were very uneasie most of the Night.
30th. We kept down Reedy Creek, and discover'd the tracks of about
20 Indians, that had gone up the Creek between the time we Camped last
Night, and set off this INIorning. We suppose they made our Dogs so rest-
less last Night. We Camped on Reedy Creek.
March 30th. We caught two young Buffaloes one of which we killed,
and having cut and marked the other we turn'd him out.
31st. We kept down Reedy Creek to Holston where we measured an
Elm 25 feet round 3 feet from the Ground. We saw young Sheldrakes, we
Avcnt down the River to the North Fork and up the North Fork about a
quarter of a mile to a Ford and then crossed it. In the Fork between Hol-
ston's and the North River, are five Indian Houses built with loggs and
covered with Bark, and there were abundance of Bones, some whole Pots
and Pans, some broken and many pieces of mats and Cloth. On the West
Side of the North River, is four Indian Houses such as before mentioned,
we went four miles Below the North River and Camped on the Bank of
Holston's, opposite to a large Indian Fort.
April ye 1st. The Sabbath. We saw Perch, Mullets, and Carp in plenty,
and caught one of the large Sort of Cat Fish. I marked my Name, the
day of the Month, and date of the year on several Beech Trees.
2nd. We left Holston & travelled through small Hills till about Noon,
when one of our Horses being choaked by eating Reeds too greedily, we
stopped, having travelled seven miies.
3d. Our horse being recovei-'d, we travelled to the Rocky Ridge. I went
up to the top to look for a Pass, but found it so Rocky that I concluded
not to attempt it there. This Ridge may be known by Sight at a distance.
To the Eastward are many small Mountains, and a Buffalo Road between
them and the Ridge. The growth is Pine on the Top and the Rocks look,
white at a distance. We went Seven miles this day.
4th. Wo kept under the Rocky Ridge crossing several small Branches
to the Head of Holly Creek. We saw many small Licks and plenty of
Deer.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 799
April 5th. We went down Holly Creek. There is much Holly in the
Low Grounds & some Laurel and Ivy. About 3 in the afternoon, the Ridge
appeared less stony and we passed it and Camped on a small Branch
about a mile from the top. My riding Horse choaked himself this Even-
ing and I drenched him with water to wash down the Reeds, and it an-
swered the End.
6th. It proving wet we did not move.
7th. We rode 8 miles over broken Land. It snowed most of the day.
In the Evening our dogs caught a large He Bear, which before Ave could
come up to shoot him had wounded a dog of mine, so that he could not
Travel, and we carried him on Horseback, till he recovered.
8th. The Sabbath. Still snow.
9th. We travelled to a river, which I suppose to be that which the
hunters Call Clinche's River, from one Clinch a Hunter, who first found it.
We marked several Beeches on the East side. We could not find a ford
Shallow eneugh to cany om- Baggage over on our horses. Ambrose Powell
Forded over on one horse, and we ckove the others after him. We then
made a Raft and carried over one Load of Baggage, but when the Raft
was brought back it was so heavy that it would not carry anything more
dry.
April 10th. We waded and carried the remainder of our Baggage on our
shoulders at two turns over the River, which is about one hundred and
thirty yards wide. We went on about five miles and Camped on a small
Branch.
April 11th. Having travelled 5 miles to and over a High Mountain, wo
came to Tiu-key Creek, which we kept down 4 miles. It lies between two
Ridges of Mountains, that to the Eastward being the highest.
12th. We kept down the Creek 2 miles further, where it meets with a
large Branch coming from the South West, and thence runs through the
East Ridge making a very good Paiss; and a large Buffalo Road goes
from that Fork to the Creek over the West Ridge, which we took and
found the ascent and descent tolerably easie. From this Mountain we
rode four miles to Beargrass River. Small Cedar Trees are very plenty
on the flat ground nigh the River, and some Barberry trees on the East
side of the River. On the Banks is some Beargrass. We kept up the
River tw^o miles. I found some Small pieces of Coal and a great plenty of
very good yellow Flint. The water is the most transparent I ever saw.
It is about 70 yds. wide.
April 13th. We went four miles to a large Creek, which we called Cedar
Ci'eek, being a Branch of Bear Grass, and from thence Six miles to Cave
Gap, the land being level. On the North side of the Gap is a large Spring,
which falls very fast, and just above the Spring is a small Entrance to a
large Cave, which the Spring runs through, and there is a constant
Stream of Cool air issuing out. The Spring is sufficient to turn a Mill.
Just at the foot of the Hill is a Laurel Thicket, and the Spring Water
runs through it. On the South side is a plain Indian Road. On the top
of the Ridge are Laurel Trees marked with Crosses, others blazed and
800 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf-6-1786.
several Figures on them. As I went down on the other Side, I soon came
to some Laurel in the head of a Branch. A Beech stands on the left hand
on which I cut my name. This Gap may be seen at a considerable dis-
tance, and there is no other that I know of, except one about two miles
to the Nortli of it, which docs not appear to be so low as the other. The
JMountain on the North Side of the Gap is very Steep and Rocky, but on
the South Side it is not so. We called it Steep Eidge. At the foot of the
hill on tlio North West Side we came to a Branch, that made a great deal
of llat Land. W« kept down it 2 miles, Several other Branches coming in
to make it a large Greek, and we called it Flat Creek. We camped on the
Bank where we found very good Coal. I did not See any Lime Stone be-
yond this Ridge. We rode 13 miles this day.
April 14th. We kept down the Creek .5 miles Chiefly along the Indian
Road.
15th. Easter Sunday. Being in bad grounds for our Horses we moved
7 miles along the Indian Road, to Clover Creek. Clover and Hop Vines
are plenty here.
April 10th. Rai(n). I made a pair of Indian Shoes, those I brought out
being bad.
17th. Still rain. I went down the Creek a hunting and found that it
went into a River al;out a mile below our Camp. This, which is Flat
Creek and some .others joined, I called Cumberland River.
18th. Still Cloudy. We kept down tlie Creek to the River along the In-
dian Road to wlitie it crussLH. Indians lived about this Ford Some years
ago. We kept on down the South Side. After liding 5 miles from our
Camp, we left the River, it being very crooked. In riding ,3 miles we camr-
on it again. It is ;ib(iut GO rr 70 yards wide. We rode 8 (?) miles this
day.
19th. We left the River but in four miles we came on it again at the
Mouth of Licking Creek, wliich we went up and down another. In the
Fork of Licking Creek is a Lick much used by Buffaloes and many large
Roads lead to it. This afternoon Ambrose Powell was bit by a Bear in
his Knee. We rode 7 miles this day.
20th. We kept down the Creek 2 miles to the River again. It appears
not any wider here than at the mouth of Clover Creek, but much deeper.
I thought it proper to cross the River and began a bark Canoe.
April 21.st. We finished the Canoe and tryed her. About noon it began
to thunder, lighten, hail and rain prodigiously and continued about 2 hours.
22nd. The Sabbath. One of the horses was found unable to walk this
morning. I then propos'd that with 2 of the Company I would proceed,
and the other three should Continue here till our return, which was agreed
to and Lots were drawn to determine who should go, they all being de-
sirous of it. Ambrose Powell and Colby Chew were the fortunate Persons.
2.3rd. Having carried our Baggage over in the bark Canoe and Swum our
horses, we all crossed the River. Then Ambrose Powell, Colby Chew and
I departed. Leaving the others to provide and salt some Bear, build an
house, and plant some Peach Stones and Corn. We travelled about 12
Washington County, 1777-1870. 801
miles and encamped on Crooked Creek. The mountains are very siuall
hereabouts and here is a gi'eat deal of flat Land. We got through the
Coal to-day.
April 24th. We kept on Westerly 18 miles, got Clear of the mountains
and found the Land poor and the woods very Thick beyond them, and
Laurel & Ivy in and near the Branches. Our Horses suffered very much
here for want of food. This day we Came on the fresh Track of 7 or 8
Indians, but could not overtake them.
25th. We kept on West 5 miles, the Land continuing much the Same, the
Laurel rather growing worse, a)id the food scarcer. I got up a tree on a
Ridge and saw the Growth of the Land much the same as Far as my Sight
could reach. I then concluded to return to the rest of my Company. I
kept on my track 1 mile then tui'n'd Southerly & went to Cumberland
Kiver at the mouth of a water Course, that I named Rocky Creek.
26th. The River is 150 yards wide and appears to be navigable from this
place almost to the mouth of Clover Creek. Rocky Creek runs within 40
yards of the River Bank then turns off, and runs up the River, surround-
ing about 25 acres of Land before it falls into the River. The Banks of
the River and Creek are a sufficient Fence almost all the way. On the
Lower Side of the mouth of the Creek is an Ash marked T. W., a Red
Oak A. P., a white Hickory C. C, besides several Trees blazed Several
ways with 3 Chops over each blaze. We went up the North Side of the
River 8 miles, and Camped on a Small Branch. A Bear Broke one of my
Dogs forelegs.
April 27th. We crossed Indian Creek and went down Meadow Creek to
the River. There Comes in another from the Southward as big as this
we are on. Below the mouth of this Creek and above the mouth are the
remains of Several Indian Cabins and amongst them a round Hill made
by Art about 20 feet high and 60 over the Top. We went up the River, and
Camped on the Bank.
28th. We kept up the River to our Company whom we found all well,
but the lame Horse was as bad as we left him, and another had been bit
in the Nose by a Snake. I rub'd the wounds with Bear's oil, and gave him
a drench of the same and another of the decoction of Rattle Snake root
some time after. The People I left had built a House 12 by 8, cleared and
broke up some ground & planted Corn and Peach Stones. They also
had killed several Bears and cured the meat. This day Colby Chew and
his Horse fell down the Bank. I bled and gave him Volatile drops, & he
soon recovered.
April 29th. The Sabbath. The bitten Horse is better. 3 quarters of
a mile below the House is a Pond in the Low Ground of the River, a
Quarter of a naile in Length and 200 yds. wide much frequented by Fowl.
30th. I blazed a way from our House to the River. On the other side
of the River is a large Elm cut down and barked about 20 feet and an-
other standing just by it with the bark cut around at the root and about
15 feet above. About 200 yards below this is a white Hickory Barked
about 15 feet. The depth of water here, \\hen the lowest that I have seen
803 Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-J786.
it, is about 7 or 8 feet, the Bottom of the River Sandy, ye Banks very
high, & the Current very slow. The bitten Horse being much mended,
we set off and left the lame one. He is white, branded on the near But-
tock with a swivil Stirrup Iron, and is old. We left the River and having
Crossed Several Hills and Branches, Camped in a Valley North from the
House.
May 1st. Another Horse being bit, I applyed Bear's Oil as before men-
tioned. We got to Powell's River in the afternoon and went down it
along an Indian Road, much frequented, to the mouth of a Creek on the
West side of the River, where we camped. The Indian Road goes up the
Creek, and I think it is that Which goes through Cave Gap.
2nd. We kept down the River. At the mouth of a Creek that oomes
in on the East side is a Lick, and I believe there was a hundred Buffaloes
at it. About 2 o'clock we had a Shower of rain. We camped on the River,
which is very crooked.
May 3rd. We crossed a narrow Neck of Land, came on the River again
and kept down it to an Indian Camp, that had been built this Spring, and
in it we took up our Quarters. It began to rain about Noon and continued
until Night.
4th. We crossed a nanow Neck of Land and came on the River again,
which we kept down till it turn'd to the Westward, we then left it, and
went up a Creek, which we Called Colby's Creek. The River is about 50
yards over where we left it.
5th. We got to Tomlison's River, which is about the size of Powell's
River, and I cut my name on a Beech, that stands on the North Side of
the River. Here is plenty of Coal in the South Bank opposite to our
Camp.
Gth. Tlie Sabbath. I saw Goslings, which shows that Wild Geese stay
here all the year. Ambrose Powell had the misfortune to sprain his well
knee.
7th. We went down Tomlison's River the Land being very broken and
our way embarrassed by trees, that had been blown down about 2 years
ago.
May 8th. We went up a Creek on the North Side of the River.
9tR. We got to Lawlesse's River which is much like the others. The
Mountains here are very Steep and on Some of them there is Laurel and
Ivy. The tops of the Mountains are very Rocky and some part of the
Rocks seem to be composed of Shells, Nuts and many other Subst>ance3
petrified and cemented together with a kind of Flint. We left the River
and after travelling some Miles we got among Trees that had been blown
down about 2 years, and were obliged to go down a Creek to the River
again, the Small Branches and Mountains being impassable.
10th. We Staid on the River, and dressed an Elk skin to make Indian
Shoes — most of ours being quite worn out.
11th. We left the River, found the Mountains very bad, and got to a
Rock by the side of a Creek sufficient to shelter 200 men from Rain.
Washmgton Count y, 1777-1S70. 803
Finding it so convenient, we concluded to stay and put our Elk skin in
order for shoes and make them.
12th. Under the Rock is a Soft Kind of Stone almost like Alum in
ta.ste; below it a Layer of Coal about 12 inches thick and white Clay under
that. I called the Run Alum Creek. I have observed several mornings
past, that the Trees begin to drip just before day & continue dripping
till about Sun rise, as if it rain'd slowly. We had some rain this day.
13th. The Sabbath.
14th. AVhen our Elk Skin was prepared we had lost every Awl that we
had brought out, and I made one with the Shank of an old Fishing hook,
the other People made two of Horse Shoe Nailes, and with these we made
our Shoes or Moccosons. We wrote several of our Names with Coal under
the Rock, & I wrote our names, the time of ovu' comeing and leaving this
place on paper and stuck it m to the Rock with Mortar, and then set off.
We Crossed Hughes's River and Lay on a large Branch of it. There is no
dew this morning but a shower of Rain about 6 oclock. The River is
about 50 yards wide.
May 15th. Laurel and Ivy increase upon us as we go up the Branch.
About noon it began to rain & we took up our Quarters in a Valley be-
tween very Steep Hills.
16th. We crossed Several Ridges and Branches. About two in the after-
noon, I was taken with a Violent Pain in my Hip.
17th. Laurel and Ivj are very plentiful and the Hills still very steep.
The Woods have been burnt some years past, and are now very thick, the
Timber being almost all kill'd. We Camped on a Branch of Naked Creek.
The pain in my Hip is something asswaged.
18th. We went up ISIaked Creek to the head and had a plain Buffalo
Road most of the way. From thence we proceeded down Wolf Creek and
on it we Camped.
19th. We kept down ye Creek to Hunting Creek, which we crossed and
left. It rained most of the afternoon.
May 20th. The Sabbath. It began to Rain about Noon and continued
till next day.
21st. Left off raining about 8. We crossed several Ridges and Small
Branches & Camped on a Branch of Hunting Creek. In the Evening it
rained very hard.
22nd. We went down the Branch to Hunting Creek & kept it to Milley's
River.
23rd. We attempted to go down the River but could not. We then
Crossed Hunting Creek and attempted to go up the River but could not.
It being veiy deep we began a Bark Canoe. The River is about 90 or lOO'
yards wide. I blazed several Trees in the Fork and marked T. W. on a.
Sycamore Tree 40 feet around. It has a large Hole on the N: W: side;
about 20 feet from the Giound and is divided into 3 Branches just by the
hole, and it stands about 80 yards above the mouth of Hvmting Creek.
May 24th. We finished the Canoe and crossed the River about noon, and
I marked a Sycamore 30 feet round and several Beeches on the North side
804 Southwest yirginia, 1746-1786.
of the Kivcr opposite to the nioulh of the Creek. Game is very scarce
hereabouts.
25th. It began to rain before day and continued till about noon. We
travelled about 4 miles on a Ridge and Camped on a small Branch.
26tli.We kept down the Branch almost to the River, and up a Creek, and
then along a Ridge till our Dogs roused a large Buck Elk, Which we fol-
lowed down to a Creek. He killed Ambrose Powell's Dog in the Chase, and
we named the Run Tumbler's Creek, the Dog being of that Name.
27th. The Sabbath.
28th. Cloudy. We could not get our Horses till almost Night, when we
went down the Branch. We lay on to the main Creek, and turn'd up it.
May 29th. We proceeded up the Creek 7 miles, and then took a North
Branch & went up it five miles and then encamped on it.
30th. We went to the head of the Branch we lay on 12 miles. A shower
of Rain fell this day. The Woods are burnt fresh about here and are the
only fresh burnt Woods we have seen these Six Weeks.
31st. We crossed 2 Mountains and Camped just by a Wolf's Den. They
were very impudent and after they had been twice shot at, they kept
howling about the Camp. It rained till Noon this day.
June ye 1st. We found the Wolf's Den and caught 4 of the young ones.
It rained this morning. We went up a Creek, crossed a mountain and
went through a Gap, and then, camped on the head of A Branch.
2nd. We went down the Branch to a River 70 yards wide, which I called
Frederick's River. We kept up it a half a mile to a Ford, where we crossed
and proceeded upon the North Side 3 miles. It rained most of the after-
noon. Elks are very plenty on this River.
June 3rd. Whit-Sunday. It rained most of the day.
4th. I blazed several trees four ways on the outside of the low Grounds
by a Bufl'alo Road, and marked my Name on several Beech Trees. Also
I marked some by the River side just below a "mossing" place with an
Island in it. We left the River about 10 o'clock & got to Falling Creek,
and went up it till 5 in the afternoon, when a very black Cloud appear-
ing, we turn'd out our Horses, got tent Poles up, and were just stretching
a Tent, when it began to rain and hail, and was succeeded by a violent
Wind which Blew down our Tent & a great many Trees about it, several
large ones within 30 yds. of the Tent. We all left the place in confusion
and ran diiferent ways for shelter. After the Storm was over, we met at
the Tent, and found all safe.
5th. There was a violent Shower of Rain before day. This morning
we went up the Creek about 3 miles, and then were obliged to leave it,
the Timber being so blown down that we could not get through. After we
left the Creek we kept on a Ridge 4 miles, then turned down to the head
of a Branch, and it began to rain and continued raining very hard till
Night.
June 6th. We went down the Branch till it became a large Creek. It
runs very Swift, falling more than any of the Branches we have been on
of late. I called it Rapid Creek. After we had gone 8 miles we could not
Washington County, 1777-1870. 805
ford, and we Camped in the low Ground. There is great sign of Indians on
this Creek.
7th. The Creek being fordable, we Crossed it & kept down 12 miles to a
River about 100 yards over, which we called Louisa River. The Creek is
abodt 30 yards wide, & part of ye Reiver breaks into ye Creek — making
an Island on which we Camped.
8th. The River i.s so deep we cannot ford it and as it is falling we con-
cluded to stay and liunt. In the afternoon, ]\Ir. Powell and my Self was a
hunting about a mile & a half from the Camp, and heard a gun just below
us on the other side of the River, and as none of our People could cross,
I was in hopes of getting some direction from the Person, but could not
find him.
June 9th. We crossed the River & went down it to the mouth of a Creek
<ic up the Creek to the head and over a Ridge into a Steep Valley and
Camped.
10th. Trinity Sunday. Being in very bad ground for our Horses, we
concluded to move. We were very much hindered by the Trees, that were
blown down on Monday last. We Camped on a Small Branch.
11th. It rained violently in the Latter part of the Night & till 9 o'Clock.
The Branch is impassable at present. We lost a Tomahawk and a Cann
by the Flood.
12th. The Water being low we went down the Branch to a large Creek,
& up the Creek. Many of the trees in the Branches are Wash'd up by
the Roots and others barked by the old trees, that went down ye Stream.
The Roots in the Bottom of the Runs are Barked by the Stones.
June 13th. We are very much hindered by the Gust & a shower of Rain
about Noon. Game is very scarce here, and the mountains very bad, the
tops of the Ridges being so covered with Ivy and the sides so steep and
stony that we were obliged to cut our way through with our Tomahawks.
14th. The Woods are still bad and Game scarce. It rained to-day about
Noon & we Camped on the top of A Ridge.
15th-16tli. We got on a large Creek where Turkey are plenty and some
Elks. We went a hunting & killed 3 Turkeys. Hunted & killed 3 Bears
& some Turkeys.
17th. The Sabbath. We killed a large Buck Elk.
18th. Having prepared a good stock of Meat, we left the Creek cro.ss-
ing several Branches and Ridges. The \^'oods still continuing bad the
weather hot & our Horses so far spent, that we are all obliged to walk.
June 19th. We got to Laurel Creek early this morning, and met so im-
pudent a Bull Buffalo that we were obliged to shoot him, or he would
have been amongst us. We then went up the Creek six miles, thence up a
North Branch of it to the Head, and attempted to cross a mountain, but
it proved so high and difficult, that we were obliged to Camp on the side
of it. This Ridge is nigh the eastern edge of the Coal Land.
20th. We got to the top of the Mountain and Could discover a flat to
the South & South East. We went down from the Ridge to a Branch and
down the Branch to Laurel Ci-eek not far from where we left it yester-
g(jG Southwest Virginia, 17pj-17S6.
day & Camped. My riding Horse was bit by a Snake this day, and hav-
ing no Bear's Oil 1 'nib'd the phice with, a piece of fat meat, which had the
desired effect.
21st. We found the Level Nigh the Creek so Full of Laurel that we wer«
obliged to go up a Small Branch, and from the head of that to the Creek
a^ain, and found it good travelling a Small distance from the Creek. We
Camped on the Creek. Deer are very scarce on the Coal Land. I have
seen but 4 since the 30th of April.
June 22nd. We kept up to the head of the Creek, and the Land l>eing
Leveller than we have lately seen, and here are some large Savanna's.
:Many of the Branches are full of Laurel and Ivy. Deer and Bears are
plenty.
23rd. Land continues level with Laurel and Ivy & we got to a large
Creek with very high & steep Banks full of Rocks which I called Clifty
Creek, the Rocks are 100 feet perpendicular in some Places.
24th. The Sabbath.
25th. We Crossed Clifty Creek. Here is a little Coal and the Land still
flat.
26th. We crossed a Creek that we called Dismal Creek, the Banks being
the worst and the Laurel the thickest I have seen. The Land is Moun-
tainous on the East Side of the Dismal Creek, and the Laurels end in a
few miles. We Camped on a Small Branch.
June 27th. Tlie Land is very high & we crossed several Ridges and
camped on a small Branch. It rained about Noon and continued till the
next day.
2Sth. It continued raining till Noon, and we set off as soon as it ceased
and went down the Branch we lay on to the New River just below the
mouth of Green Bryer. Powell, Tomlison and myself stripped, and went
into the New River to try if we could wade over at any place. After
some time having found a place we returned to the others and took such
things as would take damage by water on our Shoulders, and waded over
Leading our Horses. The bottom is very uneven, the Rocks very slippery
and the Current very Strong most of the way. We Camped in the Low
Ground opposite to the mouth of Green Bryer.
29th. We kept up Green Bryer. It being a wet day we went only 2
miles, and Camped on the North Side.
June 30th. We went 7 miles up the River, which is very crooked.
July ye 1st. The Sabbath. Our Salt being almost spent We travelled 10
miles, sometimes on the River and at other times some distance from it.
2nd. We kept up the River the chief part of the day and we travelled
about 10 miles.
3rd. We went up the River 10 miles to-day.
4th. We went up the River 10 miles through very bad Woods.
5th. The way growing worse we travelled 9 miles only.
6th. We left the River. The low grounds on it are of very little Value,
but on the Branches are very good, and there is a great deal of it, and
the high land is very good in many places. We got on a large Creek called
Washington County, 1777-1870. 807
Anthony's Creek, which affords a great deal of Very good Land, and it is
chiefly bought. We kept up the creek 4 miles and Camped. This Creek took
its Name from an Indian, called John Anthony, that frequently hunts in
these Woods. There are some inhabitants on the Branches of Green Bryer,
but we missed their Plantations.
July 7th. W^e kept up the Creek, and about Noon 5 men overtook us and
inform'd us we were only 8 miles from the inhabitants on a Branch of
James River called Jackson's River. We exchanged some Tallow for Meal
and parted. We Camped on a Creek nigh the top of Alleghany Ridge,
which we named Ragged Creek.
8th. Having Shaved, Shifted, & made new Shoes, we left our useless
Raggs at ye Camp & got to Walker Johnston's about Noon. We moved
over to Robert Armstrong's in the Afternoon & staid there all Night.
The People here are very hospitable and would be better able to support
Travellers was it not for the great number of Indian Warriors, that fre-
quently take what they want from them, much to their prejudice.
July 9th. We went to the hot Springs and found Six Invalids there.
The Spring Water is very Clear & warmer than new Milk, and there is a
spring of cold Water within 20 feet of the Warm one. I left one of my
Company this day.
10th. Having a Path we rode 20 miles & lodged at Captain Jemyson's
lielow the Panther Gap. Two of my Company went to a Smith to get
their Horses Shod.
11th. Oiu- Way Mending, We travelled 30 miles to Augusta Court
House, where I found Mr. Andrew Johnston, the first of my acquaintance
1 had .seen since the 26th day of March.
12th. Mr. Johnston lent me a fresh Horse and sent my Horses to Mr.
David SteAvard's, who was so kind as to give them Pasturage. About
8 o'clock I set off leaving all my Company. It began to rain about 2 in
the Afternoon & I lodged at Capt. David Lewis's, about 34 miles from
Augusta Court House.
13th. I got home about Noon.
We killed on the Journey 13 Buffaloes, 8 Elks, 53 Bears, 20 Deer, 4
Wild Geese, about 150 Turkeys, besides small Game. We might have
killed three times as imich meat if we had wanted it.
808
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
First Lands Surveyed on the Waters of the Holston and
Clinch Rivers of which Any Record is Preserved.
SURVEYOR'S RECORD OF FINCASTLE COUNTY.
Sui-vcycd by John Floyd, Robert Doach, Bobert Preston and Francis Smith.
ACRES,
Mar. 15,16,74.
Wm. Edmiston, . . .
.1000
April IG,
1774.
John Campbell, . . .
. 200
Feb. 19,
1774.
Benj. Logan,
. 250
15,
1774.
Lewis Pitts,
. 154
22,
1774.
Benj. Hawkins, . . .
. 365
21,
1774.
Nathaniel Davis, . .
. 118
23,
1774.
Elias Moore,
. 400
15,
1774.
Anthony Herd, ....
. 210
21,
1774.
John Davis,
. 275
Jan. 22,
1774.
Daniel McCormick, .
. 330
24,
1774.
Colin McKinney, . .
. 103
24,
1774,
Benj. Maiden,
. 90
24,
1774.
James Bryan,
. 475
24,
1774,
Andrew Kincannon,
. 200
24, 19, '74.
Francis Kincannon;.
. 33
24,
1774.
Joseph Lester, ....
. 153
18,
1774.
Alex. Wiley,
. 235
20,
17/4.
Robert Shannon, . .
. 258
21,
1774.
Robert Crow,
. 241
21,
1774.
Ed. Pharez,
. 115
24,
1774.
Wm. Lockhart, . . .
. 215
22,
1774.
John Wiley,
. 234
12,
1774.
Thomas Crow, . . . .
. 226
13,
1774.
David Phillips, . . .
. 155
21,
1774.
Edward Crow, . . . .
. 299
24,
1774.
Thos. McCulloch, . .
. 290
12,
1774.
James Cameron, . .
. 29
24,
1774.
Samuel Simpson, . .
. 140
22
1774.
Samuel McHenry, .
. 95
14,
1774.
John Boyd,
. 260
11,
1774.
Francis Delaney, . .
. 155
11,
1774.
John Kirk,
. 290
15,
1774.
George Adams, . . . .
. 535
Feb. 4,
, 1774.
Roger Topp,
. 400
and 1000 bet. M. & S. Forks
Holston.
Rich Valley, W. North Fork.
Beaver Creek.
North Fork.
Wolf Creek.
Beaver Creek, N. Fork,
on Middle Fork of Holston.
Rich Valley, North Fork.
Beaver Creek.
Middle Fork.
Cedar Creek.
Waters Noi-th Fork.
Waters Middle Fork.
Waters Middle Fork.
& 546 N. & M. Fork of Hols'n.
Middle Fork.
Middle Fork.
Bear Creek, M. Fork Holston.
Hungers Mother, Br'ch of M. F.
Waters Middle Fork.
Waters Middle Fork.
Waters Middle Fork.
Waters M. F., nr. bend thereof.
Waters Middle Fork.
Waters Middle Fork.
Waters of North Fork.
Holston.
Middle Fork.
Eleven-Mile Creek.
East side Middle Fork.
Waters Middle Fork.
Waters Middle Fork.
Holston.
Holston.
Washington County,' 1777-1870.
801)
5,
1774.
16,
1774.
5,
1774.
17,
1774.
24,
1774.
5,
1774.
4,
1774.
25,
1774.
27,
1774.
27,
1774.
12,
1774.
14,
1774.
25,
1774.
14,
1774.
5,
1774.
9,
1774.
10,
1774.
20,
1774.
13,
1774.
8,
17/4.
12,
1774.
9,
1774.
10,
1774.
12,
1774.
9,
1774.
12,
1774.
13,
1774.
20,
1774.
29,
1774.
27,
1774.
13,
1774.
19,
1774.
28,
1774.
10,
1774.
9,
1774.
9,
1774.
5,
1774.
8,
1774.
7,
1774.
11,
1774.
8,
1774.
17,
1774.
9,
1774.
16,
1774.
16,
1774.
15,
1774.
12,
1774.
ACRES,
John Bealer, 290
George Lester, 60
Alex. Laughlin, .... 395
Jonathan Wood, ... 160
Arthur Blackburn,.. 130
Daniel Miller, 340
Henry Turney, 340
George Clark, 380
Samuel Henry, .... 204
Wm. Montgomery,. . . 224
Robert Buchanan, . . 210
David Remey, 261
Arthur Gilbreath, . . 356
James Bishop, 351
John Parker, 322
Wm. Lewis, 176
Mitchell Borden, . . . 282
Abraham Stailey, .. 152
Jos. Cole, 221
Jos. Cole, 278
Martin Gash, 195
Henry Bowen, 426
Matthew Evans, ... 197
Matthew Bishop, ... 77
John Thomas, 404
Ihomas Baker, 328
John Kelly, 190
Shadrack Newton, . . 133
Nicholas Fain, 230
Wm. McGaughy, . . . 235
John Riky, 120
Jos. Snodgrass, .... 390
John Fain, 30
John Johnson, 230
David Meachin, .... 45
James Elliott, 560
Daniel Miller, 340
Tliomas Fugate, .... 140
Jo. Beattie, 226
Wm. Cox, 220
David Steele, 290
Ed. Bond, •320
Margaret Elliott, . . . 430
John Edmiston, . . . 345
Jameis Sproul, 220
Isaac Bledsoe, 300
John Cearnes, 108
Beaver Creek.
Middle Fork.
Sinking Creek.
Middle Fork.
Waters M. F.
Cedar Branch, W. Beaver C'k.
Waters of Holston.
M. F. Eleven-Mile Creek.
S. F. Fifteen-Mile Creek.
S. F. Fifteen-Mile Creek.
M. F. ,
Waters S. Fork.
Waters M. Fork.
Waters S. ForK.
Crab Orchard Cr., Br. Holston.
South Fork.
South Fork.
Middle Fork.
South Fork.
South Fork.
South Fork.
W. S. Fork of Holston.
W. S. Fork of Holston. -
S. F. of Holston.
W. S. F., Holston.
Reedy Hill Cr., S. F. Holston.
S. Branch Holston River.
N. Branch Holston River.
on Wolf Hill Cr., S. F. of Hol'n.
on Head Sugar Tree Draft.
Holston Sinking Creek.
W. M. F. Holston.
Wolf Hill Cr. Br., S. F. of Hoi.
Sinking Creek, Br. Holston.
Steel's Creek.
Waters of Holston.
Cedar Br., W. Beaver Creek.
Reedy Creek.
& 360 Waters of Holston.
Reedy Creek.
Br. Steele's Creek.
Beaver Creek.
Reedy Creek.
S. F. of Holston.
Rich Valley.
W. IN. F. of Holston.
W. Reedy Creek.
SIO
Southwest Virginia, 17 J/6-1786.
Feb.
10,
1774.
12,
1774.
16,
1774.
Mar.
15,
1774.
Feb.
16,
1774.
16,
1774.
1,
1774.
12,
1774.
17,
1774.
Jan.
20.
1774.
Feb.
17.
1774.
10.
1774.
17.
17/4.
11,
1774.
IS,
1774.
Feb.
10,
1774.
Jan.
28,
1774.
Feb.
11,
1774.
10,
1774.
21,
1774.
Jan.
21,
1774.
Feb.
16,
1774.
10,
1774.
9,
1774.
11,
1774.
18,
1774.
18,
1774.
20,
1774.
21,
1774.
Mar.
14,
1774.
Jan.
28,
1774.
Feb.
3,
1774.
19,
1774.
Jan.
28,
1774.
Feb.
12,
1774.
12.
1774.
10.
1774.
Mar.
21.
1774.
May
4.
1774.
Mar.
4,
1774.
31,
1774.
May
IT,
, 1774.
21,
1774.
4,
1774.
ACKES.
(Jeorge Steele, 95 Rich Valley.
Robert Snodgrass, . . 200 W. Reedy Creek.
Thomas Knight, ... 96 Rich Valley.
Moses Buchanan, .. 170 South Fork Holston. ~
Wm. Henderson, ... 160 Rich Valley, W. of N. Fork.
John Robinson, 180 Rich Valley, W. of N. Fork.
John Owen, 104 M. F. of Holston.
John Adair, 86 W. Reedy Creek.
Thomas Jones ..... 290 W. Beaver Creek.
David Snodgrass, . . 690 N. side of Holston.
Henry Grimes, .... 240 Beaver Creek.
Robert Steele, 386 Kincaid Cr., Br. of Holston.
Chris. Fiuikhouser,. . IGO W. Beaver Creek.
John Berry, 139 W. Wolf Hill Creek.
David Berry, 212 Beaver Creek.
Alex. Doran, 105 Head Cane Brake Sp'r Iron Mt.
James Steele, 342 Kincaid Creek.
Francis Davis, i 280 Wolf Creek.
John Donohue, .... 254 K. Creek.
-John Hollis, 162 W. of Holston.
Nath. Davis, ...... 115 Beaver Creek.
James Doran, 268 Wolf Creek.
Abraham Ellis, 82 Rich Vaiiey, \v. of X. Fork.
Francis Scott, 252 Waters of Holston.
Archibald McNeal, . 191 Jvincaid Creek.
George Maxwell, ... 113 W^aters of Holston.
Wm. Hughes, 220 Waters Beaver Creek.
Samuel Newell, .... 69 Waters Beaver Creek.
John Roark, 93 Waters Beaver Creek.
John Blackburn, ... 78 Waters Beaver Creek.
Samuel Edmiston, . . 200 W. M. Fork, north side.
Robert Gramall 340 Fifteen-Mile Creek, west side.
T. King & J. Sharp.. 130 North Fork, north side.
James Roark 63 Waters Beaver Creek.
Andrew Martin. ... 110 Fifteen-Mile Creek, ea.st side.
Wm. Elliott, 270 Waters Reedy Creek.
Wm. Anderson, . . • • 160 Waters Reedy Creek.
John Donohue, 330 Br. Holston River.
Anthonj' Bledsoe, . . . 740 Meeting House, Br. W. Holston.
Wm. Tiiompson, .... 195 S. Fork Clinch River.
John Wilson, 279 Rich Valley.
John Walker, v -. 94 Sinking Creek.
Wm. Robertson, . . . 617 Castle's Woods.
Henry Dickenson, ... 170 both sides Clinch River.
John Hays, 227 foot Brushy ]\it., both sides
Leatherwood Run, Waters of
Holston.
Washingtun Couriiy, 1777-1870.
811
Mar.
14,
1774.
14,
1774.
3,
1774.
April
3,
1774.
2
1774.
5,
1774.
Mar.
20,
1774.
April
5)
1774.
May
5.
1774.
4,
1774.
23,
1774.
Mar.
25,
1774.
4,
1774.
13,
1774.
21,
1774.
22,
1774.
26,
1774.
24,
1774.
24,
1774.
23,
1774.
April
5,
1774.
4.
1774.
Mar.
25.
1774.
April
5,
1774.
May
10,
1774.
15,
1774.
24.
1774.
20,
1774.
26,
1774.
26,
1774.
20,
1774.
April
5.
1774.
21,
1774.
7,
1774.
1,
1774.
5,
1774.
Mar.
.30,
1774.
20.
1774.
April
5,
1774.
Mar.
29,
1774.
May
26,
1774.
April
5,
1774.
3.
1774.
3,
1774.
May
31.
1774.
June
10.
1774.
Henry Smith,
Daniel Smith,
Philip Phillips,
Samuel Cowan, . . . .
Chris. Kilgore,
David Cowan,
John Carter,
Joseph Moore,
Samuel McAdams, . .
James King,
John Anderson, . . . .
John Blackmore, . . .
John Wilson,
James Wilson,
Fred. Fryley,
Abraham McClelland
Thomas Carter, . . . .
Samuel Ritchie, . . . .
Jas. Blackmore, . . . .
Lewis Green,
John Boles,
Samuel McAdams, . .
Isaac Crisman,
Matthias Mounts, . .
Matthias Mounts, . .
John Henry,
John Anderson, . . . .
Wm. Thompson, . . .
Archilas Dickenson,.
Humphr'y Dickenson
Arthur Campbell
James Burke, . .
James Moore, . .
John Crank, . . .
Patrick Porter,
John Smith, . . .
Rich. Staunton,
Deal Carter, . . .
Wm. Moore, . . .
tJ ohn Blackmore,
Henry Hamblin,
Wm. Trimble, .
David Guess, . .
David Wharton,
Aln-aham Crabtree
Thomas Porter,
ACRES.
464 S. Fork Clinch River.
673 Indian Cr., Waters CTch River.
120 N. side & an island in C. River.
254 both sides McKinney Run.
256 E. side Falling Creek.
264 Mill Creek.
92 N. W. side Clinch River._
334 S. Branch Clinch River. -
225 at end Morris' Knob.
132 S. F. Clinch River.
64 both sides Clinch River.
515 Stoney Cr., N. side Cl'ch River.
270 Rich Valley.
253 foot Brushy Mountain.
216 Clinch River, S. side.
343 Sinking Waters Clinch, S. side.
197 Clinch River, N. side. —
111 Clinch River, south side.
75 Clinch River, north side.
91 Clinch River, south side.
262 in Castle's Woods.
147 Clmch, K side South Fork.
225 Cove Creek.
243 Castle Run, west side.
305 S. Waters Clinch River.
167 Clinch, Waters South Fork.
95 both sides Clinch.
229 N. W. of South Fork.
310 Clinch, on W.
I, 310 north side Clinch River.
. 293 north side Clinch River.
96 Copper Creek.
. 92 Abb's Valley.
. 116 Copper Creek.
. 214 Falling Creek. W. side.
. 224 in Castlewoods.
. 73 Clinch, N. side.
. 96 Clinch, N. side. -
. 493 Clinch, S. side.
. 200 S. side bet. R'r Hills ii, C. Cr.
. 310 Clinch, N. side.
. 113 Clinch,. S. Waters.
. 434 Sinking Waters, S. side Clinch.
. 218 Clinch, S. side.
. 104 Holston, bet. Pawpaw Bottom
and Clay Lick.
. . 144 M. F. H., S. Brancn.
812
Southwest Virginia, 17J{.6-17S6.
June 11, 1774.
7,
1774.
9,
1774.
9,
1774.
8,
1774.
11,
1774.
Jlav
31,
1774.
June
8,
1774.
]SLi.v
30,
1774.
26,
1774.
27,
1774.
23,
1774.
June
11,
1774.
11,
1774.
May
26,
1774.
June
7,
1774.
May
26,
1774.
7,
1774.
June
8,
1774.
10,
1774.
]\Iay
30,
1774.
June
2,
1774.
1,
1774.
May
27,
1774.
27,
1774.
June
8,
1774.
1,
1774.
5.
1774.
7,
1774.
Mav
5,
1774.
June
5,
1774.
1,
1774.
2,
L774.
7,
1774.
May
28,
1774.
June
7
1774.
Jan.
4,
1775.
Dec.
2
1774.
3,
1774.
23,
1774.
23,
1774.
7,
1774.
15,
1774.
23,
1774.
2,
1774.
ACRES.
Elias Mackay, 124
Conrad Henniger, . . 37
Rich. Higgins, 119
Chas. Campbell, 285
James Fullen, 126
Rouse Potter, 151
Alex. Vance, 192
Joseph Drake, 326
John Fowler, 152
Arthur Neal, 44
James Crabtree, ... 373
Jeremiah Harrison,. . 412
Hellen Dungins, .... 354
Jonathan Dean, .... 60
Wm. Crabtree, 98
Rich. Humphreys, . . 404
Humberson Lyon, . . 343
Isaac Crabtree, 50
Aaron Horn, 261
Wm. Marl in, 151
Wm. Fowler, 375
Thomas Stern, 91
Fred Stern, 238
John Crabtree, 129
Nathan Richison, ... 122
Hanchrist Carlock,.. 126
Fred Stern, 176
John Hopton, 279
Jeremiah Barnet, . . . 259
Wm. Whitley, 142
Justice Reynolds, . . . 123
Conrad Carlock, .... 168
Samuel Scott, 94
Samuel White, 45
Abel Richison, 309
George Hyce, 205
Evan Shelby, 1000
John Carson, 130
Anthony Linder, .... 79
David Linder, 150
Jacob Mongle, 86
Nathan Reid, 63
James Davidson, ... 90
Fred. Gobble, 32
Job Coeliran, 145
S. Br. M. F. H\l Higgin's Mill
Run.
Middle Fork, N. side. .
Mill Creek.
S. B. of Mid. F. of Holston.
Carlock's Br. M. Fork.
S. Branch.
Beaver Creek.
Carlock's Br., Middle Foik.
Sinking Rock Br., N. F.
North Fork.
Beaver Creek.
Sinking Rock Br., Morth F.
Neils' Br., N. F. Head Spring.
South Fork.
North Fork.
M. F. Neil's Branch.
North Fork, both sides.
Cedar Branch, head of.
Middle Fork N. B.
Neil's Branch, Middle F.
Beaver Creek.
Branch of Lick Run.
Branch of Lick Run.
Incld. Head Spring, Elkhorn
Br., Waters of Holston.
N. F. Sinking Branch.
Mid. F. S. Br., Lick Run.
M. Fork Clapboard Cabin Br.
Neil Branch, Middle Fork.
Middle Fork.
Simpson Branch, Middle Fork.
Middle Fork S. Branch.
M. Fork Branch Lick Run.
Middle Fork Lick Run.
Middle Fork Dry Run.
N. Fork Beaver Creek.
Big Spring Branch Middle F.
Beaver Creek.
North Fork.
North Fork, Rich Valley."
North Fork.
North Fork.
Noj-th Fork.
Moccasin Creek, North F.
North Fork, north side.
Rich Valley, North F.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 813
1774. Rich. Lynem, 160 North Fork Rich Valley.
1774. 1 eter Anderison, .... 80 North Fork Rich Valley.
1774. Zach. Clemmons, ... 160 North Fork.
1774. Jonathan Wood, 185 North Fork Moccasin Creek.
1774. Thomas McNeil, ... 125 South Fork Mill Creek.
1774. George Baker, 82 Waters M. F. Holston.
1774. Michael Huffaker,... 100 Rich Vaiiey, North Fork.
1774. David Mongle, 90 North Fork.
1774. Robert Tate, 174 Moccasin Creek, North Fork.
1774. Isaac Newland, .... 175 North Fork.
1774. Abraham Newland,.. 175 Nortn Fork.
1774. John Robinson, 220 W. N. F.
1774. Wm. Huston, 535 MocKison Cr., Br. N. F. Hols'n.
1774. John Carmack, 470 Sinking Creek, Br. of Holston.
1774. Tliomas Sharp, 580 Sinking Creek, Br. of Holston.
1775. Isaac Baker, 450 Beaver Creek.
1774. Wm. Crabtree, 79 Rich Valley, N. F. Holston.
1774. Thomas Raflferty, ... 335 Mill Creek.
1774. Peter Lee, 230 Rich Valley, North Fork.
1775. Alex. Laughlin, 590 W. Sinking Cr., lucid, former
survey.
1774. Wm. Davidson, 325 N. side Holston River.
1774. James Craig, 480 Middle Fork.
1774. Wm. T. Livingston,. 470 North I'ork.
1774. Wm. Samples, 86 North Fork.
1774. John Jones, 219 Waters of South Fork.
1774. John Sevier, 65 North Fork.
1774. Wm. Pruitt, 300 South Fork.
1774. Wm. Williams, 280 North Fork.
1774. Rich. Moore, 390 Beaver Creek.
1774. Jesse Cain, 75 North l^ork.
John Fugate, 180 North Fork.
1774. Robert Carson, lii\j North Fork, Rich Valley.
1774. John Sevier, 200 North Fork.
1774. Jeremiah Hatfield, . . 140 North Fork Waters.
1774. John Frazier, 180 Mockison Creek.
1774. Francis Whitney, . . 220 Mill Creeic.
17/4. Rich. Brumley, .... 80 Branch North Fork.
1774. John Lovelace, 186 Rich Vaaey.
1774. Moses Buchanan, ... 87 N. side S. Fork Oi Holston.
1774. Moses Keewood, ... 18(7 Rich Valley.
1774. John Tate, 145 Mockison Creek.
1774. John Patterson, .... 145 Rich Valley.
1774. Wm. Blackburn, 220 Branch of Holston.
1774. Halbert MeClure, ... 208 N. side North F. Holston.
1774. Henry Pirtle, 142 Br. North Fork Holston.
1774. vieo. Hatfield, 120 W. North Fork of Holston,
1775. Heni^v Harkleroad,. . 114 Beaver Creek.
814
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Feb.
.Ian.
Feb.
,Ian.
Feb.
Jan.
Feb.
Dec.
June
Dec.
Feb.
Mar.
Feb.
Mar.
Feb.
ACRES.
12, 1774. Robert Patterson, .. 170
12, 1775. Cornelius Carmack,.. 100
4. 1774. George Riddle, 310
;51, 1774. James Phillips, 200
12, 1774. Robert Williams, ... 125
7, 1775. John Carmack, 97
15, 1774. Wm. Bates, 130
I, 1774. David Dryden, 160
7. 1774. Stephen Iveewood, . . 50
8, 1774. George Pirtle, 190
16, 1774. Kasper Mansker, . . . 190
3, 1774. Jonas Smith, 270
17, 1774. Robert Trimble, 220
8, 1775. Samuel Davis, 364
4, 1774. Nathaniel Davis, ... 115
14, 1776. George Peariis, 95
22, 1775. John Bradshaw, 335
31, 1775. Thomas Farley, 355
1, 1775. Wm. Allison, 150
27, 1775. David Campbell, ... 141
II, IVVo. John ivlorris, 131
28, 1775. John Vaught, 390
23, 1775. Thomas Worley, . . . 612
6, 1775. henry Wagoner, . . . 476
25, 1775. John Crow, 210
7, 1775. Chas. King 177
8, 1775. John Campbell, 156
1, 1775. Lewis Abel, 249
7, 1775. John Hays, 308
* 8, 1775. Arthur Campbell, .. 279
22, 1775. John Williams,
134
24, 1775. Jolm Jakes, 249
24, 1775. Hugh Johnson. 341
28, 1775. John Morrison, 271
23, 1775. Jonathan Dean, 203
23, 1775. Henry Vice, 329
28, 1775. Alex. Campbell, 173
27, 1775. David McCord, 218
27, 1775. Robert Preston, 154
June 16, 1774. Robert Buchanan, .. 722
April — , 1774. Wm. Ellis, 200
Mar. 10, 1774. Jos. Cole, Jr., 215
?Now Marion, Va.
Reedy Creek.
Beaver Creek.
Branch of Holston.
Wolf Hill Creek.
Reedy Creek.
Sinking Creek.
Br. Middle Fork Holston.
N. side South Fork Holston.
Rich Valley, Drm. in Colonel
Byrd's Reg.
Rich Valley.
Mockison Creek.
Bi-anch of Holston.
Mockison Creek.
H'd Waters M. F. of Holston.
Beaver Creek.
foot Big Spr. Mt., W. New Ri'r.
Plumb Cr., Br. N. F. of Hols'n.
Cumberson Bottom, New River.
Br. Laurel Fork, Waters S. F.
Middle Fork.
Middle Fork.
South Fork.
South Fork.
Dividing Ridge Hoi. & Reed C.
Hungers Mother, Br. Mid. F.
Hays' Spring, Br. Middle F.
Middle Fork.
Joining Iron Mt., S. side S. F.
Spence Creek, Br. Middle Fork.
M. F. bet. Gooseberry Garden
and Royal Oak.
N. Br. M. F., above Seven-Mile
Ford.
Middle F., oppo. Aspin Bottom.
N. Br. Middle Fork of Holston.
South fork.
N. side South Fork.
North side Soutn Fork.
North side South Fork.
S. F., includ. head Sp'g thereof.
Laurel Fork of Holston.
Head Waters of Holston.
Flat Rock, Br. Waters of N. F.
Waters South Fork.
Washington County, 1717-1810.
815
Jan.
29,
1774.
Mar.
10,
1774.
Jan.
28,
1774.
Feb.
21,
1775.
21,
1/75.
20,
1775.
Dec.
16,
1774.
Mar.
2,
1775.
2,
1775.
Feb.
4,
1775. ,
22,
1775.
24,
1775.
25,
1775.
27,
1775.
Mar.
1,
1775.
1,
1775.
2
1775.
Feb.
21,
1775.
^8,
1775.
22,
1775.
Mar.
2,
1775.
Feb.
28,
1775.
Mar.
4,
1775.
Feb.
24,
1775.
May
16,
1775.
18,
1775.
19,
1775.
17,
1775.
15,
1775.
12,
1773.
20,
1775.
15,
1775.
16,
1775.
19,
1775.
12,
1775.
20,
1775.
20,
1775.
20,
, 1775.
Mar.
21,
1775.
ACRES.
Wm. Lester, 250 Poplar Grove, Br. of Holston.
Wm. McMiillin, 250 South l^ork.
Arthur Gilbreath, . . 255 Middle ForK.
Wm. Campbell, .... 1345 Aspinvale.
Arthur Campbell, ..l;il5 Royal Oak, Middle Fork.
John Sharp 100 Beaver Creek.
J. Dysart, W. Miller, 200 Mockison Creek.
John Hays, 234 Rich Valley.
Wm. Richison, 157 Waters North Fork Holston.
John Haven, 176 Sugar Tree Bot'm, W. X. Ri"r.
Andrew Lamie, 110 Cove Creek, N. F. Holston.
Henry Dougherty, . . 240 Big Creek, waters N. F. of Hoi.
John Campbell, 260 Rich Valley.
Wm. McElheny, 250 Rich Valley, North Fork.
Isaac Spratt, 264 Waters N. Fork of Holston.
John Spratt, 232 North Fork.
Andrew Steel, 85 Lick Creek, waters North Fork.
Benj. Watson, 184 Rich Valley.
Wm. Hays, 224 North Fork.
Arch. Buchanan, . . . 266 Locust Cove, North Fork.
John Bowyer, 180 Lick Creek, N. F. of Holston.
Chas. Blackly, 180 Lick Creek, N. F. of Holston.
Wm. Davies, 573 both sides Beaver Dam C. the
Bend.
Robert Preston, 315 Rich Valley.
Andrew Leaper, .... 270 Waters South F. Holston.
John Gross, 200 south side South Fork.
Reuben Thomas, .... 100 south side South Fork.
Alex. McClure, 570 South F. Holston.
Griffith Lewis, 192 Two-Mile Cr., Br. S. F. Holston.
Wm. Allison.' 224 Head Waters S. Fork Holston.
Wm. Lamie 250 Waters Mid. F. of Holston.
Joshua Jones, 273 One-Mile Cr., Waters S. F. Hoi.
Wm. Lewis, 204 south side S. F. of Holston.
Robert Lamie, 206 N. side South Fork Holston.
Robert Allison, 340 Head Waters S. F. Holston.
Daniel Johnson, .... 243 north side of Clinch.
Wm. Patienson, .... 143 Waters North Fork of Clinch.
James Scroggs, .... 145 N. Waters of Clinch.
Francis Hynes, .... 144 S. side North Fork of Clinch.
S16 Southwest Virginia, IIJ^G-IISG.
.AIEMBERS OF ITIE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE
UNITED STATES REPRESENTING WASHINGTON COUNTY
FROM 1789-1904.
1777-1789 — Representatives elected by the General Assembly.
1789-1793 — Andrew Moore, Rockbridge county, Third District.
1793-1797 — Francis Preston, Washington county. Fourth District.
1797-1809 — Abram Trigg, Montgomery county. Fourth District.
1809-1817 — Daniel ShefTey, Wythe county. Sixth District.
1817-1825 — Alexander Smyth, Wythe county.
1825-1827 — Benjamin Estill, Washington county. Twenty-second Dis-
trict.
1827-1830— Alexander Smyth, Wythe county.
1830-1831^oseph Draper, Wythe county.
1831-1832 — Cliarles C. Johnston, Washington county.
1832-1833— Joseph Di-aper, Wythe county.
1833-1835— John H. Fulton, Washington county.
1835-1847 — George W. Hopkins, Washington county, Tliirteenth Dis-
trict.
1847-1849— Andrew S. Fulton, Wythe county.
1 849- 1857— Fayette McMullen, Smyth county.
1857-1859 — George W. Hopkins, Washington county.
1859-1861— Elbert S. Martin, Lee county.
1861- 1SG3 — Walter Preston, Washington county, Confederate States
Congress.
1863-1865— Fayette McMullen, Smyth county, Confederate States
Congress.
1865-1867 — Daniel Hoge, Montgomery county, not admitted to seat.
1869-1871 — James K. Gibson, Washington coimty.
1871-1873— William Terry, Wythe county.
1873-1875— Rees T. Bowen, Tazewell coynty.
1875-1877 — William Terry, Wythe county.
1877-1879 — A. L. Pridemore, Lee county.
1879-1881— J. B. Richmond, Scott county.
1881-1883 — Abram Fulkerson, Washington county.
1883-1885— Henry Bowen, Tazewell county.
1885-1887 — Connally F. Trigg, Washington county.
1887-1889— Honry Bowen, Tazewell county.
1889-1893 — John A. Buchanan, Washington county. ^
1893-1895— James W. Marshall, Craig county.
1895-1899— James A. Walker, Wythe county.
1899-1903— William F. Rhea, Bristol city.
1903-1905— Campbell Slemp, Lee county.
WasJiington County, 1777-1870.
817
:MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES IN THE GENERAL AS-
SEMBLY OF VIRGINIA FROM WASHINGTON COUNTY FROM
1777-1904.
77 — William Cocke and Anthony Bledsoe.
78 — Arthur Campbell and Anthony Bledsoe.
79 — David Campbell and Isaac Shelby.\
80 — William Campbell and Aaron Lewis.
81 — ^William Campbell and William Moore.
82 — Arthur Campbell and David Campbell.
83 — Arthur Campbell and James Montgomery.
84 — ^\Villiam Russell and James Montgomery.
85 — Andrew Kincannon and William Russell.
86 — ^Arthur Campbell and Robert Craig.
87 — Arthur Campbell and Samuel Edmiston.
88 — John Lowry and Samuel Edmiston.
89 — William Tate and Thomas Edmiston.
90 — William Tate and Samuel Edmiston.
91 — William Tate and Samuel Edmiston.
92— William Tate and J. S. Blair.
93— Samuel Edmiston and William Tate.
94 — Samuel Edmiston and William Tate.
95 — William Tate and Daniel Perkins.
96 — William Tate and Daniel Perkins.
97 — James Bradley and Samuel Meek.
98 — James Bradley and Samuel Meek.
1799 — James Dysart and Samuel Meek.
1800 — Samuel JNIeek and Robert Craig.
1801^ — Samuel Meek and James Dysart.
1802 — Samuel ]\Ieek and Robert Craig.
1803 — Samuel Meek and John Fulkerson.
1804 — Frederick Hamilton and Andrew McHenry.
1805 — Henry S. Dixon and Thomas Edmiston.
1806 — Andrew McHenry and Frederick Hamilton.
1807 — Frederick Hamilton and William Byars.
1808 — David Ci-aig and William Byars.
1809 — William Byars and David Craig.
1810 — William Byars and David Craig.
1811 — William Byars and John Campbell.
1812 — Reuben Bradley and Francis Preston.
1813 — Reuben Bradley and John Campbell.
1814 — Reuben Bradley and Francis Preston.
1815 — Reuben Bradley and Francis Preston.
1816 — Reuben Bradley and Benj. Estill.
1817 — John Goodson and L. L. Henderson. •
1818 — John Goodson and L. L. Henderson.
SIS Southurst Vin/inia, 17JfG-17S6.
18ir)_^Villi;nn Poston and William P. Thompson. Unseated
by contest, Peter Mayo.
1820— Nathaniel Dryden and Peter Mayo.
1821 — Reuben Bradley and Peter Mayo.
1822— Reuben Bradley and Peter Mayo.
1823 — John H. Fulton and Robert Edmiston.
1824— John H. Fulton and Reuben Bra^lley.
1825 — .lames Miller and Patterson Fletcher.
1826 — Robert E. Cummings and John Keller.
1827 — Robert E. Cummings and John Keller.
1828 — Robert E. Cummings and Henry P. Thompson.
1829 — Robert E. Cummings and John Keller.
1830 — Robert E. Cummings and John Keller.
1831— Thomas McCulloch and John Keller.
1832 — Thomas McCulloch and John Keller.
1833-1834— Thomas McCulloch.
1835-1830- John Clark.
1837— John Gibson.
1838-1847— Samuel E. Goodson.
1848-1849— John B. Floyd.
1850 — George W. Hopkins, Elected Speaker House of Dele-
gates.
1851 — George W. Hopkins.
1852 — William King and I. B. Dunn. Dunn resigned. W. K.
Heiskell elected to fill vacancy.
1853 — William King and William K. Heiskell.
1854—1. B. Dunn and C. S. Bekem.
1855— W. K. Heiskell and John B. Floyd.
1857— R. E. Grant and W. L. Rice.
1359 — George W. Hopkins and Jacob Lynch. Lynch resigned.
A. R. Preston elected to fill vacancy.
1861— D. C. Dunn and David B. Clark.
1863 — A. C. Cummings and George Graham.
1865— C. S. Bekem and Josiah Teeter.
1869— George Graham and J. F. Terry.
1871 — A. C. Cummings and A. Fulkerson.
1873 — Selden Longley and A. Fulkerson.
1875—1. C. Fowler and C. B. Coale.
1877—1. C. Fowler and Jonas S. Kelly.
1879^Jonas S. Kelly and D. F. Bailey.
1881—1. C. Fowler and Jonas S. Kelly. I. C. Fowler elected
Speaker House of Delegates.
1883— Jonas S. Kelly and Daniel Trigg.
1885 — John A. Buchanan and A. Fulkerson.
1887 — John Roberts and S. P. Edmondson.
1889— James Crow and E. S. Kendrick.
1891— C. W. Alderson and L. H. Snodgrass.
1893— E. S. Kendrick and W. H. Tomney.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 819
1895— A. F. Rambo and J. M. Butt.
1897— C. H. Jennings and T. J. Campbell.
1899— John W. Price and C. H. McClung.
1901— John W. Mort and A. J. Huff.
Senate.
1777-1787 — William Fleming, Botetourt countj'.
1787-1795 — William Russell, Russell county.
1795-1802— John Preston, Montgomery county.
1802-1805 — James Preston, Montgomery countj^
1805-1809— Daniel Sheffey, Wythe county.
1809-1811— Alexander Smyth, Wythe county.
1811-1813 — Francis Smith, Washington county.
1813-1818 — Henry Chapman, Giles county.
.1818-1822 — Francis Preston, Washington county.
-1822-1824— David Campbell, Washington county.
1824-1829— John D. Sharp, Lee county.
1829-1831— John H. Fulton, Washington county.
1831-1834— George Cowan, Russell county.
1834-1838— John Keller, Washington county.
1838-1849— Fayette McMullen, Smyth county.
1849 — Henry S. Kane, Scott county.
1850-1851— George Cowan.
1852-1857— Thomas M. Tate, Smyth county.
1857-1861— B. R. Floyd, Wythe county.
1861 - — Hiram A. Griever, Smyth county.
1863-1864— William E. Peters, Smyth county.
1864-1865— Jos. J. Graham, Wythe county.
1865-1871 — Jos. W. Davis, Washington county.
1871-1877 — James S. Griever, Smyth county.
1877-1881— A. Fulkerson, Bristol, Va..
1881-1885— D. F. Bailey, Bristol, Va.
1885-1889— W. F. Rhea, Bristol, Va.
1889-1893— E. L. Roberts, Bristol, Va.
1893-1897— B. F. Buchanan, Smyth county.
1897-1901— C. W. Steele, Washington county.
1901-190 —J. C. Byars, Bristol, Va.
820 Soidhwest Virginia, 17JfG-1786.
\1K(;1KIA CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTIONS.
FiNCASTLE County.
1776 — Aitlmr faiiiphfll and William Kussell.
Washington County.
178S— Samuel Edniiston and James Montgomery.
1829-1830— Edward Campbell and William Byars.
— John B. George, of Tazewell, and Andrew McMillan, of Lee.
1850-1851 — Benjamin Rush Floyd, George W. Hopkins,
— Thonuis M. Tate and Connally F. Trigg.
Hopkins resigned. Elected Speaker of House of Delegates.
Trigg elected to fill vacancy caused by resignation of Hopkins.
1867-1868 — I. H. Thompson, Joseph T. Campbell.
1901-1!H)'2 — lohn ( '. Summers, Preston W. Campbell.
JUSTICES OF THE COUNTY COURT.
Augusta County, 1740-1770.
Anderson, John, December 1, 1740.
Alexander, Archibald, June 11, 1751.
Archer, John, June 15, 1757.
Buchanan, John, December 1, 1740.
Brown, John, December 1, 1740.
Bell, James, December I, 1740.
Barton, Richard, June, 1746.
BordeK, Benjamin, June 11, 1751.
Breckenridge, Robert, June 11, 1751.
Bowyer, John, March 25, 1755.
Buchanan, James, June 15, 1757. —
Blagg, John, June 15, 1757.
Bowyer, William, June 15, 1757.
Cunningham, Robert, December 1, 1740.
Christian, John, December 1, 1740.
Campbell, Robert, December 1, 1740.
Craven, Robert, December 1, 1740.
Christian, William, June 11, 1751.
Christian, Israel June 15, 1757.
Dickenson, Adam, December 1, 1740.
Downs. Henry, June, 1746.
Downs, Ifenry, Jr., May 9, 1749.
Denton, John, June 11, 1751.
Dickenson, John, March 20, 1755.
English, Thomas June 11, 1751.
Fleming. W illiam, June, 1765.
Gray, Samuel, June, 1746.
Gilbert, Felix, Tune 11, 1757.
Hart, Silas, June 1, 1740.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
831
Hook, Robert, May 9
Harrison, William, May 9
Harberson, William, June 11
Jamison, William, May 9
Keer, James, December 1
Kennedy, Joseph, June 11
Lewis, John, December 1
Lewis, Thomas, December 1
Lewis, Andrew, June 1 1
Lynn, John, June 11
Ijockhart, James, June 11
Lyle, John, June 1 1
Montgomery, James, June 1
Martin. Patrick, June 11
Mills, John June 11
"^McClanalian, Robert, June 11
Matthews, John, June 11
Martin, Robert, June 11
ilcClanahan, Alexander, June 11
Matthews, Sampson, June 11
McDowell, Samuel, June 11
Neely, James, March 20
O'Dell, Samuel, May 9
Patton, James, December 1
\ Poa^, Robert, December 1
Pickens, John, December 1
Pickens, Andrew, December 1
Patterson, Erwin, June 11
»Preston, William, March 20
1745.
1745.
1751.
1745.
1740.
1751.
1740.
1740.
1751.
1751.
1751.
1751.
1746.
1751.
1751.
1751.
1751.
1757.
1757.
1757.
1757.
1755.
1749.
1748.
1748.
1748.
1748.
1751.
1755.
1740 — George Robinson.
1751 — James Rutledge.
1757 — Daniel Smith.
1751 — ^Mathias Scltger.
1751— David Stewart.
1740 — John Tinier.
1746 — William Thompson.
1741 — Abraham Vanderpool.
1 740 — John Wilson.
1751 — Robert Ramsey.
1751— John Riddle.
1755 — Alexander Sayers.
1740— Peter Scholl.
1751 — Thomas Stewart.
1 740 — Hugh Thompson.
1741 — Ephraim Vass.
1740— Richard Woods.
1751 — Alexander Wright.
BOTETOURT COUNTY— 1770-1774.
The first court met at the house of Robert Breckenridge in said county
on Tuesday, the 1.3th day of February, 1770. William Preston and James
Trimble administered the oath.
Arbuckle, Matthew, June 11, 1771.
^Breckenridge, Robert, February 1.3, 1770.
Bowyer, John, February 13, 1770.
832 Southwest Virginia, 17Jt6-17SG.
Bowman, John, February 14, 1770.
Bkdsoe, Anthony, February 14, 1770.
Christian, Israel, February 13, 1770.
Christian, William, February 14, 1770.
Crockett, Waiter, February 14, 1770.
Doage, Kobcrt, February 14, 1770.
Estill, Benjamin, Febiiiary 13, 1770.
Fleming, William, February 13, 1770.
Hawkins, Benj., February 13, 1770.
Howard, John, February 14, 1770.
Herbert, William, February 14, 1770.
Inglis, William, February 14, 1770.
Love, Philip, February 14, 1770.
Lewis, Andrew, February 14, 1770.
Montgomery, John, February 14, 1770.
IMaxwell, John, February 13, 1770.
McGavock, James, February 14, 1770.
Matthews, William, February 14, 1770.
McKee, W'illiam, February 14, 1770.
Preston, William, February 13, 1770.
Kobinson, David, February 13, 1770.
Robertson, James, Febniary 14, 1770.
Robinson, John, June 11, 1771.
Skillem, George, February 13, 1770.
Smith, Francis, February 14, 1770.
Stewart, John, June 11, 1771.
Trigg, Stephen, February 14, 1770.
Trimble, James, Februai-y 13, 1770.
Thompson, James-on-Holston, June 11, 1771.
Woods, Richard, February 13, 1770.
W^oods,, Andrew, February 14, 1770.
Van Bebber, John, June 11, 1771.
FINCASTLE COUNTY— 1773-1777.
Court assembled at the Lead ]\Iines on January 5, 1773. Oath admin-
istered by Arthur Campbell and James Thompson.
Bledsoe, Anthony, January 5, 1773.
Campbell, Arthur, January 5, 1773.
Christian, William, January 5, 1773.
Crockett, Walter, January 5, 1773.
Crockett, Samuel, January 5, 1773.
Campbell, William, January 6, 1773.
Doach, Robert, January 5, 1773.
Estill, Benj., January 5, 1773.
Herbert, William, January 6, 1773.
Inglis, William, January 5, 1773.
Montgomery, John, January 5, 1773.
Washingto7i County, 1777-1S70. 833
McGavock, James, January 5, 1773.
McKee, Alexander, January 5, 1773.
McCorkle, James, January 6, 1773.
Preston, William, January 5, 1773.
Russell, William, January 5, 1773.
Thompson, James, January 8, 1773.
Trigg, Stephen, January 8, 1773.
JUSTICES OF WASHINGTON COUNTY— 1777-1870.
Anderson, John, January 28, 1777.
Adair, John, November 25, 1777.
Buchanan, Alexander, January 28, 1777.
Blackburn, George, January 28, 1777.
Barnett, Alexander, July 18, 1780.
Black, Joseph, July 18, 1780.
Blackmore, John, November 29, 1782.
Bradley, James, January 17, 1791.
Buchanan, Wm. (died ]\[arch 29, 1846,),- -October 16, 1813.
Barb, Jacob, June 19, 1821.
Bronough, Jeremiah, May 27, 1839.
Baltzeli, David, July 25, 1842.
Bradley, Reuben (died June 6, 1844,) March 18, 1806.
Bradley, Abram (died October, 1846,), January 1, 1814.
Bowen, Arthur M., May 27, 1824.
Byars, William B., September 23, 1844.
Bradley, John L., September 23, 1844.
Bradley, Abram F., . . . September 23, 1850.
Bradley, D. O September 23, 1850.
Berry, Nathaniel, September 23, 1852.
Buchanan, Solon, August 23, 1852.
Beattie, Absalom, August 23, 1852.
Bailey, James A., May 24, 186 -.
Butt, William A., April 10, 1869.
Buchanan, Matthew, July 15, 1811.
Berry, John, October 24, 1793.
Baker, Jacob, December 20, 1805.
Byars, John, April 30, 1808.
Byars, William, March 30, 1810.
Branch, Peter J., May 30, 1826.
Bonham, Joseph, September 8, 1829.
Campbell, Arthur, January 28, 177.
Campbell, William, January 28, 1777.
Campbell, John, January 28, 1777.
Coulter, John, January 28, 1777.
Christian, Gilbert, November 25, 1777.
Craig, Robert, November 25, 1777.
Caldwell, Thomas, November 25, 1777.
834 Soiiihiref<t Yirgwia, 17J/6-17S6.
CaiiipbelK Kobort July 18, 1780.
Cowan, William, November 29, 1782.
Cowan, Andrew, November 29, 1782.
Campbell, Arthur Jr., September 9, 1820.
Conn, William Y., September 9, 1793.
Cunimings, John C May 27, 1839.
Clark, David, May 27, 1839.
C';nnpl)ell, David, July 25, 1842.
Cummin<,is, Robert E., August 10, 1811.
Cummings, James (died Aug. 1, 1840) ,. .October 19, 1803.
Carson, David, September 15, 1812.
Christian, Samuel, May 27, 1837.
Craig, Robert C, September 23, 1844.
Catron, i^'rancis K., September 23, 1844.
Carmack, Cornelius, September 23, 1850.
Caldwell, John S., August 23, 1852.
Campbell, James L., August 23, 1852.
Campbell, John C, August 23, 1854.
Cole, James L., August 23, 1854.
Crockett, J. M., August 23, 1854.
Crow, James, August 23, 1854.
Cummings, Robert E., May 24, 186--,
Campbell, J. L. F., May 24, 186-.
Clark, D. B., May 26, 1864.
Campbell, Chas. C, ^ June 25, 1867.
Counts, L. h., . .April 10, 1869.
Craig, James, September 27, 1796.
Campbell, David, Jr., July 15, 1811.
Dysart, James, January 28, 1777.
Dirnkin, John, November 25, 1777.
Davis, Jas. (son of Jno., died Mar. 16, 1844,) . June 19, 1821,
Davis, James L., May 25, 1840.
Duff, Samuel C, May 25, 1840.
Davis, Robert, .August 20, 1811.
Duff, John, December 20, 1814.
Dryden, Nathaniel, December 20, 1814.
• , Davis, William, May 27, 1837.
Dunn, I. B., September 23, 1850.
Davenport, I'homas, August 23, 1852.
Duff, Wm. K., Auguist 23, 1854.
Davis, Joseph W., August 23, 1856.
Denton, David C, May 26, 1864.
Dutton, Peter, August 28, 1865.
Deck, Joseph, August 28, 1865.
Davenport, Henry (presiding justice), ....April 10, 1869.
DeBusk, Wm., May 14. 1860.
Dixon, George, July 15, 1811.
Davis, John, December 25, 1798.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 825
Edmiston, Wm., January 28, 1777.
Estill, Benj., July 18, 1780.
Edmiston, Samuel, , 17 — .
Edmiston, Andrew, May 25, 1839.
Eakin, John (presiding justice), May 25, 1839.
Edmiston, Robert, March 18, 1806.
Ellington, Francis, May 27, 1837.
Edmiston, W. C, August 23, 1852.
Ellington, J. D., May 27, 186--.
Edwards, Arthur, September 25, 1865.
Eastridge, William, . August 28, 1865.
Edmondson, W. C, March 30, 1810.
Edmiston, John, December 20, 1805.
Eulkerson, James, July 18, 1780.
Eulton, Samuel, December 25, 1798.
iulkerson, Thomas, . September 19, 1820.
1^'leenor, Michael C, June 19, 1821.
Eulkerson, Abram, January 21, 1812.
Fullen, Francis, May 27, 1837.
Fudge, Conrad, August 23, 1852.
Fleenor, Drury, August 23, 1852.
Fleenor, Allen, December 25, 1854.
Fields, James, May 24, 186--.
Fleenor, John, December 20, 1805.
Uillenwaters, Elijah, December 17, 1793.
Ganaway, Robinson, September 21, 1820.
Gibson, Andrew (died Nov. 21, 1839), June 19, 1821.
Gibson, John, March 30, 1810.
Goodson, John, May 2, 1806.
Graham, William, September 15, 1827.
Goodson, Samuel E., September 15, 1827.
Gillenwaters, John W., September 23, 1844.
Gobble, Wm. M., September 23, 1850.
Greenway, James C, May 24, 186-.
Gillenwaters, G. L., May 24, 186 -.
Gollihorn, James A., May 26, 1864.
Hensely, Samuel, .December 27, 1798.
Houston, John, December 27, 1798.
Henderson, Lilburn L., January 19, 1819.
Hanby, Peter S., May 27, 1837.
Humes, John N., May 30, 1826.
Horn, John, May 30, 1826.
Home, Isaac, September 23, 1844.
Hagy, Martin, September 23, 1850.
Hamilton, John M., Sept^-mber 23, 1850.
Hendricks, T. P., May 24, 186-.
Hite, Nicholas, May 26, 1864.
Houstoi., Samuel, May 26, 1864.
.826 Southwest Virginia, 17J/G-1786.
llorne, Joel, May 26, 1868.
Hurt, ¥. B., May 26, 1860.
Home, John E., May 24, 1860.
Harper, James, April 30, 1808.
Hamilton, Frederick, August 20, 1803.
Iiayter, Abraham, Jr., December 25, 1798.
Hawkins, John October 24, 1793.
Houston, Robert, September 8, 1829.
Ingle, Willis, May 24, 1860.
Jamison, Edward H September 19, 1820.
Jett, spencer, June 21, 1808.
Johnson, Walter, May 24, 1860.
Jones, John, May 24, 1860.
Jamison, John, March 18, 1784.
Johnston, Peter C, May 27, 1824.
Kinkead, John (died Octo. 22, 1841), . .January 28, 1777.
Keys, James, January 17, 1797.
King, James, June 19, 1&21.
King, Jonathan, September 8, 1829.
Keys, James, July 15, 1842.
Kincannon, James, October 20, 1810.
King, Sidney, August 23, 1852.
Key, George B., August 23, 1852.
Keys, Robert, August 23, 1856.
Kelly, James, May 26, 1864.
King, James A., May 26, 1864.
Kent, Jacob B., April 10, 1869.
Keller, John, May 3, 1826.
Lewis, Aaron, July 18, 1780.
Latham, John, July 18, 1780.
Lowry, John, May .29, 1782.
Ix)gan, Wm. S. (died July 26, 1843), June 21, 1808.
Latham, Edward, September 18, 1820.
Love, Leonidas, May 27, 1839.
Lynch, Daniel (died March 16, 1845), .May 22, 1824.
Lyon, Humberson, September 23, 1844.
Lenahan, John, August 23, 1856.
Linder, J. D., May 24, 186--.
Lowry, John M., May 26, 1864.
Love, J. W., May 26, 1864.
Linder, Abram, May 26, 1860.
Lowry, Robert S., May 21, 1827.
Martin, Joseph, January 28, 1777.
Montgomery, James, January 28, 1777.
Mastin, Thomas, January 28, 1777.'
Montgomery, Thomas, July 18, 1780.
Montgomery, Alexander, July 18, 1780.
McCarty, Enoch, August 24, 1793.
Washington Comity, 1777-1S70.
McChesney, Thomas, June
McCulloch, Tliomas, September
Meek, James, December
Meek, William, January
Mitchel, John, August
Mitchel, John D., May
Moffett, John, June
Maxwell, John N., May
Meek, James, May
McChesney, Hugh A. (died Dec, 1845), May
Mallicote, A. R., July
Minnick, Peter, October
McCulloch, John, February
Meek, James (died Oct., 1865), February
McCulloch, Robert, April
Mooi-e, Samuel, April
McNew, James, ^^7
Merchant, Jacob, May
McConnell, James S., JMay
Miller, Joseph (died Dec, 1845), March
McGhee, William, March
Mongle, Abram, . September
Maxwell, Wallace, September
McHenry, David, September
Milner, W. P., August
McGinnis, Noble I., August
Mann, Henry A., May
Maiden, J. M., May
McNew, Elisha, August
Moore, W. F., May
Maxwell, Thomas, .March
MeClellan, John, December
Newell, Samuel, November
Nordyke, Abraham, September
Nuchols, Richard, May
Orr, A. S., May
Outlaw, Alexander, November
Orr, James, . .May
Ogden, Elias, May
Preston, Robert, November
Preston, Wm. C, June
Preston, Robert, Jr., January
Preston, T. L., July
Preston, John, Jr., January
Poston, Hatch D., December
Preston, Francis, November
Preston, John M., May
Preston, W. A., May
827
15
1802
19
1820
25
1805
19
1821
20
1803
27
1839
19
1821
27
1839
25
1840
25
1840
25
1842
19
1816
18
1806
18
1806
30
1808
21
1818
22
1837
22
1837
22
1837
20
1810
20
1810
23
1844
23
1850.
23
1850
23
1852
23
1852
27
1858
26
1864
28
1865
24
1860
20
1810
25
1805
29
1782
19
1820
24
1860
24
1860
24
1782
27
1839
27
1837.
17
1783.
19,
1821.
17,
1804.
25,
1842.
17
1804.
25,
1814.
22
1798.
27,
1837.
27,
1837.
828 Southwest Virginia, IIJ/O-ITSO.
Paxton, James W., May 27, 1837.
Patterson, Andrew, May 27, 1837.
Price, John W., September 25, 1844.
Preston, John F., September 25, 1844.
Patterson, Thomas E., August 23, 1852.
Patterson, Sampson, August 23, 1856.
Price, Daniel E., August 23, 1856.
Phelps, James, May 24, 1865.
Patterson, S. C, May 26, 1864.
Porterfield, J. C, May 26, 1864.
Pippin, Elisha, April 10, 1869.
Preston, James T., • . May 24, 1860.
Ritchie, Samuel, Wovemher 29, 1782.
Roddy, Frederick Y., June 19, 1821.
Robertson, Wyndham, July 25, 1842.
Rosenbalm, Valentine, May 22, 1837.
Rhea, W. R., September 23, 18.50.
Reid, Benjamin, August 23, 1852.
Roberts, Heniy, August 23, 1852.
Rice, W. L., August 23, 1856.
Rosenbalm, David, May 26, 1864.
Rose, John D., ' April 15, 1869.
Rosenbalm, L. F., April 15, 1869.
Roberts, John, May 24, 1860.
Russell, William, October 24, 1793.
Shelby, Evan, January 28, 1777.
Smith, Daniel, January 28, 1777.
Snoddy, John, January 28, 1777.
Shelby, Isaac, November 25, 1777.
Smith, Henry, November 29, 1782.
Smyth, Tobias, September 19, 1820.
Stewart, Robert, September 19, 1820.
Smith, Francis (died July 26, 1844), . .December 25, 1814.
Smith, Lewis, June 21, 1810.
Smith, Parker, May 22, 1837.
Shankland, R. M., September 23, 1844.
Snodgrass, J. M., August 23, 1862.
Stratton, James P., August 23, 1856.
Stitton, John F., May 24, 1860.
Snodgrass, James, ,. . .May 26, 1864.
Sharp, James L., May 24, 1860.
Scott, Wm., May 22, 1783.
Scott, Archibald, May 22, 1783.
Sevier, Jacob, December 20, 1805.
Smith, Jonathan, April 30, 1808.
Tate, William, .March 18, 1784.
Taylor, James, October 18, 1803.
Thompson, Henry B., May 15, 1821.
Washington County, 1711-1870.
829
Tilson, Thomas, March
Teeter, Jacob, June
Thomas, Thomas, February
Tate, Charles, February
Thompson, W. P., June
Taylor, James, June
Trigg, Daniel, May
Trigg, William K., May
Trigg, Abram F., . . , September
Teeter, Josiah, May
Tate, M. B., May
Tate, M., March
Trigg, Jos. C, March
Ward, David, July
Watson, David, July
Willoughby, Matthew, September
White, James (died Oct. 20, 1839), February
Wills, Samuel H., IVIay
White, Wm. Y. C, May
Weathers, Michael W., September
Worley, John W., September
Ward, Ota H., July
Widener, Reuben, August
White, H. C, August
Widener, Elias, April
Widener, James J., April
Watson, Patrick, May
17,
1812.
10,
1821.
19,
1806.
19,
1806.
22
1808.
22
1808.
22
1837.
22,
1837.
23,
1844.
24,
1860.
24,
1864.
24,
1810.
27,
1824.
18,
1780.
18,
1780.
27,
1796.
19,
1799.
27,
1839.
27,
1837.
23,
1844.
23,
1850.
23,
1852.
23,
1852.
25,
1865.
10,
1869.
10,
1869.
22,
1783.
SHERIFFS AUGUSTA COUNTY, 1745-1770.
Patton, James, December 9, 1745.
Downs, Henry, June 17, 1746.
Lewis, John, July 16, 1748.
McClanahan, Robert, August 27, 1749.
Stewart, David, November 21, 1751.
Breckenridge, Robert, , .
Lewis, Andrew, November 18, 1756.
Botetourt County, 1770-1773.
Woods, Richard, February 13, 1770.
Christian, Israel, November 12, 1771.
SHERIFFS AND DEPUTY SHERIFFS.
FiNCASTLE County, 1773-1777.
Preston, William, January 5, ] 773.
830 Southwest Virginia, 17 46-1 7 S6.
W'AsiiixGTON County.
Dysart, Jaimis January 28, 1777.
Campbell, Arthur, February 16, 1779.
Ediiiiston, Wm., August 20, 1782.
Dysart, James, March 16, 1784.
Kinkead, John, August 17, 1784.
Montgomery, James, January 18, 1785.
Craig, Hobert, February 13, 1787.
Fulkerson, James, January 11, 1789.
Montgomeiy, Alexander, Januaiy 11, 1791.
Campbell, Robert, January 15, 1793.
Preston, Robert, January 20, 1795.
Campbell, Arthur, January 17, 1797.
Edmiston, Samuel, January 15, 1799.
Tate, William, February 17, 1801.
McCarty, Enoch, March 15, 1803.
Conn, William Y., February 20, 1805.
Gillen waters, Elijah, January 20, 180/.
Bradley, James, .June 20, 1809.
Willoughby, Matthew, June 18, 1811.
Keys, James, July 20, 1813.
Fulton, Samuel, June 20, 1815.
Hensely, Samuel, March 19, 1817.
White, James, March 16, 1819.
Houston, John, March 24, 1821.
McChesney, Thomas, March 18, 1723.
Taylor, James, March 15, 1825.
Cummings, James, March 20, 182V.
Preston, John, Jr., March 17, 1829.
Thomas, Thomas, April 19, 1831.
Meek, James, March 25, 1833.
Bradley, Reuben, December 23, 1833.
McCulloch, John, May — , 1836.
Logan, Wm. S., May 12, 1838.
Smith, Lewis, May 15, 1840.
Jiradley, Abram, May 21, 1842.
Buchanan, William, May 13, 1844.
DufF, John, . .May 22, 1846.
Minnick, Peter, May 16, 1848.
Moore, Samuel, May 13, 1850.
Latham, Edward, March 22, 1852.
Buchanan, Matthew H., July 1, 1852.
Skinner, Samuel, July 1, 1857.
Heiskell, Wm. King, July 1, 1860.
Hamilton, John M., July 1, 1862.
Heiskell, Wm. King, July 1, 1864.
Fields, James, July 3, 1865.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
831
Campbell, James L. F., January 11, 1866.
Henritze, James, May 26, 1866.
Dimn, William A., March 15, 1869.
Fields, James, April 25, 1870.
Cosby, John D., October 8, 1870.
Jones, 1. F., July 1, 1879.
Hughes, Robert E., July 1, 1883.
Hortenstine, Joel W., July 1, 1896.
DEPUTY SHERIFFS BOTETOURT COUXTV, 1770-1773.
McDowell, James, February 13, 1770.
McGavock, James, February 13, 1770.
Mastin, Thomas, February 13, 1770.
McClanahan, William, November 12, 1771.
Smith, Francis, February 13, 1770.
Trigg, Daniel, November 12, 1777.
Woods, Arthur, April 15, 1770.
Fi>'CAsTLE County, 1770-1776.
Trigg, Daniel, January 5, 1773.
Floyd, John, January 5, 1773.
Moore, Henrj^, January 5, 1773.
Thompson, James, January 5, 1773.
Sayers, William, September 3, 1776.
Washixgtox CorxTY.
Acklin, Christopher, April 22
Ashley, D. L., July 1
Browning, Jesse, , —
Bruce, N. B., February 26
Black, Joseph, April 29
Buchanan, M. H., * March 26
Buchanan, James S., July —
Buchanan, B. K., March 24
Buchanan, W. R., March 23
Baltzell, David, March 31
Barker, W. W. (jailer) , May 26
Bradley, A. F., March 27
Baugh, B. F., July 1
Craig, Robert, , —
Craig, John, — ?, —
Craig, Wm., , —
Carter, Charles, , —
Colvill, A., , —
Craig, Hiram, , —
Carson, William, , —
1779.
1899.
1795.
1877.
1777.
1851.
1852.
1845.
1846.
1838.
1864.
1843.
1871.
1786.
1786.
1786.
1786.
1788.
1791.
1792.
832 Southwest Virginia, 1740-17S0.
Craig, David, >
Clark, Benj., > —
Carmack, D. C, April 24
Craig, James, August 23
Clark, Benj. C, May 22
Campbell, D. A. P May 22
Clark, Job, Soi)tember 28
Crawford, John, August 18
Campbell, Francis S June 3
Clark, Jacob (jailer) . May 22
Clark, Benj. L., July 1
Clark, J. W. C, July 1
Carmack, Goodson, i^'ebiiiary 22
Colley, T. W., February 28
Clark, John J. (jailer) , December 6
Clark, P. D., . . . July —
Clark, W. H., — , —
Countiss, C. C, J)eeember 6
Calahan, Walter A., August 9
Donaldson, Alexander, June 20
DeBusk, Wm., December 27
Davidson, Andrew (jailer) , May 31
Davis, Matthew, August 9
Dunn, D. C, August 9
Dunn, John L., ; August 9
Erwin, Robert, May 18
Edmondson, Wm., May 26
Ewing, Urbine, , —
Edmiston, J., , —
Edmiston, T., , —
Edmiston, James, , —
is^ilcher, James (jailer) October 26
Fleenor, ^Nlilton, July 1
Fields, Thos. J., ! July 27
Fulkerson, Pat , —
Gobble, Thos. M., December 27
Gibbons, H. C, December 27
Gibson, John, September 28
Gibson, Chas. C September 28
Galliher, Campbell, December 27
Gray, James, December 16
Gibson, D. H December 7
Graham, W. T ^Ovember 20
Hoover, Samuel 1).. September 28
Houston, Samuel (jailer), September 27
Henritze, James (jailer) , April 25
Heiskell, Wm. K March 24
Haller, Richard J., March 23
1797.
1803.
1870.
1782.
1862.
1862.
1831.
1820.
1838.
1839.
1891.
1891.
1867.
1871.
1887.
1896.
1897.
1887.
1870.
1780.
1858.
1857.
1870.
1870.
1870.
1781.
1851.
1786.
1779.
1799.
1797.
1843.
1870.
1786.
1858.
1858.
1831.
1831.
1849.
1821.
1840.
1890.
1831.
1854.
1870.
1845.
1846.
Washington County, 1717-1810.
Hortenstine, John August
Hortenstine, Bernard T., ,
Hort«nstine, James W., ,
Hughes, R. R., July
Hughes, C. W., July
Henritze, VVm., April
Henritze, R. H., January
Huston, Wm., ,
Irvine, Robert, ,
Johnston, Walter, May
Jones, I. F. (jailer), July
Jones, R., ,
Kelly, James E., July
King, John, March
Keys, RoDert, May
Keller, S. G., October
Kidd, John J., May
Kidd, John E., April
Keller, J. B., March
Longley, James (jailer) , ,
Lee, Wm., October
Leedy, James (jailer) , May
Lynch, Jacob (jailer) , May
Litchfield, Abram T., July
Lowrj', R. S., July
Legard, S. P., July
Linder, J. D., February
Love, Wm., ,
Lowry, W. G. G., December
Maiden, Noah L., May
Mongle, Abram, May
Mitchell, John H., March
Morrison, Joe L July
Miller, G. G. (jailer) . March
Marshall, A., ,
Maxwell, David, ,
Newell, Samuel, May
Newton, W. I. ( jailer ) July
Overbay, Thos. W., April
Orr, James, ,
Fippin, W. B., January
Price, Emory O March
Price, Richard, .
Poston, Wm., ,
Ryburn, W. S., January
Roberts, James, August
Roberts, John, May
Rowan, Henry, ,
833
12, 1895.
1
1879.
1,
1879.
28
1870.
23
1866.
—
1795.
—
1788.
13
1855.
1
1875.
—
1789.
—
1852.
19
1778.
24
1860.
4
1873.
2G
1874.
26
1875.
31
1883.
—
1797.
18
1871.
22
1846.
13
, 1850.
—
1854.
21
, 1870.
21
1883.
27
1867.
—
1792.
24
1866.
26
, 1864.
12
, 1838.
16
1819.
1
1891.
31
, 1883.
—
, 1791.
—
, 1792.
19
1778.
2
1895.
18
, 1820.
—
180.5.
11
, 1866.
27
1866.
—
, 1792.
—
, 1792.
11
, 1816.
26
, 1777.
26
1864.
—
. 1786.
834
Southwest Tirginia, 17J^6-1786.
Rhea, Matthew, » —
Snodgrass, James, March 16
Skinner, Samuel (jailer), December 27
Skinner, Wm. W., January 1
Smyth, Harold, March 16
Snodgrass, Samuel M., May 22
Sharp, Benj., >
Saunders, St€phen, , —
Smyth, Alexander, , —
Toncray, Lewis (jailer) , March 16
Tate, John, January 16
Tate, Charles, » —
Toncray, James, June 17
Thompson, B. W., July 1
Trigg, Lilburn, July 1
Thompson, R. H., Januaiy 25
Taylor, Wm., , —
Willoughby, Matthew, June 19
Webb, Chas., September 27
Worley, Chas., July 1
Walkup, A., J —
Yaney, John, June 19
1790.
1783.
1858.
1857.
1819.
1839.
1786.
1788.
1791.
1819.
1821.
1791.
1819.
1891.
1883.
1871.
1788.
1/81.
1.-57.
xS87.
1791.
1781.
Attorneys and Date of Qualification.
Augusta Countt, 1744-1770.
Chew, Thomas, 1774.
Henry, Patrick, 1766.
Harvie, John, 1747.
Hogg, Peter, 1766.
Jones, Gabriel (K. C), 1746.
Madison, Tliomas, 1766.
Marr, Gideon, 1746.
Meriot, Obadiah, 1746.
Quin, John, 1746.
Nicholas, John (dec!' K. C.),..1745.
Newport, John, 1745.
Russell, William, 1740.
Sherman, John, 1748.
Pendleton, Benj., 1745.
Porter, James, 1740.
Wythe, George, 1747.
Wright, William, 1745.
Botetourt County, 1770-1773.
Aylett, John, 1770. Jones, John Gabriel, 1773.
Bowyer, Luke (K. C.) , 1770. Madison, Thomas, 1770.
Dunlop, Ephraim, 1770. Todd, John, 1771.
Jones, Harry, 1773. Winston, Edmund, 1770.
Washington County, 1777-1S70.
835
FiNCASTLE County, 1773-1776
Aylett, John (dep. atty. ), . . . .1774
Breckenridge, John, 1775
Bowser, Luke, 1773
Dunlop, Ephraim, 1773
Jones, Gabriel, 1773.
Lawson, Benj., 1773.
May, John, 1773.
IVIadison, Thomas (Dep. K. C), 1774.
Innes, Harry, 1773. Sims, Charles, 1773.
Todd, John, 1774.
Washington County, 1777-1900.
Anderson, Wm. Preston,
179S.
Arnold, James,
1830.
Aston, Wm. B.,
1805.
Ayers, Rufus A.,
1874.
Ayers, W. A.,
1874.
Bro^\Ti, John,
1783.
Bradley, Robert E., ...
1832.
Boyd, Thomas J.,
1837.
Bekem, Chas. S.,
1837.
Buckingham, P. S., ....
1849.
Black, J,M.,
1859.
Baxter, iiSidney S.,
1865.
Barker, '-Albert,
1861.
Blackley,'M. L.,
1866.
Brockenbrough, John W.
1866.
Bailey, D. F.,
1869.
Burson, John E.,
1872.
Buchanan, John A., . . .
1872.
Brown, John M.,
1874.
Blanchard, A. H.,
1875.
Bowyer, Luke,
1777.
Baskerville, Chas., ....
1877.
Barr, F. T.,
1877.
Beavers, Alex.,
1881.
Barr, Paul E.,
1882.
Buchanan, R. E., ......
1883.
Byars, J. C,
1896.
Campbell, David,
1780.
Campbell, Edward, ....
1818.
Cummings, Chas. J., . .
1837.
Clapp, Jeremiah W., . .
1838.
Campbell, John A., ....
1846.
Cummings, A. C,
1846.
Cooke, Wm. H.,
1848.
Campbell, Jos. T.,
1849.
Crank, W. S.,
1864.
Clarkson, Wm. N., ....
1865.
Cole, A. P.,
1867.
Caldwell, Jos. W., 1871.
Campbell, Daniel T., 1883.
Campbell, Etlward K., 1883.
Campbell, J. G., 1885.
Co.sby, L. T., 1888.
Campbell, Preston W., 1896.
Dixon, Henry St. John, 1819.
Dixon, Henry, 1820.
Draper, Joseph, 1833.
Davis, Archimedas, 1853.
Davis, A. M., 1855.
Day, Lexington M., 1865.
Dickenson, A. M., 1872.
Dinwiddle, S. S., 1883.
Davenport, P. J., 1888.
Dishner, J. H., 1892.
Estill, Benj., .
Evans, Walter, 1848.
Earnest, John Henry, 1851.
Edmondson, Reese B., 1861.
Egbert, George T., 1872.
Early, Jubal A., 1876.
English, Arthur, 1885.
Fulton, John H., 1821.
Fulton, Andrew S., 1832.
Floyd, John B., 1834.
Floyd, Wm. P., 1834.
Floyd, Benj. Rush, 1843.
Fulkerson, S. V., 1846.
Fulkerson, Abram, 1866.
Findlay, Frank S., 1866.
Flournoy, H. W., 1881.
Fulkerson, S. V., Jr., 1887.
Gregory, Francis R., 1832.
Gibbons, H. C, 1848.
Gilmore, James H., 1851.
Griffith, J. F., 1889.
Green, C. R., 1889.
836
Southwest Virginia, 17J,6-1786.
Harrison, Chas. E., 1827.
Hall, John, 1832.
Humes, Jas. W., 1855.
Hughes, R. W., 1859.
Hounshell, David S., 1861.
Hopkins, Henry L., 1867.
Holdway, H. W., 1867.
Humes, Francis A., 1870.
Hopkins, Geo. W., 1834.
Hawthorn, Hugh C, 1874.
Honaker, M. H., 1879.
Hutton, F. B., 1880.
Hamilton, W. S., 18S.3.
Humes, C. F., 1884.
Hamilton, H. H., 1886.
Hudgens, W. P., 1887.
Hamilton, Thomas S., 1889.
Hoge, Lacy, 1889.
Hurt, J. I., 1889.
Innes, Harry, 1779.
Johnston, Peter C, 1831.
Johnston, Charles C, 1831.
Jones, Geo. W., 1836.
Johnston, Beverly R., 1839.
Johnston, John W., 1839.
Jones, H. C, 1872.
Jones, James Alfred, 1873.
Jones, S. D., 1879.
Jenkins, Geo. G., 1886.
Johnston, Walter A., 1896.
Kane, Henry S., 1832.
Kent, Robert L., 1853.
King, Wm. Rutledge, 1894.
Leftwich, Isaac J., 1833.
Logan, Samuel, 1837.
Lampkin, John W., 1838.
Latham, Robert, 1841 .
Little, David Z., 1848.
Logan, T. M., 1855.
Logan, Samuel T., 1855.
Logan, John B. J., 1861.
Langhome, Wm. W., 1867.
Longley, Seldon, 1870.
Lindsay, S. F., 1890.
Madison, Rowland, 1779.
Mayo, Peter, 1831.
McComas, David, 1832.
Mayo, W. H., 1835.
Miller, David, 1856,
Mosby, John S., 1858.
McCormick, Samuel, 1855.
Miller, Samuel A., 1863.
McGinnis, Ira J., 1866.
McDougall, Chas., 1869.
Massie, N. H., 1870.
McCrosky, W. D., 1877.
Miller, D. C, 1878.
Miles, A. F., '..1882.
Naff, Geo. E., 1850.
Neal, John W., 1897.
Preston, John, 1833.
Preston, Walter, 1843.
Preston, Wm. B., 1846.
Preston, James T., 1847.
Pendleton, Stephen J., 1856.
Pendleton, A. G., 1856.
Palmer, Joseph H., 1861.
Pendleton, Jas. H., 1864.
Preston, Henry S., 1867.
Page, R. M., 1868.
Page, L. R., 1873.
Penn, Geo. E., 1875.
Preston, Walter E., 1875.
Porterfield, G. C, 1882.
Page, Wm., 1885.
Price, John W., 1893.
Quarrier, F. M., 1864.
Richmond, Jonathan, 1861.
Ramsay, John C, 1864.
Richardson, Robert 1866.
Royal, W. L., 1871.
Robertson, Walter H., 1874.
Robinson, A. L., 1878.
Rhea, W. F., 18—.
Sheffey, James W., 1833.
Smyth, Harold, 1833.
Sharp, John D., 1836.
Stevens, John W., 1840.
Shaver, Leonidas, 1844.
Sawyers, Thos. L. W., 1848.
Strother, James A., 1857.
Speed, John W., 1860.
Sheffey, John P., 1856.
Stafford, John W., 1866.
Summers, John Calhoun, ....1866.
Smyth, Francis, 1880.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
837
Smythe, W. F., 1881.
Stuart, John J., 1883.
Sutherland, H. W., 1890.
Summers, Lewis Preston, ....1895.
Shackleford, J. B., 1892.
Summers, Robert J., 1896.
Trigg Connally F., 1833.
Trigg, L. H., 1836.
Teetor, Josiah, 1858.
Talliferro, Wm. M., 1866.
Taylor, Henry H., 1866.
Trigg, Daniel, 1869.
Trigg, C. F., 1869.
TON County in the Years 1812-1831, Wytheville, Va.
Tilson, Thomas J.,
1874
Vance, C. R.,
1862
Wilson, John,
....1831
White, Francis S.,
.... 1838
Watson, Ed. S.,
....1856
White, James L.,
1867
Ward, George W.,
....1874
Wiley, Edward,
1896
Watson, John W. C, ...
....1837
White, John P.,
1853
Wysor, Benj. F.,
.... 1860
Wood, Harvey J.,
1868
White, Milton,
rinTTDT nc Ptt A wcTTUv vein
. . . .1883
W ASWTVfi-
Chapman, John.
Sheffey, Daniel.
Estill, Benj.
Dixon, Henry St. John.
Chapman, Henry.
Smyth, Alex.
Campbell, Edward.
McComas, David.
Johnston, ChaiS. C.
Mayo, Peter.
Craig, Robert.
Draper, Joseph.
Fulton, John H.
Smith, Wm.
McFarland, Jos. T.
Logan, Samuel.
Vanstavern, Nicholas.
Foster, John.
Stuart, Archibald.
Sisson, Baldwin L.
McCamart, Samuel.
Harrison, Chas. E.
Leftwich, Isaac J.
Carter, Dale.
Fulton, Andrew S.
Preston, Wm. B.
Pendleton, Albert G.
Johnston, B. R.
Bekem, Chas. S.
Boyd, Thomas J.
Thompson, James.
Willianiison, John.
McHenry, Andrew.
Henderson, Granville.
Forbes, John.
Henderson, Arthur.
Michie, Thomas J.
Linton, John.
Preston, W. C.
Field, Silas.
Gray, John G.
Smith, William.
Haden, Samuel.
Deputy Clerks of Washington County Court.
Branch, Peter J.,
Blackwell, A. R.,
Baugh, Leonidas,
Cosby, L. T.,
Cummings, R. P.,
Campbell, Robert,
Campbell, John, .
.1847. Cummings, D. C, Jr., 1882
. 1884. Campbell, E. K., 1876
.1869. Cummings, D. C, Sr., 1871
. 1875. Evans, W. F., 1882
. 1889. Henritze, B. J., 1868
. 1777. Kreger, John G., 1848
. 1778. Trigg, Thos. K., 1865
838
Southwest Virginia, 17Ji.6-17S6.
Lyncli, Jacob,
Lynch, Richard, . .
Preston, S. R.,
, 1858. Page, R. M., 186G.
, 1838. Page, Wm., 1870.
, 1897. Webb, Wm., 1784.
Deputy Clerks Circuit Court.
Branch. Peter J., 1842. Kreger, John G., 1858.
Campbell. Jas. C, 186G. Lynch, Jacob, 1831.
Campbell. David, 1835. Lynch, Richard, 1839-1869.
Cummings, David C, Sr., 1869. Lowry, Wm. G. G., 1865.
Dixon, Richard T., 1833. Moore, Albert B., 1838.
.1899.
,1875.
Treasurers of Washington County.
Barr, George R., 1870. Bradley, John O.,
Gray, John C, 1881. Clark, Benj. C,
Withers, Salmon M., 1887.
Superintendents of Alms House.
Miller, Jacob, . . . .August 24, 18 i3. Colley, Thomas W., 1878.
Ryan, James, 1865.
Stanfield, John C, 1^71.
Thom])son, James H., 1875.
Porter, W. J., 1887.
Caldwell, R. J., 1891.
Casteel, John R., 1890.
Betts, W. H., . .
Blackwell, A. R.,
Carmack, D. C,
Duft', D. A., ...
Findlay, F. S., .
G«isler, J. J., . .
James, N. S., . .
Mumpower, R. B.,
McChesney, Sam'l J
Ritchie, J. L., ....
Withers, S. M., . . ,
Sisk, J. C,
Deputy Treasurers of
1875.
1896.
,1878.
,1878.
,1870.
,1883.
.1890.
,1875.
,1883.
, 1875.
,1878.
,1899.
Washington County.
Barr, John W., 1873.
Clark, W. W., 1875.
Caywood, W. W., 1879.
Dimn, Geo. R., 1870.
Geisler, J. M., 1883.
Hilliard, R. A., 1895.
Jones, L F., 1875.
McNeal, W. B., 1875.
Nunley, C. A., 1887.
Ryburn, Wm. S., 1871.
Williams, James, 1875.
Kendrick, Cas, 1899.
Commissioners of the Revenue of Washington County.
Duffy, James, 1798.
Snodgrass, Wm., 1807.
Snodgrass, Wm., 1819.
King, Jonathan, 1837-1843.
Ropp, John M., 1848.
Mongle, Abram, 1850.
Lowry, James K., 1851.
Edmondson, John L. G., . .1856.
Campbell, D. A. P., I860.
Miller, Wm., 1862.
Campbell, D. A. P., 1864.
Terry, John F.; 1865.
Miller, Jacob, 1869.
Clark, Benj. C, 1870.
Blackwell, John D., 1875.
Blackwell, John D., 1883.
Ritchie, James L., 1887.
Duff, D. A., 1891.
Duff-, D. A., 1895.
Maiden, John W., 1899.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
839
Hamilton, Frederick, 1802.
Fulkerson, Thomas, 1819.
Smith, Parker, 1837-1843.
Trigg, A. B., 1843-1844.
King, Jonathan, 1844-1850.
Edmondson, Andrew, 1851.
Henderson, Robert, 1852-185C.
Campbell, Jas. L. F., ...1852-1860.
Davis, John G. K, 1860.
Duff, W. K., 1862.
Miller, Wm.,
Campbell, D. A. P.,
Barker, William, .
Campbell, D. A. P.,
Hendricks, Thos. P.,
Keller, C. F.,
Keller, C. F.,
Keller, C. F.,
Roberts, John, ....
Roberts, John, ....
.1864.
.1865.
.1869.
.1870.
.1875.
.1883.
.1887.
.1891.
.1895.
.1899.
Surveyors of Augusta Couis^ty, 1745-1770.
Lewis, Thos.
Deputy Surveyors.
Buchanan, John. Walker, Thomas, 1752.
Botetourt County, 1770-1773.
Preston, William, 1773.
Deputy Surveyors.
Trimble, James, 1770. May, Robert, 1771.
Smith, Francis, 1771. Lewis, Samuel, 1772.
FiNCASTLE County, 1773-1776.
(Preston, William, 1773.
Deputy Surveyors.
Floyd, John, 1774. Russell, Wm., 1774.
Preston, Robert, 1774.
Washington County.
Surveyors.
1779. Latham, Edward,
Preston, Robert,
Black, James C,
Bradley, John L.,
Buchanan, R. G.,
Buchanan, R. G.,
Craig, Robert, . .
Orr, James, ....
Buchanan, Benj.
Maxwell, Alex. C
Jones, A. M., . . .
K.,
..1852. McQuown, Isaac A., .
..1883. McQuown, Isaac A., ..,
. . 1887. Gobble, E. L.,
..1896. Cumbow, Anderson H.,
Coroners.
. . 1780. Lewis, Aaron,
Gibson, C. C,
Graham, William, . . . .
Barr, John W.,
.1845.
,1844.
, 1865.
,1889.
.1831.
.1862.
.1883.
.1895.
.1899.
,1780.
,1842.
,1852.
,1875.
Washington County Supervisors, 1870-1904.
Supervisors Abingdon District.
Greenway, Jas. C, 1870-1873.
Campbell, Jas. C, 1873-1875.
Kreger, John G., 1875-1879.
Preston, Robert A., 1879-1891.
Fugate, Henley, 1891-1893.
Gray, Robert H., 1893-
Rush, Robert W., 1897-
Hope, Thomas A., 1899-
Hayter, James C, 1901-
1897.
1899.
1901.
1904.
840
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
Counts, James M.,
Price, James T., . .
Butt, James H., • •
Stanfield, John C,
Supervisors North Fork District.
Mallicote, Jasper N., . . . .1870-1873. Counts, L. H.,
Dickenson, Mongle, 1873-1874.
Mallicote, Jasper N., 1874-1875
Roberts, John, 1875-1871J
Price. James T., 1879-1883
Stanfield, John C, 1883-1887.
Supervisors Glade Spring District.
Porterfield, James C, ...1870-1873. Buchanan, James S.,
Crow, James, 1873-1877. Porterfield, J. C, ..
Porterfield, James C, . . . . 1877-1887. Stuart, George,
Allison, Robert C, 1887-1889. Williams, Joseph D.,
Supervisors Saltville District.
Kelly, Jonas S., 1870-1883. Talbert, Andrew J.,
Kelly, James, 1883-1885.
Kelly, Jonas S., 1885-1887.
Davenport, Solomon R., . .1887-1889.
Kelly, Jonas S., 1889-1891.
Supervisors Goodson District.
Davis, John M., 1870-1872. Rader, W. A.,
Preston, Francis, 1872-1874.
Johnson, Walter, 1874-1879.
Rader, W. A., 1879-1881.
Preston, Jam'es B., 1881-1885.
King, James A., 1885-1887.
.1887-1889.
.1889-1891.
.1891-1895.
.1895-1897.
.1897-1904.
Litton, L. R.,
Davenport, R. H.,
Henderson, W. F. (died),
Litton, L. R. (appointed),
Berry, David L., . . .
Rhea, Edward R., .
Berry, David L., . . .
Campbell, John W.,
Susong, J. 0.,
Supervisors Kinderliook District.
Holly, Henrj' C, 1870-1871.
Vance, Emmet B., 1871-1872.
Barker, Joseph H., 1872 .
Pettyjohn, G. W. (ap't'd), 1872-1875.
Price, Daniel E., 1875-1879.
Cook, L. C, 1879-1881.
Withers, S. M., 1881-1883.
Barb, Lacy J., 1883-1885.
Price, Daniel E., 1885-1887.
Johnson, Jacob H.,
Hilliard, R. A., . .
Sharrett, Wm. R.,
Snodgrass, L. H.,
Barker, A. F., ...
Fleenor, W. M., . .
Dye, Creed F., ..
Ellington, J. E., .
.1889-1891.
,1891-1895.
.1895-1901.
.1901-1904.
.1891-1895.
.1895-1899.
.1899-1901.
1901-1902.
1902-1904.
.1887-1891.
.1891-1895.
,1895-1897.
.1897-1899.
.1899-1901.
.1901-1904.
.1887-1889.
.1889-1891.
.1891-1893.
.1893-1895.
.1895-1897.
.1897-1899.
.1899-1901.
.1901-1904.
Supervisors Holston District.
Crow, James, 1877-1883.
Rosenbalm, Joel, 1883-1885.
Smith, John B., 1885-1887.
Widener, Wm. M., 1887-1891.
Hawthorne, B. D.,
Preston, R. B., . . .
Widener, Wm. M.,
Preston, R. B., . . .
1891-1895.
,1895-1897.
1897-1899.
,1899-1904.
Constables on Holston.
1755. George Stalnaker appointed Constable on Holston river.
Botetourt County, 1770-1773.
Stem, Frederick. Davis, Robert.
Prewitt, William. Lester, John.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
841
FiNCASTLE County, 1773-1776.
David Beattie, from Kincannon's to Bryan's Fort.
James Bryan, from his fort to Black's Fort.
Andrew Colvill, from Black's Fort to ford of Beaver Creek.
John Carmack, from Beaver Creek to Bledsoe's Fort.
'?>— David Steel, from Bledsoe's Fort to Meeting House.
John Adair, from Meeting House to Amos Eaton's.
Samuel Simpson, on Holston.
Samuel Wilson.
John Upton.
1773. John Crow, on upper part of Holston.
1773. Thomas Byrd, on upper part Holston.
1773. Samuel Simpson, from Eleven-Mile Creek to Spring Creek and across
the Holston waters.
1773. Samuel Wilson, from Spring Creek to Steel's Creek and across the
Holston waters.
1773. From Steel's Creek to county line and across the Holston waters.
1773. Robert Williams, on Holston in place Samuel Wilson.
1773. Jacob Stems, on Holston in place of Thomas Byrd.
1774. Samuel White, in place of Jacob Sterns.
1775. Rich Humphreys, in Capt. Wni. Campbell's company.
Washington County, 1777-178-1.
Able, Jeremiah.
Alley, James.
Acklin, Christopher.
Anderson, William.
Allen, Christopher.
Brown, Robert.
Brooks, Castleton.
Berry, George.
Berry, John.
Bailey, Stephen.
Breding, John.
Chambers, Mark.
Craig, John.
Cole, Sampson.
Crunk, Wm.
Duncan, Rawley.
Davidson, Joseph.
Doran, Alexander.
Dorton, Wm.
Duncan, John.
Edmiston, Thomas.
Ellis, Wm.
Constables.
Evans, Joseph.
Evans, Samuel.
Funkhouser, John.
Fain, John.
Fullen, James.
Graham, John.
Gibson, Samuel.
Hicks, William.
Hazel, Daniel.
Holt, Sebastian.
Hall, Jesse.
Higganbothan, Moses,
Keewood, John.
Laughlin, James.
Lean, William.
Lindsay, Isaac.
Laird, James.
Loveless, John.
McClung, Francis.
Moore, Richard.
McCulloch, Robert.
McCauley, James.
Maxwell, John.
Musick, Jonathan.
Oney, Richard.
Osborne, John.
Owen, John.
Patterson, Wm.
Price, Richard.
Robinson, Wm.
Rogers, John.
Rowan, Isaac.
Steel, James. —
Sharp, John.
Snodgrass, Joseph.
Scott, Wm.
Teeter, John.
Vanhook, Samuel.
Vance, John.
Wharton, James.
Williams, Robert.
Whisinhunt, John.
Woolisey, Richard.
842 Southircst Vrrginia, 1746-17S6.
ROADS.
Overseers AxM) Sukveyoks Augusta County, 1853.
Mar. 23, John Lowry, Appointed surveyors to open a road from
Henry Holston. John's Creek over the mountain the nearest
and best way.
Botetourt County, 1770-1773.
June 12, 1770. Arthur Campbell, from State line to Royal Oak.
June 12, 1770. James Davis, from Royal Oak to his home.
June 12, 1770. Richard Higginson.
Mar. 13, 1770. Francis Kincannon, from Stalnaker's to Eleven-Mile Creek.
Mar. 13, 1770. Tliomas Ramsey, from Eleven-Mile Creek to Beaver Creek.
Mar. 13, 1770. David Looney, from Beaver Creek to Fall Creek.
Jan. 6, 1773. Andrew Colvill, from Eighteen-Mile Creek to Beaver Creek.
Jan. 6, 1773. Stephen Jordan, from Beaver Creek to Steel's Creek.
Jan. 6, 1773. David Steel, from Steel's Creek to Muddy Creek. — --
Jan. 6, 1773. Moses Looney, from Muddy Creek to county line.
Mar. 2, 1774. Michael Cregor, from S. F. Reed Creek to crossing below
Jacob Catherine's.
Sept. 7, 1773. Roger Topp, on Holston in place of Stephen Jordan's.
FiNCASTLE County, 1773-1777.
Jau. 5, 1773. Arthur Bowen, from Seven-Mile Ford to lower end Royal
Oak.
Jan. 5, 1773. John Hay, from lower end of Royal Oak to Alex. Wiley's.
Jan. 5, 1773. Alex. Wiley, from his home to Wm. Davis'.
Jan. 5, 1773. Wm. Davis, from his house to South Fork Reedy Creek.
Jan. 5, 1773. James I'inley, from Wm. Davis' to McCall's place.
July 6, 1773. James Smith, from Castlewoods to Elk Garden.
July 6, 1773. David Cowan, from Castlewoods to Elk Garden.
July 6, 1773. Wm. Crabtree, from Town House to Big Lick.
July 6, 1773. Peter Lee, from Big Lick to Clinch Mountain.
July 6, 1773. William Campbell, from Seven-Mile Ford to Big Spring.
July 6, 1773. Wm. Edmiston, from Big Spring to James Kincannon's.
July 6, 1773. Jas. Bryan, from Kincannon's to Eighteen-Mile Creek.
July 6, 1773. Jas. Montgomery, from Eleven-Mile Creek to his home.
July 6, 1773. James Young, from thence to Isaac Riddle's.
July 6, 1773. Isaac Riddle's, from thence to ford of Holston.
Sept. 7, 1773. John Reed, from Eighteen-Mile Creek to John McKinley's.
Aug. 3, 1774. John Shelby, from Watauga road in room of Isaac Riddle.
Sept. 3, 1776. Wm. Calhoun, from Wylie's Ford to Mill Creek, at Royal
Oak.
Sept. 3, 1776. Andrew Bowen, from Royal Oak to Seven-Mile Ford.
Sept. 3, 1776. William Story, from Seven-Mile Ford to Grayson Spring.3.
Sept. 3, 1776. Geo. Adams, from Grayson Springs to James Kincannon's.
Sept. 3, 1776. David Beattie, from Kincannon's to Bryan's Fort.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 843
Sept. 3, 1776. James Bryan, from Bryan's Fort to Black's Fort.
Sept. 3, 1776. Andrew Colvill, from Black's Fort to Beaver Creek.
Sept. 3, 1776. John Carmaek, from Beaver Creek to Major Bledsoe's.
Sept. 3, 1776. David Steel, from Bledsoe's to the Meeting House.
Sept. 3, 1776. John Adair, from Meeting House to Amos Eaton's.
Washington County, 1777-1784.
Anderson, Jacob.
Allison, Charles.
Ayliott, James.
Anderson, Benjamin.
Bryan, James.
Berry, Thomas.
Berry, James.
Beattie, Wm.
Bates, Joseph.
Beattie, John.
Bowen, Wm.
Baylor, John.
Barnett, Alexander.
Buchanan, George.
Bates, Wm.
Bowen, Chas.
Breckenridge, Alex.
Bowles, John.
Buchanan, Samuel.
Berry, John.
Bradley, John.
Colvill, Andrew.
Cox, John.
Craig, Robert.
Craig, David.
Carmaek, Cornelius.
Cole, Hugh.
Clark, George.
Carter, Thomas.
Campbell, Robert.
Cunningham, Jonath.
Caldwell, Thomas.
Doolan, James.
Dorton, Wm.
Davis, Andrew.
Davis, John.
Doran, James.
Eaton, Amos.
Edmiston, Robert.
Edmiston, John.
Elliott, Wm.
Evans, Andrew.
Fowler, James.
Fulton, Thomas.
Funkhouser, John.
Fowler, John.
Finley, George.
Farris, Isaac.
Gray, Benj.
Gray, Joseph.
Gamble, Josiah.
Galbrath, Arthur.
Gamble, James.
Gilmore, Wm.
Griever, Philip.
Halbard, Wm.
Hay, John.
Halfacre, Michael.
Helter, Abraham.
Holland, Wm.
Heard, Joseph.
Hobbis, Thomas.
Hope, Adam.
Johnston, Cui'tis.
Kincannon, Andrew.
Kinkead, John.
Keewood, John.
Keewood, Stephen.
Lewis, Aaron.
Laughlin, Alexander
Linder, Anthony.
Montgomery, Wm.
Mahon, David.
McElwee, James.
McMillian, Wm.
Markland, Wm.
Oglesby, Elisha.
Outlaw, Alexander.
Piper, James.
Robinson, Wm.
Rice, Heniy.
Rosebrough, Wm.
Ramey, Daniel.
^Steel, David. —
Sharp, John.
Snoddy, John.
Scott, Wm.
Sproles, James.
Smith, Wm.
Smith, Thomas.
Scott, Archibald.
Smith, John.
Topp, Roger.
Tewell, Obadiah.
Teat, Robert.
Tate, Wm.
Tate, Thomas.
Vance, Alexander.
Vanhook, Aaron.
Wylie, Alexander.
Whitney, Francis.
White, Solomon.
Willoughby, Andrew.
Walker, Wm.
Wheeler, James.
Wood, Jonathan.
Young, Daniel.
844
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
MINISTERS OF THE IVIETHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
Cunnin<rham, Oscar F., 1837.
Rogers. Rui=isell B., 1839.
CrisTOond, John M., 1840.
Harris, John E., 1840.
Cunningham, B. K., 1843.
•Wiley, E. E., 1845.
•Burnett, Jackson S., 1845.
Brooks, Archibald T., 1847.
?Hickey, Rufus M., 1851.
•Wexler, Edwin P., 1853.
•Dickey, James M., 1856.
•Davis, James A., 1857.
Stewart, A. D., 1861.
•Keys, James, 1862.
Fraley, Francis A., 1863.
•Harris, W. A., 1863.
Andrews, G. C, 1867.
McCulloch, J. L., 1870.
Gobble, Jonathan, 1871.
Polk, James K., 1872.
•Atkins, Daniel H., 1874.
Smith, Robert E., 1875.
Cunningham, John R., 1877.
•Hoss, E. E., 1879.
Wright, Thomas, 1879.
Bowman, Uriah, 1879.
Bean, John M., 1880.
•Blake, Eugene, 1880.
•Leith, W. H., 1882.
Dyer, M. A., 1884.
Henderson, W. H., 1886.
Todd, I. N., 1886.
•Munsey, I. N., 1887.
•Neal, T. G., 1889.
•Stradley, Charles L., 1891.
•Fisher, C. C, 1893.
Barker, C. H., 1896.
Page, Gabriel F., 1837.
Kelly, John M., 1840.
Ingle, Willis, 1840.
Atkins, James, 1843.
Alexander, G. W., 1843.
Gibson, John D., 1845.
•Longley, Edmund, 1847.
•Cunningham, Wm. G. E., 1849.
•Huffaker, Jas. U. S., 1852.
•McTeer, John M., 1853.
•Bates, Wm. H., 1857.
*Stringfield, J. K., I860.
•Munsey, Wm. E., 1861.
•Smith, Tobias F., 1863.
•Price, R. N., 1863.
Crumly, T. D., 1867.
Leonard, Wilson, 1868.
Davenport, David, 1870.
Tippens, Hemy, 1872.
Ingle, A. H., 1873.
Holt, J. H., 1875.
Rider, Wm., 1877.
•AtKins, James, 1878.
Jordan, J. T., 1879.
•Maiden, Geo. A., 1879.
Pippin, L K, 1879.
Grace, John E., 1880.
Crumly, T. J., 1882.
Johnston, G. F., 1883.
•Mort, E. W., 1885.
Kilgore, J. E., 1886.
Buekner, R. J., 1887.
•Garden, W. C, 1888.
•Maiden, J. M., 1890.
•Chambers, J. R., 1892.
•Barker, S. N., 1894.
Dye, A. v., 1895.
Presbyterian Ministers.
Cummings, Charles, 1781.
Craighead, Thos. Brown, 1782.
Taylor, Albert G., 1844.
Morrison, Levi R., 1847.
Hodge, Samuel, 1854.
Caldwell, Geo. E., 1865.
Sullivan, John 0., 1876.
Rogers, J. W., 1881.
Brooks, Ebenezer, 1781.
McEwen, Alexander, 1819.
McChain, James, 1844.
King, John R., 1848.
*Methodist Episcopal, South.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
845
Blackburn, Andrew, 1857. Briscoe, J. P., ..
Carson, James C, 1872. Henderlite, R. E.,
Protestant Episcopal.
..1878.
..1896.
McCabe, James D., 184G.
Mobray, Wm., 1861.
Mickle, John B., 1868.
McNabb, John, 1876.
Sykes, J. W., 188.5.
Lee, Henry T., 1854.
Ingle, Edward A., 1864.
Brooks, Pendleton, 1871.
Funstan, James B., 1882.
Lawton, John W.,
Cosby, Lewis F., .
Woods, James M.,
Butt, Thomas, . . .
Wilkinson, J. P., .
Dameron, H. C, . .
Methodist Protestant Ministers.
. 1837. Roberts, Zeb C, 1897.
. 1833. Stinson, Mandird, 1840.
. 1842. Rhor, Philip, 1841.
. 1849. Barr, Getf. R., 1842.
. 1878. Butt, Henry C, 1870.
. 1881. Musick, A. C, 1880.
Christian Ministers.
Buck, David M., 1849.
Milliard, Samuel H., 1853.
Lindsay, F. E. C, 1865.
Pendleton, W. J., 1875.
Baptist
Burgess, Timothy, 1781 .
Cockrell, Simon, 1782.
Senter, Drury, 1819.
Countiiss, John, 1843.
Patterson, Andrew, 1844.
Baker, Shei-wood M., M. B., . .1854.
Lindsay, C. E. W., 1857.
White, B. F., M. B., 1865.
Phelps, John, 1866.
Spiller, Richard, 1874.
Buck, E. C, 1875.
Mason, H. B., 1879.
Ross, J. H., 1881.
Richards, J. C, 18SG.
Bellamy, H. W., 1888.
Upchurch, M. B., 1888.
Petty, Thomas H., 1888.
Jones, E. D., 1892.
Cox, Jesse H., 1892.
Manual, W. F., 1896.
Baldwin, Noah C, .
Woolsey, Thomas, 1781.
Frost, John, 1784.
Barker, Joseph, 1840.
Gobble, John, 1851.
Metcalf, S. P., 1863.
Foster, John W., 1865.
Ministers.
Davenport, Julius T., 1844
Cole, Uriah, 1850
Speer, James 0., 1857
Wharton, Morton B., M. B., ... 1862
Fleenor, Wm. F., 1866
Talbert, James G., 1872,
Armsted, J. M., 1875
Taylor, Henry, 1877
Smith, David, 1880
Hanner, James R., 1882
Thomas, W. J., 1888
Thomas, John F., 1888
Thomas, J. W., 1888
Morris, J. M., 1890
Fullen, John W., . 1892
Edmondson, T. F., 1894
Henderson, W. T., 1898
Colley, Thomas W.,
Buck, D. T., Church of Dis., . . . 1880
Masters, J. W., 1883
Buck, C. S., 1884
Hapgood, Josephus, 1882
Barnett, Wm., 1884
Howington, W. M., 1884
846
Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
Missionary Baptist Ministers.
Edmondson, Elijah, 1850. Maiden, Henry A., 1871,
Little, L. H., 1884. Little, Branson, 1888.
Church of Christ Ministers.
Gentry, E. B., 1895. Chapman, J. W., 1895.
Campbell, J. A., 189;).
Handier, Wm.
Lutheran Ministers.
1839. Brown, Abel J., 1852.
Universalist Ministers.
Chambers, Wm. R., .' 1848.
Reformer Ministers. •
Snyder, Jacob, regular, 1783.
Catholic Ministers.
Silvian, Wm., 1871. Murray, John, 1882.
Oliver, Emile, 1890.
Burke, P. F., 1897.
Toner, George H., 1895.
The following is a complete table of the candidates for President of the
United States from the formation of our government to date, with the name
of the party to which they were attached:
Partv.
Year.
No party 1789.
Federalist 1792.
Federalist 1796 .
Republican 1796.
Republican 1800 .
Federalist 1800.
Republican 1804 .
Federalist 1804.
Republican 1808 .
Federalist 1808.
Republican 1808 .
Republican 1812 .
Federalist 1812.
Republican 1816 .
Feueralist 1816 .
Republican 1820 .
Opposition 1820 .
Republican 1824 .
Coalition 1824 .
Republican 1824 .
Republican 1824 .
Candidates.
.George Washington ... No opposition.
• George Washington. . .No opposition.
. John Adams Elected.
. Thomas Jefferson Defeated.
. Thomas Jefferson Elected.
? John Adams Defeated.
. Thomas Jefferson Elected.
. Charles C. Pinckney Defeated.
• James Madison Elected.
• Charles C. Pinckney Defeated.
• George Clinton Defeated.
• James Madison Elected.
• DeWitt Clinton Defeated.
• James Monroe Elected.
. Ruf uis King Defeated.
• James Monroe Elected.
• John Q. Adams Defeated.
. Andrew Jackson No election.
? John Q. Adams No election.
.William 'II. Crawford ...No election.
• Henry Clay No election.
Washington CounUj, 1777-1870.
847
The popular election not resulting in any candidate having a majority
of the electoral vote, the election devolved upon the House of Representa-
tives. Adams was elected on the tirst ballot, receiving the votes of thirteen
States; Jackson, seven, and Crawford, four States.
Party. Year. Candidates.
Democratic 1828 . . . .Andrew Jackson Elected.
National Republican 1828 . . . .John Q. Adams Defeated.
This is the first election at wnich the party name Democrat was used.
Previous to that date the party was called Republican and the opposition
Federalists.
Party. Year.
Democratic 1832 . .
Republican 1832 . .
1832..
Anti-Masonic 1832 . .
Democratic 1836. .
Whig 1836..
Whig ". 1836..
Whig 1836..
Whig 1836..
Whig 1840..
Democratic 1840 . .
Liberty 1840..
Democratic 1844 . .
Whig 1844..
Liberty 1844 . .
Whig 1848..
Democratic 1848 . .
Free Soil 1848..
Democratic 1852 . .
Whig 1852..
Free Democratic 1852. .
Democratic 1856 . .
Republican 1856 . .
American 1856 . .
Candidates.
. .Andrew Jackson Elected.
. . Henry Clay Defeated.
. . John Floyd Defeated.
. .William Wirt Defeated.
. . Martin Van Buren Elected.
. .William Henry Harrison . . Defeated.
. .Hugh L. Wiiii^e Defeated.
. Daniel Webster Defeated.
. . W. R. Margerum Defeated.
. .W. H. Harrison Elected.
. .Martin Van Buren Defeated.
. .James G. Birney Defeated.
. .James K. Polk Elected.
. . Henry Clay Defeated.
. . James G. Birney Defeated.
• . Zachary Taylor Elected.
. . Lewis Cass Defeated.
. Martin Van Buren Defeated.
• . Franklin Pierce p]lected.
. . Winfield Scott Defeated.
. .John P. Hale Defeated.
• ? James Buchanan Elected.
. John C. Fremont Defeated.
. . Millard Filmore Defeated.
This was the first appearance of the present Republican party in the field
of national politics. Their National Convention was held in Philadelphia.
Party. Year.
Republican 1860 . .
Democratic 1860 . .
Constitutional Union I860..
Independent Democratic ... I860..
Republican 1864 . .
Democratic 1864 . .
Republican 1868 . . ,
Democratic 1868 . .
Candidates.
Abraham Lincoln Elected.
. J. C. Breckenridge Defeated.
John Bell Defeated.
. Stephen A. Douglas Defeated.
? Abraham Lincoln Elected.
. George B. McClellan Defeated.
.U. S. Grant Elected.
? H. Seymour Defeated.
848
Southwest Virginia, 17J^6-1786.
Party. Year.
Republican 1872 . .
Democratic and Liberty . . 1872 . .
Democratic 1872 . .
Opposition Democratic 1872. .
Temperance 1872 . .
Opposition Democratic .... 1872..
Opposition Democratic .... 1872 . .
Opposition Democratic .... 1872. .
Republican 1876 . .
Democratic 1876 . .
Greenback 1876 . .
Prohibition 1876 . .
Republican 1880..
Democratic 1880 . .
Greenback 1880..
Prohibition 1880. .
American 1880 . .
Democratic 1884 . .
Republican 1884 . .
Prohibition 1884 . .
Greenback 1884 . .
Republican 1888 . .
Democratic 1888 . .
Prohibition 1888. .
Union Labor 1888 . .
American 1888 . .
Union Labor 1888 . .
Equal Rights 1888 . .
Industrial Reform 1888 . .
Democratic 1892 . .
Republican 1892 . .
People's 1892. .
Prohibition 1892. .
Socialist Labor 1892 . .
Republican 1896 . .
Democratic 1896 . .
Prohibition 1896 . .
People's 1896. .
Socialist Labor 1896. .
National 1896..
National Democrat 1896 . .
Candidates.
. U. S. Grant Elected.
. H. Greeley Defeated.
. Chas. O'Connor Defeated.
.Ihos. A. Hendricks Defeated.
. James Black Defeated.
. B. Gratz Brown Defeated.
. C. J. Jenkins Defeated.
. David Davis Defeated.
. R. B. Hayes Elected.
. S. J. Tilden Defeated.
? Peter Cooper Defeated.
. G. Clay Smith Defeated.
. James A. Garfield Elected.
. W. S. Hancock Defeated.
• J. B. Weaver Defeated.
. Neal Dow Defeated.
.John W. Phelp% Defeated.
. Grover Cleveland Elected.
. J ames G. Blaine Defeated.
.J. P. St. John . Defeated.
.B. F. Butler Defeated.
. Benjamin Harrison Elected.
. Grover Clevel nd Defeated.
• C. B. Fisk Defeated.
. A. J. Streeter Defeated.
.J. L. Curtis Defeated.
. R. H. Cowdrey Defeated.
. Belva Lockwood Defeated.
. A. E. Redstone Defeated.
? Grover Cleveland Elected.
. Benjamin Harrison Defeated.
.J. B. Weaver Defeated.
. J. Bidwell Defeated.
. Simon Wing Defeated.
. William McKinley Elected.
. William J. Bryan Defeated.
• J. Levering Defeated.
. W. J. Bryan Defeated.
. C. B. Matchett Defeated.
. C. E. Bentley Defeated.
. J. M. Palmer Defeated.
The Vice-President has succeeded the President on five occasions, by reason
of the President's death in each case. Tyler succeeded Harrison in 1841;
Fihnore, Taylor in 1850; Johnson, Lincoln in 1865; Arthur, Garfield in
1881, and Roosevelt, McKinley in 1901.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 849
LIST OF VICE-PRESIDENTS.
Name. State. Political Party. Qualified.
John Adams Mass Federalist June 3, 1789.
John Adams Mass Federalist Dec. 2, 1793.
Tliomas Jefferson Va Dem.-Republican .... March 4, 1797.
Aaron Burr N. Y Dem.-Republican .... March 4, 1801.
George Clinton N. Y Dem.-Republican ... March 4, 1805.
George Clinton N. Y Dem.-Republican .... March 4, 1809.
Elbridge Gerry Mass Dem.-Republican March 4, 1813.
Daniel D. Tompkins N. Y Dem.-Republican .... March 4, 1817.
Daniel D. Tompkins N. Y Denr.-Republican .... March 5, 1821.
John C. Calhoun S. C Dem.-Republican .... March 4, 1825.
John C. Calhoun S. C Dem.-Republican March 4, 1829.
Martin Van Buren N. Y Democratic March 4, 1833.
Richard M. Johnison Ken Democratic March 4, 1837.
John Tyler Va Elected by Whigs . . March 4, 1841.
George M. Dallas, Penn Democratic March 4, 1845.
Millard Filmore N. Y Whig March 4, 1849.
Wm. R. King Ala Democratic March 4, 1853.
John C. Breckenridge Ky Democratic March 4, 1857.
Hannibal Hamlin Maine. . . .Republican March 4, 1861.
Andrew Johnson Tenn Republican March 4, 1865.
Schuyler Colfax Ind Republican March 4, 1869.
Henry Wilson Mass Republican March 4, 1873.
Wm. A. Wheeler N. Y Republican March 5, 1877.
Chester A. Arthur N. Y Republican March 4, 1881.
Thomas A. Hendricks Ind Democratic March 4, 1885.
Levi P. Morton N. Y Republican March 4, 1889.
Adlai E. Stevenson Ill Democratic March 4, 1893.
Garrett A. Hobart N. J Republican March 4, 1897.
SUPREME COURT, CHIEF JUSTICES AND ASSOCIATE JUSTICES.
Chief Justices. Associate Justices. State. Term of Service.
John Jay N. Y 1789 to 1795.
John Rutledge S. C 1789. Declined.
William Gushing Mas.s 1789 to 1810.
Robert H. Harrison ? Maryland 1789 to 1790.
James Wilson Pa 1789 to 1798.
John Blair Va 1789 to 1796.
James Iredell N. C .1790 to 1799.
Thomas Johnson Maryland 1791 to 1793.
William Paterson N. J 1793 to 1806.
John Rutledge. . . (Not confirmed.) S. C 1795 to 1795.
William Gushing Mass 1796. Declined.
Samuel Chase Maryland 1796 to 1811.
Oliver Elsworth Conn 1796 to 1800.
Bushrod Washington . . Va 1798 to 1829.
Alfreu Moore N. C 1799 to 1804.
850 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Chief Justices. Associate Justices. State. Term of Service.
Jolin Jay N. Y 1800. Declined.
John Marshall Va 1801 to 1835.
William Johnson . . . . S. C 1804 to 1834.
Brockholst Livingston, N. Y 1807 to 1823.
Thomas Todd Ky 1807 to 1826.
Levi Lincoln Mass 1811. Declined.
John Quincy Adams .Mass 1811. Declined.
Joseph Ston- Mass 1811 to 1845.
Gabriel Duvall . Marj-land 1811 to 1835.
Smith Thompson N. Y 1823 to 1843.
Robert Trimble Ky 1826 to 1828.
John McLean Ohio 1829 to 1861.
Henry Baldwin Fa 1830 to 1844.
James M. Wayne Ga 1835 to 1867.
Roger B. Taney . . .* Maryland 1836 to 1864.
Philip P. Barbour Va 1836 to 1841.
William Smith Ala 1837. Declined.
John Catron Tenn 1837 to 1865.
John McKinley Ala 1837 to 1852.
Peter V. Daniel V^a 1841 to 1S60.
Samuel Nelson N. Y 1845 to 1872.
Levi Woodbury M. H 1845 to 1851.
Robert C. Grier Pa 1846 to 1870.
Benjamin R. Curtis . .Mass 1851 to 1857.
John A. Campbell . . . .Ala 1853 to 1861.
Nathan Clifliord Maine 1858 to 1881.
Noah H. Swayne Ohio 1862 to 1881.
Samuel F. Miller Iowa 1862 to 1890.
David Davis Ill 1862 to 1877.
Stephen J. Field Cal 1863 to 1897.
Salmon P. Chase Ohio 1864 to 1873.
"Edwin U. Stanton . . Pa 1869.
William Strong Pa 1870 to 1880.
Joseph P. Bradley . . .N. J 1870 to 1892.
Ward Hunt N. Y 1872 to 1886.
Morrison R. Waite Ohio 1874 to 1887.
John M. Harlan Ky 1877 to .
William B. Woods . . .Ga 1880 to 1887.
Stanley Matthews Ohio 1881 to 1889.
Horace Gray Mass 1881 to 1902.
Samuel Blatchford ...N. Y ..1882 to 1893.
Lucius Q. C. Lamar . .Miss 1888 to 1893.
MelviTle W. Fuller Ill , . . 1888 to .
David J. Brewer . . . Kan 1889 to .
Henry B. Brown Mich. 1891 to .
George Shiras, Jr. ... Pa 1892 to .
Howell E. Jackson . . .Tenn 1893 to 1895.
Edward D. White La 1894 to .
Joseph McKenna Cal. 1898 to .
* Died bpfore his commission took eflect.
Washington County^ 1777-1S70. 851
CENSUS OF VIRGINIA— 1900.
Total i)oi3ulation of Virginia classified by color, age and literacy, 1900:
White Popuxation.
Total white 1,192,855
White males over twenty-one years 301,379
White males under twenty-one years 300,617
White females over twenty-one years 297,292
White females under twenty-one years 293,567
Total wiiue literate 1,094,695
White illiterate 98,160
Total white population over twenty-one years, 598,671
Total white under twenty-one years 594,184
Colored Population.
Total colored 660,722
Colored males over twenty-one years 146,122
Colored males under twenty-one years 177,337
Colored females over twenty-one years 155,306
Colored females under twenty-one years .... 181,957
Colored literate 446,886
Colored illiterate 213,836
Total colored over twenty-one years 301,428
Total colored under twenty-one vears 369,294
CENSUS OF WASHINGTON COUNTY— 1790-1900.
1790 5,625 1800 9,530
1810 12,1.56 1820 12.444
1830 15,614 1840 13,001
1850 14,612 1860 16.892
1870 16,816 1880 25,203
1890 26,118 1900 28,995
Bt Districts — 1890-1900. 1900. 1890.
Abingdon district, including Abingdon town 5,569 5,506
Abingdon town 1,306 1,67-4
Glade Spring district, including Glade Spring town 3,490 3,316
Glade Spring town 304 500
Goodson district 4.846 7,456
Holston district 3,593 2,485
Kinderhook district 4,438 3,934
>Jorth Fork district 3.349 3,214
Saltville district, including part of Saltville town 3,710 3,109
Saltville town, part rf 173 •
852 Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Population of Towns and Cities of Washington County— 1900.
Abingdon.
1870 715
1880 1,064
1890 1,674
1900 1,306
Mendota.
1880 112
Glade Spring.
1880 262
1890 500
1900 304
Bristol, Virginia.
1880 1,562
1890 2,902
1900 4,579
Wallaces Switch.
1880 137
1890 407
Mendota, Wallaces Switch and Meadow View are all unincorporated, con-
sequently the population of these places was not returned iseparately in
1900. Meadow View does not appear in any of the census reports.
Population of Several Towns and Counties in Southwest, Va. — 1900.
Gladeville (or Wise) 511 Clinchport 183
Norton 654 Duffield 98
Tacoma 247 Abingdon 1,306
Bond 295 Glade Spring 304
Coeburn 295 Lebanon 335
Big Stone Gap 1,617 Honaker 295
East Stone Gap 349 Saltville 1,051
Gate City 521 Marion 2,045
We give in connection with the above the population of some of our South-
western counties:
Wise 19,653 Dickenson 7,747
Lee 19,853 Russell 18,031
Scott 22,694 Washington 28,995
Buchanan 9,692 Tazewell 24,384
Washington County, 1777-1S70.
853
FIXCASTLE COUNTY.
Militia Officers, 1770-1777.
Lieutenant-Colonel — Wm. Christian.
Lieutenant of Militia — Wm. Inglis, John Byrd.
Lieutenant-Colonel — James Robertson, Wm. Christian.
Major — Walter Crockett.
Daniel Trigg,
Thomas Madison,
Captains.
Joseph Cloyd,
John Tavlor.
Samuel Campbell,
Lieutenants.
William Inglis.
WASHINGTON COUNTY.
Militia Officers, 1777-1780.
1777. County Lieutenant — Arthur Campbell.
Colonel — Evan Shelby.
Lieutenant-Colonel — Wm. Campbell.
Major — Daniel Smith.
1780. Colonel — Wm. Campbell.
Lieutenant-Colonel — Daniel Smith.
Major — Wm. Edmiston.
1781. 1st Battalion: Colonel — Wm. Campbell.
Lieutenant-Colonel — Wm. Edmiston.
Major — Aaron Lewis.
2d Battalion: Colonel— Daniel Smith.
Lieutenant-Colonel — Joseph Martin.
Major — Thomas Mastin.
1782. 1st Battalion: Colonel — Wm. Edmiston.
Lieutenant-Colonel — Aaron Lewis.
Major — James Dysart.
Adams, George.
Anderson, John.
"" Buchanan, Robert, Sr.
Bowen, Wm.
Bowen, Arthur.
Beattie, David.
Barnes, Alexander.
Captains.
Black, Joseph.
Barnett, Alexander.
V Buchanan, Samuel.
Bowen, Robert.
Campbell, John (R.
Christian, Gilbert.
Campbell, John.
0.)
Craig, Robert.
Colvill, Andrew.
Caldwell, Thos.
Cock, Charles.
Cole, Joseph.
Crabtree, Jamea.
Cowan, Andrew.
854
Southwest Virginia. ITJ^G-ITSO.
Cowan, William.
Duiikin, John.
Dysart, James.
Davis, John.
Deniston, Eobert.
Davis, Robert.
Edmiston, Wm.
Tulkerson, James.
Frazier, John.
Fulkerson, Richard.
Head, Wm.
Jamison, John.
Kincannon, Andrew.
Kinkead. John.
Keys, James.
Lewis, Aaron.
Lowry, John. ^-
Lyon, Hnmberson.
Martin, Joseph.
Montgomery, J a m es.
Maistin, Thoma>s.
]\Iaxwell, George.
Xeal. Wm.
Xewell, Samuel.
Robertson, James.
Ritchie, Alexander.
Russell, William.
Snoddy, John.
Shelby, John, Sr.
Shelby, James.
Smith, Heniy.
Trimble, Robert.
Willoughby. Wm.
Anderson, John.
Allison, Chas.
Buchanan, John.
Beattie, David.
Blackburn, Wm.
Berry, John.
Black, Joseph.
Bishop, Levi.
Buckner, Joshua.
Blackmore, Wm.
Boran, Bazil.
Buchanan, Robert.
Bartlett, Wm.
Coulter, John.
Camjjbell, Chas.
Cowan, Wm.
Crawford, Hugh.
Campbell, Patrick.
Campbell, Robert.
Cole, Thomas.
Cowan, Andrew.
Davis, John.
Bickley, Chas.
Berry, Thomas.
Buchanan, Samuel.
Beattie, John.
Barnett, Alexander.
Bowen, Arthur.
Bowen, Rees.
Blackmore, Wm.
Campbell, Robert.
Carpenter, John.
Caiiipbell, Hu^h.
Lieutenants.
Davidson, Wm.
Dickenson, Henry.
Elliott, Jajiies.
Edmiston, Robert.
Freeland, George.
Fulkerson, James.
Frazer, John.
Finley, George.
Fi'azer, Daniel.
Farris, Thomas.
Hays, Samuel.
Huston, James.
Houston, John.
Jamison, John.
Kincannon, Andrew.
Keys, James.
Leeper, James.
Looney, Moses.
Lyon, Humberson.
Lyon, William.
McCulloch, Thomas.
Maxwell, James.
Ensigiis.
Crabtree, James.
Casey, Wm.
Campbell. Patrick.
Crockett, Wm.
Davidson, Daniel.
Dryden, Nathaniel.
Dorton, Wm.
Doran, Alexander.
Davis, Robert.
Davis, John.
Davidson, Wm.
^Maxwell, George.
Montgomery, Alexander.
Newell, Samuel.
Neil, Wm.
Price, Thoma.s.
Pitman, Wm.
Patterson, ^^'m.
Perrin, Joseph.
Rosebrougli, Wm.
Robinson, John.
Rucker, Joshua.
Roberts, James.
Renen, James.
Snoddy, John.
Scott, William.
Scott, Archibald.
Scott, Joseph.
Topp, Roger.
Thompson, ^Vm.
Ward, David.
Wylie, Alexander.
Willoughby, Wm.
Dickenson, Henry.
Edmiston, Robert.
Elliott, James.
Goff, Andrew.
Greer, Wm.
Gibson, George.
Henegar, Jacob.
Houston, James.
Henegar, John.
Kennedy, John.
Kincannon, Matthew.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
855
Lowiy, John. ''
Leeper, James.
Lewis, John.
Looney, John.
Litton, Solomon.
McCutcheon, John.
McCutcheon, Wm.
McCutcheon, Samuel.
McClelland, Abraham.
McFerrin, John.
McFarland, Eobert.
Main, Tobias.
Neil, Wm.
Xewland, Isaac.
Roberts, James.
Russell, Robert.
Rhea. Joseph.
Rosebrough, Wm.
Ritchie, Alexander.
Ramsey, Josiah.
Shaw, John.
Steele, John.
Smith, Henry.
Teeter, George.
Vanhook, Samuel.
Vance, James.
Whitten, Thomas.
Young. Wm.
WASHINGTON COUNTY. '
REVOLrXIOXAKY SOLDIERS, 1776-1783.
Allen, Moses.
Alexander, William, King's Mountain.
Alexander, Jeremiah, King'iS Mountain.
Alexander, Olivei", King's Mountain.
Anderson, William, King's Moiuitain.
Anderson, Jacob, King's Mountain.
Anderson, John, King's Mountain.
Buckner, William, Virginia Line.
Burke, .John, First Maryland Regiment and Ninth Virginia Regiment.
Barker, Edmiuid, King's JNIountain, Mrginia Continental.
Barker, Enoch, King's Mountain.
Barker, Charles, King's Mountain.
Barker, Joel, King's Mountain.
Barker, Edward, King's Mountain.
Barker, Henry, King's Mountain.
Blackburn, Arthur, King's Mountain.
Blackburn, .John, King's Mountain.
Blackburn, Joiseph, King's Mountain.
Blackmore, John, King's Mountain.
Blackburn, William, King's Mountain. Killed. Lieutenant.
Bowen, John, King's Mountain. Son of Rees Bowen.
Bowen, William, King's ^Mountain. Captain.
Bowen, Robert, King's Mountain.
Bowen, Henry, King's Mountain.
Bowen, Charles, King's Mountain.
Bowen, Rees, King's Mountain. Killed. Lieutenant. Commanded a com-
pany.
Bowen, Arthur, King's Mountain. Captain.
Browning. Enas, King's Mountain.
Brown, Michael, King's Mountain.
Boran, Bazil, King's Mountain.
856 Southwest Virginia, 171^6-1786.
Brush, Enoch.
Bishop, Levi, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Brown, Low.
Boiling, Jarrett.
Brooks, William.
Beard, Richard, First Virginia Eegiment. Captain Campbell's Company.
Berry, James, King's Mountain.
Berry, Tliomas. Wounded by Indians September 4th, 177G.
Beny, Bradley. Died in service. Fourth Virginia Eegiment. Yellow
Spring, Pa.
Blackmore, William, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Burney, William, King's Mountain.
Seattle, John, King's Mountain. Ensign. Killed.
Beattie, David, King's Mountain. Captain.
Beattie, Francis, King's Mountain.
Beattie, William, King's Mountain.
Bickley, Charles, King's Mountain.
Benning, Benoni, King's Mountain. Wounded three times.
Bullen, William, King's Mountain.
Beane, Robert, King's Mountain.
Buchanan, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Buchanan, Robert, King's Mountain.
Breckenridge, Alex., King's Mountain. Captain Continental Line, Rus-
sell's Regiment.
Breckenridge, George, King's Mountain. Twelve years old.
Breckenridge, John, King's Mountain.
Black, Joseph, King's Mountain.
Barnes, Alexander, King's Mountain. Captain.
Bartlett, William, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Bamett, Alexander, King's Mountain. Captain.
Buchanan, John. Captain Continental Line. Killed 1777.
Bowman, Esaius, King's Mountain.
Craig, Robert, King's Mountain. Captain.
Craig, Robert, Jr., King's Mountain.
Carson, David, King's Mountain.
Craig, James, King's Mountain.
Clark, George, King's Mountain.
Corry, James, King's Mountain. Killed.
Colley, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Campbell, David, King's Mountain.
Cock, James, King's Mountain.
Cock, Charles, King's Mountain.
Campbell, William, Jr., King's Mountain.
Campbell, William, King's Mountain. Colonel.
Crow, James, Iving's Mountain.
Carpenter, John, King's Mountain.
^yaslungton County, 1777-1S70. 857
Craig, John, King's Mountain. Captain.
Craig, David, King's Mountain.
Cusick, John, King's Mountain, ^^"ounded \Yhitsill's Mill.
Colvill, AndreAV, King's Mountain. Captain.
Colvill, Samuel, King's Mountain. Wounded. Died November 20, 1780.
Campbell, Robert, King's Mountain. Wovmded Long Island. Ensign.
Campbell, Hugh, King's Mountain.
Campbell, Patrick, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Cowan, Andrew, King's ^Mountain.
Cowan, William, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Curry, James, King's Mountain.
Cook, Henry, Second Virginia Regiment.
Conn, W. Y., North Carolina Militia.
Cline, Andrew, Virginia Militia.
Crunk, William, King'iS Mountain.
Cole, Hugh. Died in Continental service.
Crawford, John R.
Carmack, William.
Cock, William. Captain battle Long Island Flats.
Carson, John.
Colvitt, Joseph (S. C).
Carswell, Andrew, King's Mountam.
Cole, William.
Cole, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Cole, Joseph, King's Mountain.
Cunningham, William. \
Cunningham, Jonathan.
Cuddy, John.
Cuddy, James.
Campbell, John. Commander of Indian Spick, 1790-1794.
Campbell, John, King's Mountain. Captain.
Crabtree, James, King's Moinitain. Captain.
Crabtree, Jacob.
Cope, John, King's Mountain. Continental Army. Substitute for Mathiak.
Harman.
Caldwell, Thomas, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Casey, William.
Crockett, William.
Crock, William. Ensign. King's Mountain.
Davison, Daniel, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Davison, William, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Davenport, Claiborne, Seventh and Fifth Virginia Regiments.
Doran, Alexander, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Doran, Terance, Ninth and First Virginia Regiments.
Doran, James, King's Mountain.
Dunkin, John. Prisoner in Canada.
858 Southwest Virginia, 1740-17SG.
Dryden, Natliaiiiel, King's Mountain. Killed. Ensign.
Dufl', 8anuiel, King's Mountain.
Diyden, William, King's Mountain.
Dryden, James, King's Mountain.
Dolberry, Lytton. «
Dysart, James, King's Mountain. Captain.
Dickerson, Henry, King's Mountain. Private Captain Colvill's Company.
Dennison, Robert, King's Mountain.
Dorton, William, Jr., King's Mountain.
Davis, John, King's Mountain. Captain.
Davis, Robert, King's Mountain.
Dorton, Moses, King's Mountain. Horse killed Whitsill's Mill.
Douglas, Jonathan, King's Mountain. Wounded accidentally.
Darnel, David, King's Mountain. Wounded.
Duck, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Daviis, Nathaniel, King's Mountain.
Davis, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Douglas, James, King's Mountain.
Dunn, Samuel, Continental Line at Yorktown.
Edmiston, William, King's Mountain. Killed. Captain.
*Edmiston, Robert, Jr., King's Mountain. Killed. Lieutenant.
Edmiston, Andrew, King's Mountain. Killed. Captain.
Estill, Benjamin, King's Mountain.
Eakin, William.
Evans, David, Virginia Line, April 19, 1780.
Evans, Evan, King's Mountain, Guilford Courthouse.
Ely, William, King's Mountain.
Evans, Andrew, King's Mountain.
Evans, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Edmiston, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Edmiston, John, King's Mountain.
England, John, Virginia Continental.
Elder, Robert.
Edmiston, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Edmiston, Robert, King's Mountain.
Edmiston, William, King's Mountain. Major.
Elliott, James. Captain. Killed in service, 1780.
Finley, John. Wounded Long Island Flats.
Fleenor, Michael, Virginia Militia.
Fleenor, Joel, King's Mountain.
Fleenor, Charles, King's Mountain.
Fulkerson, Janles, King's Mountain. Captain.
Fulkerson, Richard, King's Mountain.
Fisher, Frederick, King's Mountain. Wounded.
*Shot by British guard beto. ihe action began.
Washington Couniy, 1717-1870. 859
Fowler, William, King's Mountain. Killed.
Fowler. James. King's Mountain. Noted scout Continental service undsr
Colonel William Eussel, Fort Blair.
Fields, William, Virginia Militia.
Frazer, Daniel, King's Mountain.
Frazer, John, King's Mountain.
Faris, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Francis, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Freeman, William, Virginia Line.
Fletcher, Thomas, King's JNIountain.
Finley, George, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Fork, William, King's Mountain.
Gervis, James, Ninth Virginia Regiment.
Gist, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Gilbert, Samuel.
Gray, Alexander.
Galliher, Joel, King's Mountain. Horse killed in fight.
Gillespie, I'homas, King's Mountain.
Gist, Nathaniel, King's Mountain. Killed.
Given, James, King's Mountain.
Gist, Richard, King's Mountain.
Gibson, John, King's Mountain.
Gibson, George, King's Mountain.
Gibson, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Graham, James, King's Mountain.
Grimes, James, King's Mountain.
Gobble, Christian, Maryland Militia.
Gilliland, James, Virginia Militia, King's Mountain.
Greer, William, King's Mountain.
Grier, John, King's Mountain.
Goff, William, King's Mountain.
Goft, Andrew, King's Mountain. Ensign. V,
Harrell, Reuben, King's Mountain.
Henegar, Henry, King's Mountain. Killed. '
Henegar, Jacob, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Henegar, John, King's Mountain.
Hyce, Leonard, King's Mountain. Wounded.
Hayter, Israel, King's Mountain. Wounded.
Hobbs, Thomas, King's Mountain and Cherokee Expedition. Wounded.
Hamilton, Robert, King's Mountain.
Hemphill, Charles, King's Mountain.
Higganbottom, Robert, King's Mountain.
Hall, Jesise, King's Mountain.
Howard, William, King's Mountain.
Hinds, William, Second Regiment Artiller'
860 Southwest Virginia, 17Jf6-17S6.
Hunsuoker, Abraham, North Carolina Militia.
Humphreys, Robert, Virginia State Line.
Henderson, John, King's Mountain.
Heliot, Solomon, Second Virginia Regiment.
Houston, William, King's Mountain.
Houston, John, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Henry, Robert, King's Mountain.
Hortenstine, Abraham, King's Mountain.
Himt, Zacariah.
Harris, Nathaniel.
Hilliard, James.
Hughes, Peter.
Hillan, James, North Carolina Line, King's Mountain.
Hobbs, Ezekiel.
Hamilton, Alexander.
Hughes, Samuel.
Hamilton, John, Virginia Continental.
Hampton, John.
Hundley, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Hughes, John.
Hamonds, Abraham.
Hensley, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Harkleroad, Henry, King's Mountain.
Hays, Samuel. King's Mountain.
Houston, James, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Johnston, Samuel, King's Mountain. Virginia State troops.
Jamison, John, King's ^Mountain. Lieutenant.
Jenkins, Thomas, King's ^Mountain.
Jenkins, William, King's ]Mountain.
Johnston, Peter, Lee's Legion.
Keeps, James, Sergeant, King's ]Mountain.
Kilgore, Charles, King's Mountain.
Keys, James, King's Mountain. Virginia ^Militia. Lieutenant.
Kincannon, Andrew, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Kincannon, James, King's Mountain.
Kincannon, ]\Latthe\v, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Kendrick, Solomon, King s Mountain.
Kelly, John.
Kennedy, Moses, Virginia Line, April 10, 1780.
Kennedy, Robert. Officer Troop of Horse.
Kennedy, John, King's Mountain.
Kerr, Adam, King's Mountain.
Kinkead, John, King's Molmtain. Captain.
Leonard, Robert, Second Virginia Regiment.
Washington County, 1777-1S70. 861
Leonard, Henry, Second Virginia Regiment.
Lewis, Aaron, King's Mountain.
Luisk, William, King's Mountain.
Low, Henry, Fifth Marj-land Regiment, 1776 and war 18r2-'14.
Litton, Solomon. Prisoner in Canada. Second Lieutenant.
Litton, John, King's Mountain.
Leckie, William, Virginia Militia.
Logan, James, King's Mountain.
Laird, John, King's Mountain. Color Sergeant. Killed.
Laird, James, King's Mountain. Killed.
Laird, David, King's Mountain.
Leonard, Cleorge, King's Mountain.
Lynn, Adam, King's Moimtain.
Lindsay, John.
Lyon, Humberson, King's Mountain. Lieutenant. Killed.
Leonard, Frederick, King's Mountain.
Lawson, William, King's Mountain.
Lewis, John, King's Mountain.
Loyd, John, King's Mountain and Virginia ]\Iilitia. ' ^.-
Lowry, William, King's Mountain. .^ '
Long, William, King's Mountain.
Lowry, John, King's Mountain. Second Lieutenant.
Latham, John, King's Mountain.
Leeper, James, King's Mountain. Second Lieutenant.
Looney, Moses, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Looney, John, King's Mountain.
Lyon, William, King's Mountain.
Looney, Robert, King's Moimtain. Ensign.
Livingston, David, King's Mountain.
Moore, Arthur.
Main, Tobias, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Maxwell, Nathaniel, Pennsylvania Militia.
Moss, Matthew.
McKinley, John.
McCulloeh, Thomas, King's Mountain. Killed. Lieutenant. Commanded
part of a company.
MeCulloch, Robert, King's Mountain. Wounded.
Montgomery, Richard, King's Mountain. Virginia Militia.
Montgomery, Robert, King's Mountain.
McLain, Thomas.
Morgan, Robert.
Murdock, John, Virginia Line.
McCauley, John, Virginia Line.
McGhee, Thomas.
Mills, Francis, Virginia Line.
Maripn, Samuel.
862 Southwest Yirf/inla. 17J,G-17S6.
Morgan, Thomas. Disabled in service, May 20, 1770.
McXutt, Alexander, King's Mountain.
Muaser, John.
MeGochlin, John.
Mobley, Francis.
Miller, John.
McCulloch, Jolm, King's Mountain. Virginia ^lilitia.
McConnell, Abram, King's Mountain.
McGlochlin, Charles.
Moore, William, King's Mountain. Lost right leg; wounded left arm.
Maxwell, Thomas, King's Mountain.
McCroskey, John, King's Mountain. Private Captain William Beatie's
Company.
Martin, William, King's Mountain.
Mc]\Iillen, Alexander, King's INIonntain, Whitsell's Mill.
McClelland, Abraham, King's Mountain.
McFerrin, John, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Montgomery, Alexander, King's Mountain. Saddle lost in fight.
McDonald, Magnus, King's Mountain. North Carolina Militia.
McMillan, William, King's Mountain.
McHenry, John, King's Mountain.
McCutcheon, William, King's Mountain.
McFarland, Eobert, King's Mountain.
Maxwell, George, King's Mountain. Captain.
Maxwell, James, King's Mountain.
McCutcheon, John, King's Mountain.
McCutcheon, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Neely, Robert.
Newell, Samuel, Sr., King's Mountain.
Newell, Samuel, King's Mountain. Second Lieutenant.
Neil, William, King's Mountain. Captain.
Newland, Isaac. Ensign.
Oney, Joseph.
Outlaw, Alexander, King's Mountain.
Owens, Robert, King's Mountain.
Pirtle, George, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Pitman, William, King's Mountain.
Perrin, Joseph, King's Mountain.
Preston, Robert. Excused by Colonel Campbell at Watauga.*
Phillips, James, King's Mountain. Killed. Ensign.
Preston, Walter, King's Mountain.
Purviance, William, King's Mountain.
Piper, James, King's Mountain.
•But three days married at the time, and he was excused by Colonel Campbell,
without Preston s knowledge.
^Yashington County. 1777-1S70. 863
Pipjjin, Robert, King's Mountain. Virginia Militia.
Periy, Solomon, King's Mountain.
Pitts, Lewis, King's Mountain.
Price, James, King's Mountain.
Price, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Phillips, Samuel, King's [Mountain. Carried message from Ferguson to
Shelby.
Patterson, William, King's Mountain.
Poston, Richard, King's Mountain.
Pepper, Elisha, King's Mountain. Killed.
Rust, John, Virginia Militia.
Ross, Valentine. Captain Henry Hill's Virginia Infantry.
Pv.iley, Daniel, Virginia Line, Colonel Russell's Regiment.
Roberts, David.
Roy, Benjamin.
Ramsey, Josiah.
Reamy, Daniel, King's Mountain.
Rose, James.
Russell, William, King's Mountain. Lieutenant. ^
Ritchie, Alexander, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Ritchie, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Rhea, Joseph, King's Mountain.
Russell, Robei-t, King's Mountain.
Roberts, James, King's Mountain.
Riley, David, Continental Line, Colonel William Russell's Regiment.
Reazer, Peter, King's Mountain.
Roberson, William, King's Mountain.
Robinson, John, King's Mountain. Second Lieutenant.
Rosebrough, William, King's Mountain. Captain.
Scott, John, Captain Rowland Madison's Company. Died in service.
Stein, Leonard. Died in service, 1778.
Statzer, Martin. Died in service.
Scott, Joseph, Sr., King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Scott, Joseph, King's Mountain.
Shaver, Michael. Killed Camden, S. C.
Spiars, John.
Smith, Francis, Virginia Continental Line. Lieutenant.
Sharp, Richard E., King's Mountain.
Sharp, Thomas, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Shatter, John.
Smith, Edward.
Stewart, William, King's Mountain.
Smith, John.
Smith, James, King's Mountain.
Sloan, William.
864 Southtvest Virgim-a, 17Jf6-17S6.
Smith, Daniel. Lieutenant-Colonel.
Sawyens, John. Ensign.
Sword, Michael.
Sykes, John, Virginia Continental.
Skaggs, John, King's Mountain. Wounded.
Stovall, Bartholomew, King's Mountain.
Scott, Alexander, King's Mountain.
Scott, William, King's Mountain.
Snodgrass, William, King's Mountain.
Smith, Henry, King's Mountain.
Stevenson, John, King's Mountain.
Self, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Scott, Walter, King's Mountain.
Scott, Tliomas, King's Mountain.
Sharp, Benjamin, King's ^Mountain, Guilford Courthouse.
Sharp, William, King's Mountain.
Snodgrass, James, King's Mountain.
Smith, William, King's Mountain.
Scott, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Scott, Archibald, King's Moimtain.
Scott, Eobert, King's Mountain.
Smith, Jonas, Virginia Militia.
Stuart, John. Wounded Point Pleasant.
Snoddy, John, King's Mountain.
Shaw, John.
. — Steele, John, King's Mountain. Enisign.
Shote, Thomas, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Tate, John, King's Mountain.
Thomas, David.
Thacker, Reuben.
Talbert, Charles, King's Mountain.
Thompson, William, King's Mountain.
Thompson, James, King's Mountain. Captain.
Trimble, Robert, King's Mountain.
Treadway, William, Cherokee Expedition, 1780.
Topp, Roger, King's Mountain.
Teeter, George, King's Mountain.
Vance, James, King's Mountain. Enisign.
Vance, Samuel, King's Mountain.
Vance, John, King's Mountain.
Vanhook, Samuel, King's Mountain. Ensign.
Vermillion, Jesse.
Vineyard, George. At Yorktown.
Woodward, Jacob, Virginia Line.
Walker, Wm.
Wilson, John.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 865
?Widener, Michael, Virginia Militia, Continental Line.
Witten, Thomas, Sr.
Welsh, Robert, Colonel Richard Parker's Regiment.
Watson, David, King's Mountain.
Woolsey, Thomas, King's Mountain.
Ward, David, King's Mountain.
White, Benjamin, King's Mountain.
Wynn, William, King's Mountain.
Willoughby, William, King's Mountain. Lieutenant. Killed.
Willoughby, Matthew, King's Mountain.
Whitten, Solomon, King's Mountain.
Wiley, Alexander, King's Mountain. Lieutenant.
Yontz, George, King's Mountain.
Yearv', Henry, King's Mountain.
Young, William, King's ^lountain.
Young, James, King's Mountain.
NUMBER OF TROOPS FURNISHED BY THE STATES DURIXG THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
Continental Armies. Militia. Total.
New Hampshire 12,497. 4,000. 16,497.
Massachusetts 67,907. 20,000. 87.907.
Rhode Island 5,908. 4,000. 9,908.
Connecticut 31,939. 9.000. 40,939.
New York 17,781. 10,000. 27,781.
New Jersey 10,726. 7,000. 17,726.
Pennsylvania 25,678. 10,000. 35,678.
Delaware 2,386. 1,000. 3,386.
Maryland 13,912. 9,000. 22,912.
Virginia 26,678. 30,000. 56,678.
North Carolina 7,263. 13,000. 20,263.
South Carolina 6,417. 20,000. 26,417.
Georgia 2,679. 8.000. 10,679.
231,771. 145,000. 376,771.
WASHINGTON COUNT Y.
Officers in the Militia, 1812-1815.
Colonel 105th Regiment.
Preston, John.
Captains.
Miller, Joseph. Fulkerson, Abram. Dryden, Nathaniel.
Gray, William. Gibson, John. Hickman, Michael.
Scott, James. Bradley, Reuben. Ireson, William.
Smith, William.
8(5G
Southwest Vir(jini((. 111^6-1186.
Scott, James.
Fulkerson, John.
Davanlt, John.
McGinn is, Samuel.
Gray, John.
Talbott, James.
Beattie, James.
Patterson, Andrew.
Robinson, Alex., Jr.
Halkett, John.
Hickman, George.
Shaver, Thomas.
Henderson, John.
Beattie, Armstrong.
Hill, Moses.
Crabtree, James.
Lieutenants.
Fleenor, Adam.
Mayo, Peter.
Crawford, Jno.
Shell, Lewis.
Wolf, Jonas.
Trigg, Jos. C.
Scott, Charles.
Clark, Job.
Camjjbell, David.
Ensigns.
Allen, James.
Edmond, Henry.
MjcConnell, Thomas.
Smith, John.
Bradshaw, .Joseph.
Edmiston, Jos., Jr.
Halfacre, Michael.
Langford, Jonathan.
McConnell, Thomas.
Parrott, Henry.
Shoer, Jacob.
Jordan, Moses.
Goodson, Samuel E.
Laughlin, Nath. W.
McConnell, Wm.
!McQuouni, Thos.
Currin, Waddy T.
Laughlin, N. M.
Campbell, James, Jr.
Buchanan, John.
Carmack, Joseph.
Craig, Robert P.
Nordyke, Abram.
Cornets.
Clark, John. Willoughby, Andrew.
Colonels lOtli Regiment.
^Francis Preston (promoted Brigadier-General), Tate, Chas.
Major.
Byar.s, Wm.
Ganaway, Robert.
Harlev, James.
Bowen, Arthur, Jr.
Ganaway, Edmond.
Edmiston, Wm. ?
Main, Timothy.
Henderson, Andrew.
Thomas, Jos.
Rylie, Chas.
Hathorn, Robert.
Beattie, David.
Captains.
Trigg, Jos. C.
Orr, James.
Apperson, Wm.
Lieutenants.
]\ieek, James, Jr.
Ireson, Wm.
McConnell, Wm.
McClellan, Samuel.
Loehr, Jacob.
Ensigns.
Rouse, Rufus.
Talbert, Chas.
Beattie, Samuel.
Edmiston, Sanuud.
Cornets.
McQuown, Tliomais.
Beattie, Robert.
Houston, William.
Crabtree, James.
Beattie, James.
Clark, .John.
Tate, Wm. C.
Apperson, Jolm.
Trigg, Joseph.
McCarty, Benj.
McCulloch, Thos.
Smith, Tobias.
Thos. W. Colley, Confederate Soldier. Confederate l^attle Flag.
Confederate Uniform.
Washington County, 1777-1870. 867
WASHINGTON COUNTY CONFEDERATE SOLDIERS, 1861-1865.
WASHINGTON MOUNTED RIFLES.
Company "L," Afterwards Company "D," First Regiment,
Virginia Volunteer Cavalry.
Ofjicers.
William E. Jones, captain (afterwards brigadier-general).
W. W. Blackford, first lieutenant (afterwards captain).
Rees B. Edmondson, second lieutenant.
G. V. Litchfield, Jr., third lieutenant.
James King, orderly sergeant.
C. T. Litchfield, first sergeant.
Thomas B. Edmondson, second sergeant.
James M. Byars, third sergeant.
James K. Rambo, first corporal.
John A. P. Baker, second corporal.
Jacob L. Fields, second corporal. Appointed June, 1861.
Gilbert C. Greenway, third corporal.
W. M. Hopkins, color sergeant (colonel 25th Virginia Cavalry).
Officers at Reorganization , 1862.
C. T. Litchfield, captain.
Rees B. Edmonason, first lieutenant.
G. V. Litchfield, second lieutenant.
T. B. Edmondson, third lieutenant.
P. C. Landrum, orderly sergeant.
M. M. S. Ireson, first sergeant.
M. M. Pendleton, second sergeant.
P. C. Miles, third sergeant. Killed 1863.
C. H. Dulaney, fourth sergeant. Killed.
D. A. Fields, first corporal.
Thomas W. Colley, second corporal. Appointed May 23, 1864.
C. M. Waldron, third corporal.
B. Gilder sleeve, ordinance sergeant for 1st Regiment Virginia Cavalry.
S. J. McCliesney, ordinance sergeant for 1st Regiment Virginia Cavalry.
Privates.
Byars, James M. Bailey, Thomas W. Buchanan, Randolph.
Beatie, R. F. Bailey, Oscar S. Barker, W. D. (trans-
Beatie, Fountain (trans- Bailey, J. A., Jr. f erred to 63d Va. Inf.;
ferred to Mosby's Com- Baker, Joe H. made ordinance ser-
mand ) . Baker, J. A. P. geant ) .
Beattie, Walter D. Butt, J. W. Barr, David.
868
Southwest Virginia, 17 46-17 8G.
Buskcll, Alexander.
Buskell, Richard ( trans-
ferred Stuart's Horse
Artillery ) .
Catron, A. P. R.
Clark, M. R.
Clark, W. F. P.
Cole, Thomas V.
Cole, D. C.
Cassell, Rufus R.
Colley, Thomas W.
Colley, L. T.
Crawford, Ben C.
Crawford, Thomas C.
Cook, Frank J.
Cato, J. L.
Davis, John G. R.
Dunn, Wm. L. Doctor.
Dulaney, Charles H.
Deyerle, J. B.
Edmondson, M. V.
Euk, Frank J. (Frenchman
Capt. Jones brought
him from France with
other French and Ger-
mans to work vine-
yards. )
Edmondson, T. B.
Findlay, Frank S.
Fields, C. R.
x'ields, J. L.
Findlay, T. K.
Fulkerson, Frank R., Rog-
ersville, Tenn.
Gildersleeve, B., Jr.
Gray, F. T., captain 21st
Cavalry, 1863.
Gray, R. E.
Gray, D. C.
Gollihon, J. A.
Gammon, Melvin.
Hockett, John.
Hockett, William.
Hubble, Thos., Smji;h Co.
Ireson, M. M. S.
Jones, Jasper (transferred
to Mosby's Command ) .
Jones, Henry S.
Johnson, W. M.
Kelly, S. F.
Larimore, John.
Lynch, D. C.
Loggin, John.
Litchfield, C. T.
Loggins, J. H.
Meek, S. D.
Montgomery, Wm. F.
Morrell, William W.
Morrell, David H.
Morrell, Charles.
MclSTew, Leander.
McNew, Tobias.
McReynolds, J. M,
McReynolds, Wm. (trans-
ferred from 4th Texas
1861).
McChesney, S. J.
MaHaffey, Wm. A. (trans-
ferred to Horse Artil-
lery 1861).
Mosby, John S. (after-
wards colonel Independ-
ent Rangers ) .
Moore, David.
Miles, P. C. (killed at
Spotsylvania C. H. ).
Ornduff, John.
Orr, M. C. (discharged for
deafness ) .
Page, R. M.
Pendleton, M. M.
Price, Wm. H. (doctor).
Roberts, John M.
Rambo, James K.
Rambo, A. F.
Riddle, James W.
Rush, Jerry C.
Rusisell, John, Rogersville,
Tenn.
Robertson, Frank S. (af-
terwards Lieut. 48th Va.
Inf.).
Rodefer, J. Alex, (trans-
ferred to 45th Va. Regi-
ment ) .
Sanders, Robert J. (dis-
charged 1863).
Sanders, J. W. S. (trans-
ferred to Mosby's Com-
mand ) .
Sandoe, David P.
Scott, William E.
Smith, William Buck.
Smith, Thomas (trans-
ferred to 45th Va. Regi-
ment ) .
Smith, William.
Snodgrass. William L.
Shepherd, Thomas J.
Vaughan, William W.
White, William B.
Williams, Rufus C.
Members who volunteered in the Washington Mounted Rifles, and ivho
did not go out with the company — joined other commands.
Dickerson, J. W. P. Skinner, Daniel. Hunt, Stephen.
MaHaflFey, F. C. Bittle, Robert L. Clark, Thomas W. (dis-
Grant, J. T. Johnson, William M. ability). Sleepy Tom.
Cato, J. L. Dorsey, Elias. Wright, T. D.
Bowser, J. B.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
8G9
Recruits Which Came to the Company from 1862 to 1865.
Arnett, James A.
Asberry, Mansfield.
Asberiy, William.
Asberry, L. D.
Allison, Abram.
Bearden, William.
Bailey, Walter.
Bailey, William.
Butt, Henry C.
Buchanan, William.
Bradley, James H.
Black, William D. (dis-
charged 1862).
Black, Samuel D.
Byars, A. H. (Old Dad).
Bryant, John W.
Campbell, John.
Carmack, D. C.
Catron, Frank M.
Clark, James H.
Clark, William D.
Clark, I. L.
Clapp, T. M.
Crockett, A. M., Lee Co.
Cosby, L. T., 1862.
Colley, William L.
Cosby, John D.
Cubine, William.
Davis, John M.
Davidson, Thomas.
DeBusk, David.
DeBusk, Samuel.
Duff, T. B.
Duff, J. M.
Edmondson, John B.
Edmondson, Strong.
French, J. L. M.
Greenway, W. T.
Gray, Charles P.
Gray, James.
Grant, Robert.
Hall, William A.
Hall. John D.
Harris, A. Findlay.
Hockett, Samuel.
Hickman, R. M.
Hewlett, Geo., Amherst
county.
Horn, Basal.
Jones, Robert M.
Jones, David (transferred
to Mosby's Command
and captured by Union
men and hung with six
comrades by order Gen.
Custer, near Fr't Roy'l,
in 1864.)
Keesling, M. G., Wythe
county.
Keesling, Emory, Wytlie
county.
Keesling, John, Wythe
county.
Keller, Robert J.
King, H. G., Wythe Co.
Latham, M. H.
Latham, L. W.
Ligon, Ben. D.
Lowry, David ( color-bearer
at Appomattox; remov-
ed flag from staff, con-
cealed and brought it
home with him).
Lewark, D. K. H.
Littleford, John.
Littleford, Willis.
Meek, James R.
Montgomery, Lilburn.
Morrison, J. L.
McNew, George.
McChesney, Wallace.
Meadows, M. T.
McConnell, Tliomas.
Munday, M. J., Madison
county.
Murray, J. H.
MeCall, Samuel, Wythe
county.
Mead, Wm. (From near
Georgetown, D. C. Ran
off from his mother and
joined our company.
Capt. Jones became very
much attached to him.
He was only 13 years
old. Gen. Jones took
him to the Valley of Va.
with him'. He was killed
in 1863.)
Page, J. H.
Page, John W.
Page, Robert.
Painter, William.
Pendleton, H. G., Wythe
county.
Preston, R. B.
Pendleton, Joseph.
Preston, Thomas.
Roe, Edward.
Roe, S. E.
Ritchie, James L.
Rosenbalm, A. D.
Roe, William.
Ryburn, David.
Roe, Newton.
Richards, John B.
Saunders, S. D.
Swartz, J. J.
Smith, John L.
Strother, W. Trigg.
Trigg, C. F.
Trigg, Thomas K.
White, Dr. William.
White, John G.
Webb, A. H.
Wright, F. D.
Waldron, C. M.
Wampler, E. W., Wythe
county.*
?Furnished by Thomas W. Colley.
870
Southivest Virginia, 17Jf6-1786.
GooDSON Rifle Guakds.
Officers.
John F. Terry, captain.
John T. Megginson, first lieutenant.
Alexander Lazenby, second lieutenant.
William L. Rice, third lieutenant.
William G. Lindsey, first sergeant.
E. S. Johnston, second sergeant.
Charles W. Taylor, third sergeant.
Henry Guggenheimer, fourth sergeant.
John C. Gamer, first corporal.
John M. C. Eakin, second corporal.
John M. Buchanan, third corporal.
George A. Feathers, fourth corporal.
j^rivates.
Appling, James A.
Alvis, Samuel W.
Bailey, D. F.
Butler, M. M.
Blancett, Harden L.
Brown, William H.
Bibb, Samuel F.
Burlingame, Miles.
Betterton, Robert F.
Betterton, James T.
Buck, Charles C.
Beasley, Robert.
Barker, John H.
Carson, Thomas J.
Campbell, Andrew J.
Crabtree, James B.
Coleman, Lewis L.
Crumley, Stephenson M.
Cooley, George A.
Foalden, James A.
Foster, Ben.
Ferguson, William R.
Foster, Shadrach.
Grubb, Henry.
Green, Benjamin H.
Girtman, William.
German, John A.
Hughes, John W.
^Hamilton, James M..
Johnson, Lucian A.
Jones, Elbert S.
Jamison, John L.
Kerin, Joseph R.
Kelly, Joseph W.
*Lancaster, William H.
Luttrell, Bryan.
Lester, Noah L.
McCrosky, John J.
Maxey, Corland P.
Morgan, James W.
Nickels, Lsaae A.
Owen, Joseph W.
Pile, George C.
Pepper, George P.
Preston, William S.
Preston, Samuel F.
Paflf, John C.
Quails, William R.
Ruti", Benjamin H.
Rhea, Joseph A.
Rhea, Robert.
Rhea, Edwin R.
Rosenheim, Segman.
Short, A. D. L.
Sharrett. John R.
Stokes, John R.
Speiss, Philip G.
Salsburg, Samuel S.
Slade, Charles.
Taylor, Adam.
Thomas, James P.
Thomas, James M.
Thomas, Charles F.
Tyler, William C.
Tranbarger, David.
Wilson, Thomas H.
White, Preston A.
Waldron, William R.
Weddle, Asa L.
*Roster at the date of organization of company in 1861.
Washington County^ 1777-1870.
871
"MOUNTAIN BOYS."
Company "B," Thirty- seventh Virginia Regiment.
Officers at Organization.
Dr. William White, captain.
F. A. Humes, first lieutenant.
B. P. Morrison, second lieutenant.
J. N. Humes, third lieutenant.
David King, color sergeant.
C. M. Knott, first orderly sergeant.
Ed. Hortenstine, second orderly sergeant.
Officers at Reorganisation, 1862.
B. P. Morrison, captain.
E. Hortenstine, first lieutenant.
C. M. Knott, second lieutenant.
J. N. Humes, third lieutenant.
William H. Suit, first sergeant.
J. R. Crawford, second sergeant.
John N. Hilliard, third sergeant.
Joseph E. Earls, fourth sergeant.
Samuel B. Bowers, fifth sergeant.
John G. Duff, first corporal.
Ebenezer Dinsmore, second corporal.
Isom H. Williams, third corporal.
John T. Bott, fourth corporal.
Alfreds, James C.
Barker, William F.
Bowers, John L.
Bowman, Peter.
Bowman, Tyre.
Bridgeman, John.
Bridgeman, Joshua.
Campbell, William H.
Chick, Meriwether L.
Chapman, George W.
Clark, Alpheus.
Church, Dewey C.
Church, Nathaniel.
Clark, George W.
Privates.
Clark, .James C.
Clark, Samuel.
Coalter, James C.
Chick, William.
Chick, Lewis.
Cox, Alison.
Cox, James.
Cuddy, James G.
Dinsmore, James.
Dinsmore, Samuel.
Dinsmore, William.
Dooly, Frank W.
Drake, Edward.
Duff, John S. B.
Dye, Richard.
Davis, Wm. (Drummer.)
Dinsmore, George L.
Estep, James F.
Estep, James.
Estep, George.
Ewing, James A.
Fern, John H.
Fern, Nathan B.
Franklin, Miles H. T.
Glenn, William.
Gentry, , killed at Mc-
Dowell.
Gilliland, Mike.
872
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Goff, Hugh L.
Goff, William H.
Gilliland, David.
Gobble, Lilburn H.
Goff, Jacob.
Green, Joshua.
Greer, Buck.
Hilliard, James.
Harless, Alfred P.
Harlees, William A.
Henritze, Samuel.
Holley, William.
Holt, Isaac.
Holt, James H.
Hilliard, Samuel L.
Hilliard, Robert A.
Hickok, Charles H.
Johnston, Daniel.
Johnston, William D.
Keller, John.
King, Cyrus.
King, Edward.
King, J. Stanton.
Linticum, Thomas.
Leggins, Alexander.
Leggins, John.
Moore, James.
McVey, Samuel.
McVey, James.
McDaniel, Alfred.
Moorefield, Stephen C.
Mitchell, John.
Mise, Russell.
Mise, Jesse S.
Massey, Gus.
Owens, William.
Oney, Robert (killed).
Perry, Wm.
Pippin, Robert.
Privitt, Eli.
Privott, Chester.
Pippin, Tom.
Phillips, Jasper.
Roe, Elisha.
Roberts, William E.
Rock, Thomas.
Scott, Joseph.
Scott, Andy J.
Skinner, William (Fifer).
Shelton, Jacob M.(M.D.).
Shelton, Jacob.
Shelton, William L.
Shelton, James.
Shelton, James J.
Stone, Samuel L.
Shepherd, Henry P.
Shortt, Daniel.
Skinner, Daniel T.
Scott, Campbell.
Sullins, Elisha.
Saul, William.
Sullins, Russell.
Sullins, Joseph T.
Sullins, John.
Shaver, David.
Shaver, Joshua.
Tate, Austin B.
Thomas, William R.
Taylor, Joe.
Vaughan, Edward.
Vaughan, Joseph.
Wallace, William L.
Webb, Charles 0.
Weaver, William.
Williams, William.
Woodward, George W.
Woodward, Robert S.
Wilson, James.
Williams, Isom.
Wirrum, John.
Worley, Wid.
Williams, John.
Whicker, Ewell.
'WASHINGTON INDEPENDENTS," AFTERWARDS COMPANY K,
THIRTY-SEVENTH VIRGINIA INFANTRY.
Officers at Organization.
Dr. James L. White, captain.
Joseph T. Campbell, first lieutenant.
Wm. B. Clark, second lieutenant.
Benj. C. Clark, third lieutenant.
Charles F. Keller, first sergeant.
Abram B. Keller, second sergeant.
Robert S. Bowie, third sergeant.
Wm. Clark, fourth sergeant.
W. j\. Aven, first corporal.
Samuel Houston, second corporal.
Daniel T. Stone, third corporal.
Thomas J. Warren, fourth corporal.
W. S. Preston, color-bearer.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
873
Officers at Reorganization.
John A. Preston, captain.
L. Irby Forrest, first lieutenant.
Kobert S. Bowie, second lieutenant.
Walter S. Preston, third lieutenant.
Andrew W. McConnell, first sergeant.
Thomas J. Warren, second sergeant.
John K. Deadmore, third sergeant.
Wm. Clark, fourth sergeant.
Adam F. Thompson, fifth sergeant.
Lilburn Fern, first corporal.
Wm. J. Crabtree, second corporal.
Joseph H. McNew, third corporal.
Joseph B. McDaniel, fourth corporal.
James Vance elected captain 1861 to fill vacancy occasioned by resigna-
tion of Captain James L. White.
Privates.
Aven, W. A., wounded March 20,
1862: died since war.
Aven, M. G., killed at Cedar Pvun
August 9, 1862.
Berry, R. A., died since war.
Berry, Smith, discharged.
Berry, J. D.
Branch, W. S.
Brannon, J. C.
Barger, J. T., discharged.
Brooks, J. F., died during war.
Brown, James.
Brown, T. E., died since war.
Bowie, R. S., wounded; died since
war.
Cronan, Thomas.
Clark, W. B., died during war.
Clark, W., died since war.
Clark, B. C, died since war.
Clark, I. G.
Clark, Thomas, died since war.
Clark, J. A. W., Avounded at Mc-
Dowell.
Clark, Andrew, died since war.
Cole, F. P., wounded ; died since war.
Cole, B. G.
Campbell, J. G., died since war.
Campbell, J. H., died during war.
Cavenah, J.
Cosb}^, J. D., discharged, afterwards
joining Company D, First Virginia
Cavalry.
Crabtree, W. J.
Daniel, J. B.,- wounded; died May 3,
1863.
Carmack, D. C, died since war.
Daniel, J. D.
Davis, L. D.
Davis, John.
Davis, J. E., died since war.
DuflF, S. G.
Deadmore, J. K., wounded ; died since
war.
Driskell, James.
Denton, J. R., killed August 9, 1862.
Denton, J., died during war at Fort
Delaware.
Denton, E., died during war at Foi't
Delaware.
Dunn, Theophilus, wounded May 25,
1862.
Donagough, J., killed.
Estep, George, killed May 3, 1863.
Estep, James, killed May 3, 1863.
Fleenor, M. V.
Forran, Lilburn, wounded.
874
Southwest Virginia. 11J^6-178C).
Fields, J. T.
Forrest, L. I., killed Spotsylvania
Courthouse 1864.
Forrest, J. T., wounded.
Farnsworth, J. S., discharged; died
since war.
Gorman, J.
Gray, M. L., died during war, 1861.
Grimm, S. D., wounded Petersburg
March 25, 1865.
Hayter, F. H., killed August 9, 1862.
Hayter, W. D., died since war;
wounded at Winchester.
Hicks, R., wounded; discharged.
Hobbs, J. L., killed August 9, 1862.
Hobbs, J. W.
Hobbs, Elkanah.
Houston, Samuel, died since war.
Hill, Felix, wounded; died since
war.
Ireson, H. H., died during war, 1861.
Johnston, Joseph W., wounded.
Kane, Edward, wounded.
King, James, killed March 23, 1862.
Keller, 0. F.
Keller, S. G., wounded March 23,
1862.
Keller, A. B., wounded.
Kenney, David.
Kiser, A. R., wounded.
Keys, A., died during war.
Keller, John.
Lowry, David.
Middleton, J. H., wounded August
9, 1862.
Mallicote, A. L., died since war; dis-
charged.
Maxwell, A.
Maxwell, J. V., died since war.
Mays, J. R., died since war.
McConnell, A. W., wounded; died
since the war.
McConnell, J. J., killed May 3, 1863.
McHenry, W. A., wounded at Mc-
Dowell.
McNew, Joseph, killed August 9,
1862.
IMitdiell, J. D.
Malone, D.
Minnick, Ben.
Minnick. W. S.. wounded.
Milliard, E., wounded May 3, 1863.
Milliard, S. L., killed McDowell,
1862.
McCarty, C. P., discharged.
Morefield, D.
McCauley, F. S., wounded May 3,
1863.
O'Brien. Martin.
Osborne, E.. wounded Chancellors-
ville.
Osborne, W., killed at Spotsylvania
Courthouse.
Pemberton, S. H., discharged.
Preston, W. S., wounded.
Preston, R. J.
Preston, J. A., wounded August 9,
1862, Cedar Run and Amelia
Courthouse.
Preston, R. A.
Potler, A., wounded; died in service.
Ropp, Wm. H., died since war.
Ropp, H. P., killed at Winchester,
1864.
Reedy, Fred., killed August 9, 1862.
Roadman, Wm., killed 1864.
Rigle, J. W., wounded Sharpsburg.
Shaver, .
Scott, A. J.
Sherman, L. S., wounded May 3,
1863.
Stewart, W., wounded; died since
the war.
Stewart, B.
Sullivan, J., died during war.
Stone, T. P., discharged; died since
war.
Stevens, D. C, discharged.
Smith, James A., died during war.
Stone, D. T., discharged.
Talbert, W.
Thompson, W. M., Avounded August
9, 1862.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
875
Thompson, A. F., wounded May 2, Vance, James, wounded March 23,
1863, and second Manassas. 1862; died since war.
Trigg, A. B., wounded August 9, Warren, T. J., wounded.
1862; died since war. *White, James L.
Trigg, T. K., wounded August 9, 'Whicker, Thomas.
1862.
GLADE SPRING RIFLES.
Company F, Thirty-Seventh Virginia Regiment Infantky.
Officers.
Robert P. Carson, captain.
Georgd Graham, first lieutenant.
James L. Cole, second lieutenant.
Benj. Snodgrasis, third lieutenant.
P. S. Hagy, first sergeant.
William M. Allison, second sergeant.
Andrew Kelly, third sergeant.
Wm. H. Miller, fourth sergeant.
Michael H. Duff, first corporal.
John B. Allison, second corporal.
Benjamin Reed, third corporal.
Samuel P. Edmondson, fourth corporal.
Alderson, Davis.
Authenreith, Louis.
Asberry, Wm. L.
Adkins, Wm.
Allison, Wm. W.
Allison, John B.
Anderson, Jos. J.
Buchanan, A. E.
Buchanan, Davis A.
Buchanan, Wm. R.
Buchanan, Wm. W.
Buchanan, David H.
Buchanan, A. R.
Buchanan, Moses S.
Blackwell, Wm. B.
Barbary, W. H.
Bullen, David.
Carson, R. P.
Cole, Jas. L.
Clark, W. D.
Privates.
Clark, Wm. A.
Clark, John B.
Clark, Jas. A., Jr.
Clark, Jas. A.
Carpenter, John C.
Duff, M. J. H.
DeBusk, Wm.
DeBusk, David J.
DeBusk, Andrew J.
Doss, Elias.
Edmondson, Andrew B.
Edmondson, Samuel P.
Edmondson, Samuel N.
Edmondson, David.
Edmondson, James.
Edmondson, John W.
Edmondson, Robert.
Faris, Jacob M.
Faris, Samuel.
Fry, Thomas.
Graham, George.
Garrett, Henry.
Graham, Samuel.
Gentry, Elijah.
Glenn, John.
Glenn, Samuel.
Glenn, William.
Hutton, Samuel J.
Hutton, Robert S. C.
Horn, Eassel L.
Houston, W. C.
Haden, Nathaniel.
Hawthorn, Wm.
Hawthorn, Robert.
Hawthorn, M. B.
Havpthorn, A. F.
Hawthorn, David T.
Hawthorn, B. D.
Hawthorn, H. C.
Holloway, A. J.
?Furnished by Walter Preston, T. K Trigg and C. F. Keller.
876
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Hagy, Wm. Mc.
Hagy, Wm.
Hagy, P. S.
Home, John E.
Heath, William.
Kelly, Andrew.
Kelly, Wm. B.
Kelly, George.
Kelly, Wm.
Kelly, Wm. R.
Kelly, Samuel.
Keys, Andrew.
Lowry, Wm. G. G.
Lowry, Robert S.
Love, Jos. R.
Lefler, Sam. H.
Loggins, John M.
LfOggins, Wm. A.
Lilly, Wm. W.
Larimer, Robert E.
Larimer, Robert J.
Louis, Philip.
MeCall, John.
McCall, John M.
McCall, Wm.
Mock, E. H.
Mock, Peter G.
Moore, James.
McVey, James.
McVey, William.
McVey, Anderson.
McNew, Arthur.
McNew, John.
Mindler, F. T.
McCrackin, Madison.
Miller, Wm. H.
McCall, Robert L.
Moore, Wm.
Moore, Andrew F.
Nye, James H.
NeflF, Andrew M.
Nichols, Edmond.
Owens, Alexander.
Owens, William.
Orr, James.
Preston, John.
Powers, Samuel H.
Powers, James M.
Poore, Jerry.
Poole, John R.
Poole, C. S.
Pafford, M. \Y.
Painter, Thomas R.
Reed, Benj.
Reed, Thomas.
Reed, Arthur.
Reedy, Elijah H.
Reedy, Wm. M.
Ryburn, Wm. B.
Rambo, Samuel K.
Reedy, David.
Rotenberry, James.
Robinson, Samuel.
Rosenbalm, J. D.
Rosenbalrii, R. R.
Rosenbalm, James.
Roe, Andrew J.
Snodgrass, Benj.
Snodgrass, Wm. M.
Snodgraiss, Wm.
Snodgrass, James.
Stewart, Thomas H.
Sheffield, Thos. P.
Straus, Jos.
Smith, Henry.
Stringer, Winston.
Stringer, Thos. H.
Stringer, Jeff. A.
Thurman, P. B.
Thomas, Charles.
Thomas, Edward H.
Thomas, Moses E.
Thomas, Andrew.
Thomas, Samuel.
Thomas, Geo.
Tilson, Stephen J.
Tomlinson, Jabez.
Trent, John.
Trent, Isaac.
Troxwell, John.
Vanderpool, James,
Wright, John.
Wright, H. F.
Wright, Henry.
Widener, Wm. M.
Widener, Nelson.
Widener, James.
White, James.
White, Thomas J. B.
*Widener, John J.
TWENTY-SECOND REGIMENT VIRGINIA CAVALRY, COMPANY C.
Officers.
Henry Bowen, colonel.
John T. Radford, lieutenant-colonel.
Henry F. Kendrick, major.
John C. Stanfield, captain Company C, Twenty-second.
John B. Hamilton, first lieutenant.
Theophilus Dunn, second lieutenant.
Robert Horton, third lieutenant.
Robert Bittle, adjutant.
?Furnished by Benj. Reed and Andrew Kelly.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
877
Albridge, Newton.
Belcher, Jos.
Barker, Martin.
Bailey, John.
Brummit, Wm.
Bare, Larkin.
Bagley, Tobias (Ky.).
Clark, Job.
Cowan, Isaac.
Cuddy, Henry.
Cuddy, L. B.
Cuddy, John.
Dunn, John F.
Dunn, R. H.
Dishman, Albert.
Dowell, James.
Francher, Chas.*
Fields, John.
Fleming, Wm.
Graham, W. L. (S. C).
Norton, Nathan (Scott).
Hamilton, Thomas.
Privates.
Hamilton, Robert.
Hamilton, Brandon.
Hartsock, Thomas.
Hartsock, Charles.
Harmon, Godfrey.
Hewitt, Malachi.
Ingle, John W.
Jenkins, John.
Kenady, M. J.
Leonard, Robert.
Leonard, Jordan.
Lane, Thomas.
Mitchell, Wm.
Mitchell, Levi.
Massingill, Henry.
Musick, W. Y. C.
Musick, Thomas.
McHenry, Wm.
McCotwiek, John.
Miles, John.
Nunly, James.
Nunly, Ashborn.
Piper, Brown.
Piper, .
Paugh, A. J.
Philips, Robert.
Price, Robert.
Ruple, Joseph.
Roberts, James.
Scott, George.
Stuffle, Jordan.
Smith, Chesterfield.
Smith, Wm.
Slaughter, John.f
Sproles, Jos.
Stone, Chas. (S. C).
Thompson, Albert.
Vermillion, Wm.
Walker, Robert.
Williams, James.
Woods, John.
Worley, Nathan.
Worley, (4. B.
Worley, Joseph.^
Remarks.
This regiment belonged to General John MeCausland's Brigade and Ran-
som's Division. Made the raid to Washington, D. C, with Early; then to
Chambersburg, Pa.
TWENTY-FIRST VIRGINIA CAVALRY, COMPANY F.
Officers.
William E. Peters, colonel.
David Edmondson, lieutenant-colonel.
John Halley, major.
Starks, adjutant.
F. T. Gray, captain.
J. G. R. Davis, first lieutenant.
B. D. Hawthorn, second lieutenant.
James Gray, third lieutenant.
Mike Gilliland, first sergeant.
T. B. Berry, second sergeant.
W. F. Allison, third sergeant.
?This man belonged to United States army. His brother was shot for sleeping on
post, and he came South for revenge.
fBelonged to A. C. Cummlng's Company, Mexican war.
JFurnished by Captain J. C. Stanfleld.
878
Southwest Virginia, 17Jf.6-1786.
Aven, Wiley.
Brown, Alex.
Bowers, Abe.
Berry, D. F.
Boiling, Gam.
Boiling, James.
Cowan, Rutledge.
Clark, Peter J.
Campbell, David.
Campbell, John.
Campbell, David, Jr.
Cox, Mike.
Clark, Andrew.
Privates.
Caldwell, Wm. K.
Cross, James.
Gray, John C.
Gray, W. M.
Garrett, Abe.
Keys, Robert.
Keller, Jacob.
King, Leander.
King, Samuel.
Loggins, Wm.
Loggins, James.
Larimer, Andrew.
Longley, Seldon.
McQuown, Alex.
McCall, James.
McDaniel, Joseph.
Pemberton, B. F.
Pemberton, Richard.
Quisenberry, Lewis.
Roe, Edward.
Talley, Wm.
Widener, Nelson.
Widener, Lilbum.
Wright, Robert W.
Wiley, Wm. W.*
COMPANY I, FORTY-EIGHTH VHIGINIA REGIMENT.
Officers.
J. C. Campbell, captain. Wounded McDowell,
F. S. Robertson, first lieutenant.
J. Carmack, second lieutenant. Bristol.
E. Rodefer, third lieutenant. Greendale.
J. A. Vance, first sergeant. Died Lewisburg, W. Va.
William Fields, second sergeant. Wounded at Richmond.
W. H. Hamilton, third sergeant.
S. G. Ingham, fourth sergeant.
M. R. Latham, fifth sergeant.
T. M. Gobble, first corporal.
T. N. Hamilton, second corporal.
F. C. CoUings, third corporal.
M. L. Bocock, fourth corporal.
Privates.
Alfreds, L. S.
Bowser, J. R.
Berry, Hugh.
Buckles, H. G.
Branson, W. J.
Booher, George.
Booher, John S.
Booher, W. D.
Branson, A.
Bowers, John R.
Cunningham, A. J., wounded second
Manassas.
Campbell, 0. H., wounded at Gettys-
burg.
Choice, P. P., wounded at Winches-
ter.
Carr, Alfred, died in camp at Big
Spring.
Chapman, D. G.
Crowell, Wm. S.
*Partial list furnished by Thomas B. Berry.
Washington County, 1777-1870.
879
Crowell, Robert N.
Cuddy, John E,., died in prison.
Dixon, C. B.
Dickenson, C. 0., killed at Chancel-
lorsville.
Dickenson, W. H.
Dickenson, John P., died in prison.
Davis, Wm. M.
Dickenson, James.
Dickenson, R. C.
Fleenor, Isa-ac G., killed at Gettys-
burg.
Fleenor, Robert H., killed at Gettys-
burg.
Fleenor, James.
Fleenor, Harvey G., died a prisoner.
Fleenor, Thos. C, killed at Winches-
ter.
Fleenor, Samuel E.
Fleenor, W. W., wounded at Sharps-
burg.
Fleenor, M. G., wounded at Chan-
cellorsville.
Guess, John.
Guess, Jas. W. P., wounded at Chan-
cellorsville.
Guess, N. C.
Gobble, J. B.
Grubb, Jacob H.
Hagy, J. Harrison.
Henderson, John L., killed at Cedar
Mountain.
Hamilton, John B.
Harris, Samuel L.
Hagy, David C.
Humphreys, John.
Humphreys, Daniel, woimded at
Chancellorsville.
Heatherly, Geodfry.
Hughes, James E.
Hughes, 0. F.
Hutton, J. H.
Hayton, George.
Harley, John M., died in prison.
Hagy, W. F.
Hamilton, W. H.
Ingham, Moses.
Ireson, W. L., wounded Gettysburg
and Petersburg.
Ingle, A. H., wounded Chancellors-
ville.
Ingle, Joseph.
Ireson, J. L.
Jones, T. F.
Johnston, John F.
Jones, Russell, wounded Hatcher's
Run.
Kestner, J. H., died near Harrison-
burg, Va. ( supposed ) .
Kegly, Wm. H., wounded Mine Run.
Kingsolver, A. F., died in prison.
Kingsolver, David.
Kennedy, John W., died Valley
Mountain.
Kennedy, A. J., died Elmira, N. Y.
Kestner, J. A., wounded second
Manassas.
Lewis, George W.
Lyon, Churchill, died in hospital.
Lyon, David, died in hospital.
Lyon, Josiah.
Lyon, R. F.
Mumpower, M. M., wounded at
Gettysburg.
Morgan, W. J.
McPhatridge, N. B.
Murray, Drewry.
Minnick, Thomas J.
Minnick, John P.
Meade, John E., wounded at Bath.
MaHafFey, Samuel C.
Moore, Jos. E.
Moore, R. S., killed at Richmond.
McGee, C. J.
Mobley, W. W.
Meayle, Abram F.
Mitchell, J. W.
Muisick, A. G., wounded at Wilder-
ness.
Musick, T. W.
Price, Daniel E.
Price, Wm. F.
Price, Emory O., woimded at Gettys-
burg.
Perdue, Wiley H., died in hospital.
Painter, Arthur R., died in hospital.
880
Southwest Virginia, 1746-1786.
Pitzer, James M.
PaiTott, Henry.
Ramsey, Wm. H.
Rush, Robert W.
Roberts, David C, killed at Gettys-
burg.
Roberts, Henry.
Ramsey, H.
Roberts, James.
Roberts, W. W.
Roberts, John, wounded Chancellors-
ville.
Shaver, Martin, wounded at the
Wilderness.
Shoemaker, R. R., died in camp.
Smith, John A.
Seyphers, W. G.
Stout, Samuel.
Stout, Wm., killed at Gettysburg.
Stout, J. H.
Stout, W. W.
Thompson, A. G., wounded Gettys-
burg.
Town send, George F.
Trammell, Nath. A.
Vaughan, E.
Wilson, James P.
Wilson, W. J.
Wilson. John A., woimded at Rich-
mond.
Wilson, J. H.
Wilson, A. S.
Wilson, Samuel.
Wilson, J. H.
Webb, G. T.
^^'ebb, David J.
Warren, W.
White, J. M.
"White, John H.
COMPANY H, THIRTY-SEVENTH VIRGINIA VOLUNTEERS.
Officers.
R. E. Grant, captain.
Robert Wright, tirst lieutenant.
I. C. Rambo, second lieutenant.
W. B. Edmondson, third lieutenant.
Arnold, Thomas.
Arnold, M. S.
Buck, Wm.
Barlow, James.
Beattie, John.
Berry, James. -
Barberry, James.
Black, Samuel.
Bailey, Wm.
Brown, Abe.
Buchanan, Moses.
Carson, Wm.
Clark, P. D.
Caldwell, S. T.
Privates.
Caldwell, T. Jeff.
Carrington, W. C.
Cole, Andrew.
Duff, Felix.
Duff, E.
Davis, Edward.
DeBusk, Thomas.
DeBusk, David.
Dungan, Thomas.
Elrod, Henry.
Elrod, Wiley.
Edmondson, M. R.
Fulcher, James.
Grant, J. Tol.
Harris, Jacob.
Hellenstruttet, Wm.
Keller, Joseph.
Lowry, Robert.
McClme, N. B.
McGhee, John.
Moser, James.
McGinnis, Samuel.
McKee, Matt.
McKee, Joseph.
Morrison, David.
McCrackin, Fulk.
McCraekin, Frank.
McCrackin, Hugh.
?Furnished by John Roberts and .lohu B. Hamilton.
Washington Covnty, 1777-1870.
881
McCrackin, Joseph.
MeCrackin, James.
McCrackin, Green.
Neely, Joe.
Rhea, John.
Rhea, Joseph.
Roe, T. J.
Roe, N.
Rosenbalm, Tice.
Rosenbalm, James.
Rosenbalm, Eli.
Rosenbalm, Dave.
Speer, Joe.
Speer, John.
Smith, Tobe.
South, Clabe.
South, Columbus.
South, C. A.
South, Frank.
Thomas, Isaac.
Thomas, J. D.
Thomas, J. Matt.
Thomas, Con.
Thomas, Henry.
Vestal, L.
Vestal, Henry.
Vestal, John.
Vestal, Robert.
Wright, Wm.
Wright, Frank.
Wright, James.
Wright, Thomas.
Wright, John.
Widener, John.
Widener, Wm;
Widener, James.
Widener, Lige.*
COMPANY C, TWENTY-FIRST VIRGINIA CAVALRY (AT CLOSE
OF WAR).
Officers.
Robert J. Preston, captain.
Thomas Sutherland, first lieutenant.
William Meriweather, second lieutenant.
James McChain, orderly sergeant.
John Prather, second sergeant.
Marsh Baker, third sergeant.
Byars, D. 0.
Burkes, Wm.
Dickson, Thos.
Privates.
Lane, Geo.
Mooney, Richard.
Osborne, Elbert.
Osborne, Thos.
Sutherland, Tuck.
Wix, John.
Wright, Dick.
SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR, 1898.
[Citizens of Washington County Participating Therein.)
Company K, Forty-third LTnited States Infantry.
John Hortenstine, corporal. Died in service.
Frank Woolwine, R. Ed. Booher,
Charles C. Sandoe, Hugh Stephenson,
William Maiden.
James E. Clark. Died in service in Philippine Islands.
Jamas McCall and Andrew Taylor. Rejected for physical
disability at Fort Ethan Allen, Vt.
Company H, Third Regiment of Volunteer Infantry U. S. A.
R. J. Summers, corporal, promoted to sergeant.
•Partial list furnislied by Isaac C. Rambo.
882 Southwest Yirginia, 171^6-1786.
Burch, G. V. Kestner, J. R. Shell, Henry.
Booher, R. E. Maloy, F. L. Sandoe, Ray B.
Clark, Jas. E. Williams, Jas. W. Sandoe, Chas. C.
Comett, Wm. H. Widener, A. J. Scott, J. W. Died in ser-
Flannagan, Matthew. Maiden, Frank. vice.
Flannagan, Chas. Nicholas, C. H. Snodgrass, A. 0.
Greer, Wm. Rosenbalm, J. R. Williamson, Andrew.
Gregory, Tuck. Rambo, H. J. Brownlow, Frank. After-
Hudson, E. L. Roberts, John. wards Corporal 2d
Hagy, R. Preston. Stultz, W. D. Tenn. Regiment.
This company was organized at Danville, Va., and was mustered into
United States service at Camp Lee, Richmond, Va., May 24, 1898, and was
commanded by Captain R. E. Freeman, of Danville, Va.
Fourth Virginia Regiment.
J. C. Watson, major.
Privates.
Thomas R. Hines, John Rodefer, B. D. Smythe.
J. Nathan Boardwine, Roosevelt's Rough Riders. Wounded at San Juan
Hill.
TRUSTEES OF THE ABINGDON ACADEMY, WITH DATE OF
APPOINTMENT.
1803. John Campbell Died 1825.
Robert Craig, Sr Resigned 1824.
Richard White Died 1826.
Robert Campbell Removed from county 1825.
James Bradley Removed from county 1824.
Gerrard T. Conn Died about 1823.
William King Died in 1808.
Francis Preston Died May, 1835; president of Board
1822-1826.
James White Died October, 1838; president of Board
1831-1838.
.:, Claiborne Watkins Died 1804.
Andrew Russell Treasurer 1825-1841.
William Tate Resigned 1822.
Henry Dixon Resigned.
Frederick Hamilton Died 1808.
David Campbell Resigned; secretary of Board 1803-1837.
1804. James King Removed 1805.
1805. Edward Campbell Died February, 1833.
1807. John Preston Resigned.
Stephen Bovell Removed from county 1836.
Washington County, 111 7-1810. 883
1807. Earl B. Clapp Died September, 1854; treasurer 1823-
1825.
John McClellan Removed from county 1819.
Francis Smith Resigned 1843.
James Harper Died 1815.
William Trigg Died 1813.
Jonathan Smith Removed from county 1810.
Thomas McChesney Died 1836.
Michael Deckard Removed from county 1811.
William Snodgrass Resigned 1822.
William Y. Conn Died 1837.
James Cummings Died August, 1840.
Robert Craig, Jr Removed from county 1817.
Connally Findlay Died 1817.
1822. Peter Johnston Died 1831 ; president of Board 1826-
1831.
Benjamin Estill Resigned 1837.
Wm. C. Preston Removed from county 1824.
Robert E. Cummings Removed from county 1834.
Joseph C. Trigg Died September, 1831.
Richard White, Jr Died 1827.
William Byars Resigned.
James Taylor Lived Smyth county.
John M. Preston Resigned; president of Board 1838-
1849.
John Gibson Resigned 1826.
1826. John N. Humes Died July, 1871 ; president of Board
1849-1871.
Peter J. Branch Secretary 1837-1861, treasurer 1841-
1861.
John H. Fulton Died January, 1836.
James King Resigned.
Chas. C. Johnston Died 1832.
James W. Preston Removed from county 1838.
Peter C. Johnston Removed to Smyth county.
Edward Latham Resigned 1843.
James L. White Died December, 1838.
1827. W'illiam Ewing Removed from county.
1832. Daniel Trigg Died February, 1853.
Robert R. Preston Resigned 1837.
Jacob Lynch Died March, 1862.
Samuel Logan Died July, 1855.
1840. Connally F. Trigg Removed from county 1856.
William Y. C. White Resigned 1871.
1841. John W. C. Watson Removed from county.
Jeremiah Bronough Removed from county 1843.
1843. Wyndham Robertson.
884 Southwest Virginia, 1740-1786.
1843. Chas. G. Gibson Died June, 1844.
1844. Thomas L. Preston Removed to Smyth county.
1849. James D. McCabe Removed from county.
1852. James K. Gibson Died March, 1879.
Beverly R. Johnston ....... .Resigned 1862.
John A. Campbell Died.
1854. Walter Preston Died iVovember, 1867.
1856. George W. Hopkins Died March, 1861.
Edward M. Campbell Died June, 1878; president of Board
1871-1878.
James McChain Died March, 1869.
Charles S. Bekem Died August, 1875.
1859. Alexander R. Preston Died.
George V. Litchfield Died February 5, 1875.
Samuel V. Fulkerson Died July, 1862.
Arthur C. Cummings Resigned.
1862. John G. Kreger Secretary and treasurer 1861-189--.
Tliomas G. McConnell.
Newton K. White.
1864. Charles J. Cummings.
1869. David G. Thomas.
James Fields.
1871. James L. Wliite.
Samuel N. Honaker Died January 22, 1903.
1875. Robert A. Preston.
Daniel Trigg Prasident of Board 1878-1904.
James C. Greenway.
1878. John F. Sutton.
1880. Thomas W. White.
1886. George E. Penn Secretary 189- to 1904.
G. V. Litchfield, Jr.
Frank B. Button.
F. S. Robertson.
Wm. G. G. Lowry.
Henlev Fugate.
I N D E X /^
America, 9; visited by Columbus, 20-24, 25, 27, 42, 132, 133, 138, 142; Colo-
nists, 160-161; Republic liberty, 160-173, 199, 201, 208, 273, 277, 286,
340, 352, 354, 355, 356, 357, 359, 360.
Atlantic Ocean, 10.
Anglo-Saxon race, 12, 20, 24, 25, 34, 40, 50, 78, 199.
Argall, Captain, 15.
Africans, 15.
Appalaches, 21, 36, 38, 366.
Abb's Valley, 22, 114, 116, 146, 382, 385.
Alleghanies, 24, 31, 37; divide, 46, 47, 51, 52, 61, 286.
Abingdon, 27, 29, 132, 133, 138, 142, 157, 219, 229, 235, 242, 255, 269, 279,
280, 291, 303, 350, 366, 373, 387, 390, 392; postoffice established 1793,
437; turnpike, contract to build, 447; tolls, new coiirthouse built, 451;
calls to arms, 453, 458; officers commissioned, 464, 465; turnpike com-
pany incorporated 1830, 469, 470-483; academy, 486-493; railroad meet-
ing, 496-497; Virginia and Tennessee completed 1856, 505; turnpike,
506; railroad collision near, September 1st, 1861, 517; act authorizing
issue of notes, 1862, with cuts, 519; church bells made into cannon,
companies reorganized, 521, 530, 532; burning, account of, 541-543;
Freedmen's Bureau established, 548-554; Law Library Association
1869, 556; academy, 558; female academy, principals, 564; comer-stonp
laid, 565; its history, 616, 621; prison bounds, 623-624; named 179.
626-627; freeholders voting. 632-633; new courthouse, 634; account of
fire, 635; by-laws and ordinances, street improvements, new charter,
639-640; mayor and council elected, description of town 1835, 641, 642,
643; bank established, 644; street repairs, 645, 647; officers elected
1861, 648-649; threatened invasion by Federal troops, 650-651; small-
pox, town burned by Wyatt, 652, 653; situation — first meeting town
council 1865-1866, proceedings, 653; contract awarded for new court-
house, same completed, 654; description 1875, 654, 656; United States
court, 656; orders and requests town council, 656, 658; officers' list of,
with years served, 659, 664; lots sold by Christopher Acklin, 665-667;
almshouse superintendent, 838; west Main street, 27, 630, 638; Valley
street, 481, 630, 654; opened, 656; Court street, 481, 630, 638; Water
street, 631; Brewer street, 631.
Academy, Abingdon, trustees, 882-884.
Adair, Indian trader, 30, 32, 33, 259.
Appomattox river, 34, 35, 36; town, 36; Indians, 36.
A^ustin, Walker, 34; Austin & Co., 281.
•This index does not purport to give names of persons mentioned in the appendix,
nor names of persons mentioned in the text matter of the History.
886 Index.
Augusta county, 38, 42, 43, 44, 55; record from, 80, 82, 106, 118, 149, 152,
251, 252, 268, 354.
Arkansas, 40.
Amelia county, 40.
Alexandria, Va., 56.
Alexanders, 40.
Anderson, John, 42 ; William Anderson, 93, 258.
Alexander, Archibald, 61.
AttakuUakulla, 73, 'i4, 75.
Aylett, John, 108, 132.
Arbuckle, Matthew, 109, 152.
Adams, George, 110, 132; Samuel, 206; John, 212.
Aldridge, James, 114.
Alamance, battle of, 115, 159; creek, 350, 353.
Allison, Robert, 134; Charles, 134, 136.
Acklin, Christopher, 135, 290, 303, 375, 626, 631. 665, 667.
Ashby, John, Captain, 148.
Allen, Hugh, 153.
Armstrong, 156; James, 630, 632, 633.
Affidavit, Jarret Williams, 221-222.
Avery, Waightstill, 247.
Aspinvale, 360.
Articles of Association, 399.
Artillery, regiment of, 452.
Appendix, 463.
hnshouse, sale of, 486.
i.Qgi'xCultural Society organized 1850, 494.
Abolition, 510.
Alderson, C. W., 787.
Attorneys practicing in courts, 834-837.
Assembly, General, 158, 209, 228, 243, 244; petition to, 246, 247, 248, 250,
251, 254, 256, 257, 258, 263, 264, 266, 277, 279, 280, 281, 287, 295, 298,
299; resolutions 1781, 339, 340, 357, 370, 373, 388, 391, 392; address of,
394, 397, 423, 424; first representatives elected, 426, 447-452; 1814, rais-
ing of troops, 462, 464, 466; spring session 1819, officers elected, 467;
voting precincts established, commissioners appointed 1823, 468-469;
Lynchburg and New River railroad incorporated, 470; effort a fail-
ure, 473; representatives 1836, Lynchburg and Bristol Railroad Com-
missioners, 480; Tennessee- Virginia railroad meeting, resolutions 1849,
495-496; members elected 1859, 511; convention dissolving connection
of States, 512; commissioners of revenue, 530, 547; acts of 1867, 550;
1869, 555, 556, 621; petition 1777, 624, 625; 1803, 633; charter amended,
648; new council elected, 649; act establishing county seat, 667, 669;
incorporating Goodson, 681 ; Bristol Coal and Iron Narrow-Gauge rail-
road, begun 1877, 682.
Index.
B.
Brutus, 172.
Bristow, J. L., 8.
Bahama Islands, 10.
Bergess, Annie, 13.
Burgesses, House of, 15, 18, 34, 35, 36, 51, 106, 130, 148, 158, 160, 163; peti-
tion, 164-169, 170, 176, 178, 179, 181; resolution, 186, 187, 204, 209,
217, 285.
Bennett, Richard, 16.
Berkley, Sir William, 16, 17, 23, 36, 38.
Bacon, Nathaniel, 17, 161.
Blue Ridge, 17, 23, 34, 36, 37, 38, 41, 42, 43, 49, 130, 466.
Byars' farm, 22, 28, 29, 104, 138. i
Batte, Captain Henry, 23, 36.
Bickley's History of Tazewell, 28, 76; Charles, 367, 368.
British Indians assist, 33; government, 148; Parliament, 159, 161, 180, 187,
199, 201, 219; standard, 277, 286; agents, 294, 299, 302, 341, 348, 351,
354, 355, 356, 359, 366, 374; vessels, 459.
Baptist ministers, 845.
Baptist missionary ministers, 846.
Battes, Thomas, journal of trip of exploration, 36, 38; Governor, 220, 273.
Bedford county, 41, 79, 152, 252.
Buckingham Road, 41.
Botetourt coimty, act establishing, 41, 43, 106, 108, 109, 118, 130, 150, 152,
153, 232, 233, 251, 252, 297, 337, 349, 364, 370; Lord Botetourt, 97, 109.
Buffalo Gap, 41; Buffalo Lick, 45, 146; Buffalo Bottom, 45.
Beverly, William, 42; manor of, 41, 42.
Buchanan, John, 42, 43, 44, 45, 53, 58, 67, 84, 136, 137, 250, 669, 671.
Buchanan, Robert, 134, 271; Archibald, 135, 136; James, 287.
Buchanan, President James, 513; Buchanan county first settlers, 43, 254,
366, 103.
Burke, James, 45, 46, 53, 54, 58; Burke's Garden, 45, 46, 54, 58, 361, 362.
Burke, Richard, 155.
Bluestone river, 48, 61, 362, 363, 368, 386, 426; Bluestone creek, 146.
Byrd, Colonel William, 49, 66; Roster ranging party, 67, 69, 70, 75, 92, 146;
Thomas, 134; John, 131, 132; Byrd's boundary lines, 46, 116; dispute
between Washington and Russell, 469; Washington and Montgomery,
372; Smyth and Washington, commissioner's report, 474; Grayson, 506;
Washington county and State of Tennessee, 693 ; committee report, sur-
veyor's report, issues tried, 726, 746.
Blacksburg, 49.
Battle of Colloden, 50.
Back Creek, 53.
Braddock, General, his defeat, 56.
Barrier, Casper, 57, 59.
Barger, Philip, 67.
888 Index.
Bingemaii, John, Mrs., Adam, Mrs., Jr., 58-59.
Bridgmap, 59.
Baker, Mary, 58; David, 110; Isaac, 671, 672, 673.
Breckenridge, General James, 467; Robert, 61, 108; John C, 511; Alexan-
der, 158.
Butt, J. M., 788.
Boone, Daniel, 76; tree, 105, 142, 156, 157, 617; James, 142; Boone's
Creek, 76, 93, 228 ; Boonsborough, 278.
Bledsoe, Anthony, 103, 109, 110, 116, 130, 135, 136, 137, 221, 223, 242, 243-
263, 264, 270, 279, 287, 292, 349, 625; Isaac, 436; sketches, 748.
Bean, William, 92; Mrs. Bean, 228; Russell Bean, 92.
BoAvyer, John, 108; Luke, 108, 132, 260; Thomas, 146.
Blevins, 76.
Boquet, Captain, 81.
Butler, 84.
Benhams, 105; Benham, 428.
Beaver Creek, 110, 13*6, 137.
Bowen, John, 109; Rees, 116, 156, 271; Arthur Bowen, 133, 452; William,
135, 271; Moses, 156.
Baptists, 118; Baptist Valley, 380, 426.
Beattie, John, 132; Francis, 371.
Bradshaw, John, 115.
Bryan, James, 133, 135; William, 142.
Black, Joseph, 135, 136, 157, 229, 257, 268, 269, 270, 271, 290, 291, 292, 300,
619, 621, 622; Black Lick, 293; Black Wolf, 361; Black Mountain, 423.
Blackburn, William, 135; George, 135, 256, 258, 271, 274; Arthur, 230, 231,
620, 156.
^CJBriggs, Samuel, 135, 158, 268, 269, 621, 622. *
Bear Grass Creek, 146.
Bone Lick, 146.
Ballard, William, 148.
Batson, Mordecai, 148.
Belfast, 151.
Ball, John, 148.
Buford, 152, 153, 293.
Bracken, 153.
Brooks, George, 155; Brooks, Castleton, 268; Rev. Ebenezer, 371.
Bradley, John, 156; Reuben, 455; Robert E., 491.
Bogard, Abram, 156. ^
Berry, Francis, 156; Thomas, 271, 245; George, 245; Hugh, 269; John, 135.
Boston Harbor, 160, 172, 181, 182, 199, 207, 208, 209.
Barre, Colonel, 170.
Bernard, Governor, 173, 177.
Board of Admiralty, 177; Board of Trade, 177; Board of Officers, 363, 364.
Bland, Richard, 181, 188, 207.
Breed's Hill, battle of, 206.
Bill of Rights, 210, 212; bills of credit, 292.
Ind&x. 889
Boyd's Creek, 218; Boyd, 218; Mary, 232; Alexander, 232; Boyd's
Mill, 351.
Brown's settlement, 219; Cornelius Brown, 281; Low Brown, 287; G. Brown,
287; John Brown7349, 373, 375.
Bluff City, 235.
Big Island, 241.
Blankenship, John, 243.
Bunch, James, 246.
Braxton, Carter, 251.
Bullitt, 252.
Bond, Edward, 260.
Bannister, Mr., 264.
Bo\ATiian, Captain John, 279.
Blackamore, John, 292.
Big Creek, 93, 294, 360.
Blue Spring, 136; Blue Lick. 368.
Bamett, Alexander, 301.
Battle of King's Mountain, 303, 304, 337, 338, 340.
Bennington, 340.
Bickerstaff, 341, 350.
Butler's line, 354; brigade, 355.
Bailey, D. F., 780.
Buchanan, B. F., sketch, 781.^
Bekem, Charles S., sketch, 791.
Bull Town, 360.
Bush, James, 367.
Bowlin, Wm., 367.
Bergess, Rev. Timothy, 371.
Brushy Mountain, 372.
Broomfield children, 380.
Breeding, , 423.
Benge, Indian chief, 433, 443.
Big Moccasin Gap, 437.
Barbour, Governor James, 461.
Barr, Rev. George R., 506.
Bekem, C. S., 506, 516.
Bell, James, 42, 60; John, 511.
Buckner, General, 532.
Barrack, Solomon G., 580; Institute, 580.
Birch, Rev. Thomas Erskine, 561.
Balfour, Sallie C. and Elizabeth, 567.
Bagnell, Wm. and Mrs., 628.
Branch, Peter J., 645.
Bowen, Rees T., sketch, 761.
Bowen, Henry, sketch, 762.
Buchanan, John A., sketch, 763.
Byars, Colonel William, sketch, 774.
Byars, J. Cloyd, sketch, 782.
890 Index.
Bristol, 235, 259, 294 ; Virginia-Tennessee railroad erected, 556-669, 673 ;
boundaries, 676; 1855 — business houses, 678-679; Thirty-seventh Vir-
ginia Regiment organized, 680; newspaper, schools, 681; King College,
682; Colonel Cutt's observation, solar eclipse, 683; charter amended,
683; first officers, rules and regulations adopted, 684; lots sold, James
Bank incorporated, 685; city incorporated, officers, corporation court
established, 686; census Virginia-Tennessee, officers, 687, 689.
C.
Confederate troops roster, 867-881.
Caesar, 172.
Congressional Library, 8.
Columbus, Christopher, 10, 20.
Cabot, John, 10, 79; Sebastian, 10.
Clinch Mountain, 10, 82, 115, 132, 134, 135, 136, 156, 157, 272, 369, 370, 388,
420.
Croatan, 12.
Chesapeake Bay, 12, 14.
Cape Henry, Cape Charles, 12.
Colony, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 34, 43, 47, 143, 148, 286, 295.
Canada, 76, 147, 182, 199; British Canada, 40, 51; French expelled from,
acquired by, 380.
County court system organized, 16, 256, 263, 275, 280, 285, 289, 299, 446.
Counties — Smyth county, officers, lawyers, 472, 473; Scott county, 465;
July, 1819, negro tried, 467; minute books destroyed, 468; Washington
court members, description of, 1832, 476, 480; new jail erected 1837,
481; new buildings 1850, 489; members elected by vote, 493; 1852, slave
convicted, 514; railroad directors appointed, proceedings regarding
slaves, money voted for army supplies, police protection, home defence,
field officers, more money appropriated, officers appointed 1861, 515-
519; April term 1864, money levied to buy grain, 533, 546, 547; Freed-
men's Court established, 548-549; officers elected, 555; last term old
County Court, April, 1870, 555; 1776, 621; order entered, 622; pro-
ceedings, 624; prison plan 1779, 633; 1838, 643, 644; elected, 645; reso-
lutions of court, 647; Augusta organized, 42.
Charles I, 16, 161, 172; Charles II, 16, 37, 123.
Cromwell, 16, 117, 161.
Chelsea, 17.
Counties established west of mountains, 18; Scott 1814, 464; officers of,
465, 466; Smyth county, 472.
Crow, James, sketch, 787.
Campbell, Thomas J., sketch, 789.
Church of Christ ministers, 846.
Christian minis Lcrs, 845.
Columbia, S. C, 21.
Cafitachieque, 21.
Castle Woods, 22, 134, 142, 235, 272, 363, 365, 367, 386, 388, 426.
Crockett, Mr., 22; Samuel, 46, 130, 131, 133; Joseph and Esther, 45-54.
Index. 891
Cherokee Indians, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27; battle Chickasaw Old Fields, 32, 40,
53, 60, 61, 67, 70, 72, 75, 93, 106, 142, 143, 157, 217; town, 220, 232, 234,
235, 236, 237, 240, 241, 243, 245, 246, 248, 250, 262, 263, 268, 278, 304,
341, 349, 364, 366, 379, 385, 420; Creek nation, 24, 27, 30; passion for
revenge, 31; principal town, 31, 217, 263, 349, 379, 380, 386, 420;
Cherokee river, 24, 44, 102, 155.
Cootcla river, 24.
Clinch, 24, 28, 32, 35, 44, 50, 109, 114, 142, 143, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150,
209, 219, 222, 229, 246, 248, 254, 271, 286, 288, 294, 295, 361, 363, 364,
367, 368, 387, 388, 420, 426; valley, 28; visited bv Shawnese, 33, 48, 76,
84, 287.
Cumberland river, 25, 50, 147, 250, 254, 263, 264, 266, 268, 278; mountaias,
48, 50, 104, 143, 278, 279, 280, 480; Gap, 27, 33, 46, 50, 76, 280, 349,
364, 366, 379, 420, 431; Cumberland county, 69, 358.
Clear Fork creek, 28.
Catawba river, 31, 81; Indians, 60; road, 130.
Choto, 31, 74, 244; Chote, 246, 294, 348, 360, 361, 365, 366, 386, 420.
Carolinas, 32, 234, 241, 292, 294, 299, 340, 388.
Campbell, Arthur, 32; captured by Indians, 67, 84, 109, 130, 131, 132, 133,
135, 146, 149, 201, 204, 209, 218, 242, 250, 252, 255, 256, 262-274, 285,
287, 289, 292, 299, 342, 348, 349, 350, 364, 376, 391, 392; charges against,
302, 403; communications relative to charges, 404, 419; memorial, 418-
419; talk to Indians 1787, 421, 424, 431, 432, 435, 436; militia report,
443 ; death, epitaph, 463, 464, 625, 707 ; sketch, 748.
Clerks, deputies, 837-838.
Commissioners of revenue, 838-839.
Constables on Holston, 840-841.
Campbell, Preston W., sketch, 776.
Campbell, Robert, 42, 134, 155, 271; Major Charles, 43, 45; Michael, 48;
Campbell, John, 156, 157, 254, 271, 275, 290, 306, 373; sketch, 791;
Margaret, 84; Robert, 84, 156, 301, 372; James, 84; Patrick, 84; David
and daughters, 84, 256, 270, 290; Isaac, 293; Governor David, 118, 142,
201, 452, 459, 461; sketch, 766; Joseph T., 513; sketch, 775; General
William, 133, 156, 233, 269, 272, 274, 275, 286, 289, 292, 339, 341, 350,
355, 356, 357, 358, 359, 366, 369, 370; sketch, 749; Colonel James, 463;
William, 201, 203, 207, 256, 302, 626; Edward, 452; sketch, 774; Camp-
bell's Station, 290; David, 298; General John B., 463; sketch, 792;
Charles, 370; Campbell's choice, 45; E. M. Campbell, 647; Campbell's
X-Roads, 462.
Campbell, John A., 771.
Christian, John, 42; Colonel William, 53, 79, 130, 131, 148, 149, 157, 187,
233, 255, 236, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 247, 250, 255, 26; Christiansburg^
58; railroad convention, 495, 505; Gilbert Christian, 93. 262, 268, 271,
290; Israel, 108, 109; William, 109, 130, 131.
Cripple Creek, 54.
Crown Point, 56.
893 Index.
Cocke, Captain \^illiam, 56, 103, 137, 227, 228, 245, 283, 264, 270, 275, 299,
625; sketch, 748.
Cull, James, 59.
Connie, Mathias, 58.
Cook, John, 59.
Cole, 60.
Chiswell, Colonel John, discovers lead mines, 69, 71, 90, 513.
Cox, 76, 367; Mrs. 387.
Carter's Valley, 76, 115, 116, 219, 222, 259, 262, 266, 267, 299.
Carter, Thomas, 43; John, 219, 420; Landon Carter, 398.
Creek, Boone's, 76.
Creek, John's, 79, 80.
Cloyd, Mrs., 46, 79; David, 79, 80; Major Joseph, 352, 363.
Carr, 84, 85; William, 114; Dabney, 181.
Colvill, Andrew, 110, 135, 141, 157, 274, 287, 290, 301.
Crabtree, William, 114; Abraham, 271.
Crab Apple Orchard, 45.
Crab Orchard, 115, 117, 279.
Cameron, Alexander, 116, 218-219, 222-235, 241, 248; John A., 493, 513.
Clyce, C. L., 103, 137, 235, 275.
Chickasaw Indians, 32, 60, 61, 106, 217; Old Fields, battle of, 32, 106.
Chiles, Walter, 34.
Clayborne, Colonel William, 35.
Castle Creek, 45, 157, 257.
Cedar Creek, 45; Cedar Run, 45.
Crawfords, 42; Rev. Edward, 576.
Crisman, Isaac, 219.
Creswell, William, 231, 233, 620.
College, Martha Washington, 232.
College, William and Mary, 267.
Choctaws, 217.
Cove Creek, 234, 235.
Chickamauga, 248, 263, 294, 295, 360, 365, 366, 386, 387.
Chickamauga Creek, 360.
Calvatt, James, 263.
Coulter, John, 268, 269, 270, 275, 285.
Cooper, Francis, 272.
Calloway, Richard, 279, 280.
Clark, George Rogers, 285, 286, 295, 298, 368.
Clark, William B. (incident of flag), 513.
Clark, David B., sketch, 783.
Carson, David, 291, 292, 301, 370, 624.
CornwallLs, 292, 301, 302, 341, 350, 351, 352, 355, 356, 357, 358, 359.
Churton, 300.
Concord, 340.
Charlottesville, 357.
Coosa river, 360, 361.
Index. 893
Clements, 360.
Cuttawa, 365.
Cockrell, Simon, 371; Moses, 433.
Culpeper county, 53.
Cunningham, Robert, 42.
Creek Peak, 49.
Cullodon, battle of, 53.
Cummings, Rev. Charles, 119; call to Sinking and Ebbing Spring, character
of congregation, 119, 139, 141, 201, 204, 229, 230, 231, 232, 371, 619,
620; sketch, 747.
Cummings, Colonel A. C, 531, 619, 643, 644; sketch, 784.
Cummings, Judge David C, 774.
Church and State separation, 119-123.
Culberson Creek, 130; Culberson Bottom, 362.
Catherines, James, 134-135.
Craven, Joseph, 135.
Craig, Robert, 137, 259, 269, 274, 285, 290, 301, 625, 626, 633, 640.
Craig, James, 375.
Craig county, 143.
Craighead, Rev. Thomas Brown, 371.
Cochran, 143.
Cresap, Captain, 145.
/Clay, Mitchell, 146; Henry, 486, 632.
Corlin, John, 146.
Connally, John, 146.
Cabin, 146, 148.
Cowan, James, 150.
Camp Union, 150.
Cantiff, Ensign, 153.
Carmack, John, 155. .''
Casey, William, 155, 230, 231, 272; Nancy, 230-231.
Crow, John, 157.
Crow, James, sketch, 787.
Gary, Archibald, 181.
Charleston, 182.
Charles City, 462.
Chatham, Lord, 183, 201.
Cambridge, 207.
Commonwealth, 212, 241, 247, 249, 256, 260, 263, 266, 267, 27/, 289, 291,
294, 370, 373, 851.
Census of Virginia, 851; Washington county, 851.
Coale, Charles B., 379, 626 (description of Abingdon, 1875), 654-656, 658;
sketch, .
Caw-a-tie, 386.
Conn, Gerrard T., 437, 634.
Caldwell, James, 443.
Celebration 4th July, 1812— toasts, 453-457.
894 Index.
Chippawa, battle of, 463.
Cass, General Lewis, 489.
Catlett, Rev. Thomas, 529.
Callahan, Edward and Succy, 629-630.
Cosby, Rev. Lewis F., 643; sketch, 795.
Carnahan, S. W., 647.
Cutts, Colonel Richard, 683 ; letter Superintendent United States Coast Sur-
vey, 721, 725.
Circuit Superior Court of Law and Chancery, 486.
Courthouse bell, Wytheville (inscription on), 46L
Court of Russell county, members, 388-389.
Court orders 1780, ?03, 304.
County levy, 284, 290, 291.
Commissioners, 258, 259, 260, 285, 289.
Committee on Privileges and Elections, report, resolutions, 264, 266, 475.
Continental army, 256, 367, 373.
Colonial Convention, 207.
Constitutional Convention, 242, 256; division of State, 425, 466; suffrage
votes, 470, 471; qualification of voters, 492; State and county officers
elected by the people, 492-493; ordinance to appeal, 514, 549; ratified
by the people, 553; objectionable clauses, 554, 555; members of, 820.
Constitution and charter, 15, 119, 182, 241, 242, 249, 256, 263, 424.
Congress, 187, 160, 173, 191, 199, 201, 203, 206, 210, 212, 256, 349, 373, 374,
391, 392; memorial, 392, 394, 398; representative election 1793, 431,
474 ; seats contested, 547, 551 ; remove civil officers, appointments, 554 ;
bills passed, 555.
Congress, members oi, 755-764, 816.
County Court, members of, 820-829.
D.
Dunnington, C. A., 8.
Davidson, T. D., 8; Mrs. Andrew, 380; Andrew, 380; John, 426; Davidson
county, 398.
De Soto, 10, 20; explores county, 21, 22, 23, 31.
Dare, Anninas and Virginia, 11.
Delaware, Lord, 14; State, 173; tribe, 152.
Dale, Sir Thomas, 14.
Dutch, 15, 40.
Diggs, Dudley, 181 ; Edward, 16.
De Biedma, Louis Hernandez, 21, 22, 23.
Draper, 34; Mrs., 44, 57, 59; Draper's Meadows, 46; Indian massacre at,
57, 361; John, 57; Mrs. John, 57; George, 380.
Dan River, 36.
Dority, Indian trader, 40.
Dickenson, Adam, 42; Dickenson Fort, 67; Dickenson, Captain, 152, 153;
Dickenson county, 255 ; Henry, 367, 368, 369 ; Humphrey, 367. v.
Dickensonville, 389, 390.
Dissenters, 43, 62, 162.
Index. 895
Davis, James, 45, 53, 54, 78, 109, 272; Davis' Fancy, 45, 53; Bottom, 49, 67;
Mrs. Davis, 57; Robert, 109, 133; Davis, 243; John, 273; President
Jefferson Davis Cabinet, 514, 523; Joseph Davis, 547.
Duke of Cumberland, 50.
Dublin, 53.
Dinwiddie, Governor, 55, 67.
Duncard's Bottom Fort built, 56, 57, 67.
Darries, Benj., 60.
Dunlap, '—, 61.
Demere, Captain, 70, 74.
Dobbs, Governor, 69.
Doach, Robert, 109, 130, 131, 269, 270, 622.
Douglas, James, 13, 146, 147, 148; John, 295; Samuel, 245; Stephen A., 511.
Dunlop, Ephraim, 132, 260, 277, 300; John, 295.
Drake, Joseph, .
Dunkin, John, 134, 157, 259, 272, 275, 285.
Duncan, 244; Elizabeth, 245.
Dunn, Isaac B., 493.
Dougherty, John, 136.
Dunmore, Lord, 147, 149, 150, 151, 153, 156, 160, 185, 204, 205, 208, 209.
Darnell, Lawrence, 148.
Draper, Joseph, sketch, 757.
Davenport, Peter J., sketch, 778.
Dunn, D. C, sketch, 783.
Davis, Joseph W., 794.
Duke of Grafton, 180.
Dartmouth, Lord, 199.
Dorchester Heights, 209.
Declaration of Independence, 208, 213, 216, 217.
Design of State seal, 212.
Doggett, -, 218.
Dragging Canoe, 223, 228, 248, 263, 294.
Dysart, James, 255, 267, 271, 274, 287, 288, 370, 375, 376, 622.
Deputy attorney, 260.
Drummon, Margaret, 270.
Doak, Samuel, 283 ; Doak's, David, Mill, 363.
Donaldson, Alexander, 290, 299, 366, 375.
Deep River, 352.
District Commissioners, 364.
Dryden, William, 372.
Dials, , 385.
Duff, Captain, 452.
Dixon, Captain Henry St. John, 632; George, 452; Captain Henry, 453, 460.
Democrats, 486, 493; convention, 511.
Damascus, 692, 693.
896 Index.
E.
Episcopal ministers, 845.
Eriekson, Leif, 9.
Edmondson, Rees B., sketch, 778.
England, 10; Church of, 43, 103, 153; King of, 208; crown of, 267, 358.
East India Company, 82, 183, 186; East India Islands, 10.
Euphrates, 18, 39; Brotherhood of, 49.
English, 24; route of travel, 27, 31, 35, 36, 47, 51.
Eden, 25 ; Eden's Ridge, 76.
Explorations, 34, 35, 47, 48.
Esisex county, 42.
Europe, 2, 42.
English, Mrs., 59; John, 60; Mrs. Mary, 60; Stephen, 422; William, 422.
Expedition Sandy river, 60; Captain Robert Wade, .
East Tennessee, 106.
Estill, Benj., 108, 130, 301, 452; Estillville established, 466; sketch, 768.
Episcopalians, 117.
Eleven-Mile Creek, 134, 135.
Eighteen-Mile-Creek, 132, 135, 157, 257.
Elk Garden, 134, 135, 156, 287.
Elk Horn Creek, 146.
Ebbing Spring, 138, 139, 341, 371.
Elk Fork, 150.
Eppes, Major J'rank, 208.
Elizabethton, 262, 278.
Ewing, Samuel, 242.
Evans, Jesise, 116; destruction of family, account of, 295, 298; Samuel, 290;
Mrs. Evans, 295, 298.
Eaton, Amos, 268.
Elliott, James, 277.
Emigration to Kentucky, 283.
Estanola, 361.
Elmires, , 423.
Emancipation of slaves, 444.
Election — James Madison, 453; Congress representatives, 474; votes, 47,
475; precincts established, commissioner, 475; Whig ticket, 489, 490;
members to convention, 491, 492; election 1852, popular vote, 493;
secession, result of, 512; Confederate States county officers, State offi-
cers 1865, 47, 54; Conservatives and Radicals, 551, 552, 553, 554; free-
holders voting, 562; 1802, 633, 634.
Elizabeth Furnace, 408.
Emory and Heniy College founded, 486, 575; presidents of. 579.
Eckerbusch, Charles, 518.
Edmondson, L. P., sketch, 789. •
Education, 556. 580. 569; Bristol-Goodson Academy 1862, 680, 682, 687.
Index. 897
Edmiston, William, 32, 103, 132, 133, 134, 135, 201, 203, 256, 258, 262, 263,
264, 269, 302, 369, 370, 375, 376, 402; Robert, 235, 271; Samuel, 138,
139; William P., 467; William, sketch, 749.
Earnest, John H., sketch, 777.
F.
Ports, description of, 125; Loudoun, 31; built, 68, 69; captured by Indians,
70, 72, 74, 75; Du Quesne, 31, 69, 70; Necessity, 55; Frederick, 56;
Lewis, 56, 61; Vause, 57, 58, 62; Dickenson, 67; Robinson, 70, 72;
Patrick Henry, 71, 218, 228, 235, 242, 246, 259; Prince George, 73, 74;
Black, 76, 231, 233, 235, 242, 254, 288; Stanwix, 85, 93, 148; Bryan's,
103, 235; Cocke, 103, 235, 275; Edmiston, 103, 104, 235; Eaton, 103,
219, 228, 235; Bledsoe, 103, 104, 235; Thompson, 104, 235; Chiswell,
70, 115, 134, 219; Knox, 115; Wynn, 117, 235; Russell, 147, 150, 156:
Pitt, 150, 151; Blackamore, 156, 157, 234, 235, 248; Moore, 156; Glade
Hollow, 157, 235, 287, 288; Lee, 235; Crab Orchard, 235; Gillespie,
235; Womack, 235; Priest, 235; Mumps, 235; Rye Cove, 235, 246;
Logan, 279; Boone, 279; Elk Garden, 287, 288; Erie, 459; Knox, 114;
Pitt, 151; Glade Hollow, 157.
Ford, Cloud's, 93; Cloud's Creek, 248.
Fleet, Captain Henry, 35.
French-Broad river, 243, 200; French-Indian war, 53, 59, 103, 114, 147, 162.
French explorers, 10, 24, 31, 44, 47, 51, 55, 56, 60, 69, 75; France, 20; gov-
ernment, 40.
Florida, 10; visited by De feoto, 20, 21.
Frederick county established, 19, 42, 118, 252.
Fredericksburg, 69, 150.
Floyd county, 23, 36, 37; John Floyd, 131, 146, 147, 156; Ben Rush Floyd,
511, 512; sketch, 775.
Fallen, Rob*t, 36; Fallin, 243, 244.
Falling Creek, 136.
Fountain, John, 38; journal of exploration, 39.
Fountainbleau, treaty of, 76.
Findley, John, 42, 43, 104, 156, 271; George, 155; Alexander, 483; Captain
F. S., 257 ; Connally, 458.
Favilkner, George M., 50.
Freeland, Isaac, 59.
Forks, 45.
iiriendship, 103.
Fleenor, John, Michael, 104; Indian raid, 427; Casper. Nicholas, Lilburn,
104.
Fiy, Colonel Joshua, 55; ? Fry, 300.
Flemming, William, 108, 146, 152, 153, 232, 233, 287.
Ferguson, Samuel, 116; Colonel, 341, 350.
Fulkerson, James, 136, 271, 301; Colonel Samuel V., 518, 522, 680; sketch,
770.
Fulkerson, Colonel Abram, sketch, 762.
Fowler, John, 271; James, 271.
898 Index.
Fowler, 1. C, sketch, .
Foley, 143.
Forbes, 355.
Falmouth, 151.
Field, Captain John, 152, 153; Fields, William, 489, 644.
Pield officer Wasliington county, Montgomery, 363.
Fielder, Charles, 156.
Fain, Samuel, John, 155.
Forney, Peter, 155.
I'aneuil Hall, 178.
Fletcher, Ambrose, 234.
Franklin, Benj., 212.
Frankland, State ot, 391, 398, 419; officers elected 1785, declaration, 400,
402.
Fryley, Frederick, 367, 387.
Fifteen-Mile Creek, 271, 272.
Frost, Rev. John, 371.
Fulton, Hugh, report of, 372; John, 452; Andrew S., 489.
Federal Union, 391, 420; troops, 447.
Freemen, address to, 394, 397.
l<'reedmen's Bureau established, 548.
Freeholders, 484.
Frazer, John, 429.
Flag Pond, 465.
J<"riel, Daniel and Manassas, 628, 630.
Fulton, John H., sketch, 757.
Fulton, Andrew S., sketch, 758.
Floyd, Governor John B., sketch, 767.
Fincastle county organized, 130; militia officers, 853.
G.
Greenland, 9.
Greenbrier river, 50, 51, 55.
Greenup, John, 115.
Green, Mrs., 81; Green river, 143, 365; John, 148.
Greenway's store, 260.
Green Springs, 269.
Greene, General, 348, 349, 350, 351, 352, 353, 354, 356, 357.
Green county, 398.
Grenville, Sir Richard, 11, 174, 176.
Grenville, 163.
Gosnold, Bartholomew, 13.
Gates, Captain, 14.
Gate City, 466.
Gulf of Mexico, 20-40.
Georgia, 21, 24, 173, 199, 234; militia, 236, 298, 299, 386.
Great River, 21, 22.
Great Spirit, 25, 244.
Index. 899
Great Lick, 48-49.
Great Meadows, 55.
Great Burning Springs, 61.
Great Road, 133, 136, 137.
Great Island, 295, 242.
Great Bridge, 208.
Great Britain, 181, 187, 204.
Great Falls, 146.
Great Crossing, 146.
Great House, 145.
Glade Spring, 29, 556, 689, 691: officers, postmasters, 690, 691.
Greece, 30.
Germania, 38.
Germany, 104-208.
Gouch, Governor vVilliam, 41-42.
Gooseberry Garden, 45.
Gisp, Christopher, trip of exploration, 47, 55.
Gist, Nathaniel, 76, 83, 84, 241, 247, 617.
Gist's river, 48.
Gray, Benj., 271; Joseph, 458.
Gray, Mr., 51; Benj., 271.
Garrison, William, 116.
Gallion, Hugh, 134, 135.
Galloway, Davis, 135.
Guilford Courthouse, 352, 353; militia, 354, 356, 359; Guilford county, N.
C, 353.
Gass, Captain David, 143.
Caspar's Lick, 147.
Governor of the Colony, 148.
Goldman, 153.
Graham, , 60; Joseph J., 153, 531, 779; Benjamin, 155.
Godman, John, 58.
Griffith, Moses, 59.
(jolT, Andrew, 156.
Gage, General, 1<8, 206, 337.
Greer, Andrew, 217.
Goodpasture, Abraham, 269, 291.
Gamble, Josiah, 271.
(4ilmer, 272.
Gilbert, Joseph, 436.
Gibson, John, .
Goodson, Samuel E., 482, 489, 556.
Greendale, 693.
Gibson, James King, sketch, 760.
Greever, H. A., 780.
Greever, James S., 780.
Gibson, John, 782.
900 Index.
Grant, Robert E., 782.
General Assembly, members of, 779, 791, 817, 819.
Governors, 766-768.
H.
Haywood, Judge, 8.
Humboldt, 9.
Henry the VII, 10.
Henry, Captain Spotswood, recruits men for regular army, press notice of,
451-452.
Henry, Patrick, 17, 146, 171, 172, 181, 188, 191, 201, 204, 205, 207, 208, 242;
petition to, 404, 405; message of, 408-411.
Henry, Samuel, 271; John, 115, 157.
Hogohegee river, 21, 24, 25, 44.
Hendricks, T. P., 22.
Henderson, Richard, 278-279.
Henderson, 350.
Holston, 10, 24, 25, 30, 32; valleys visited by Cherokees, 32, 33, 35, 44, 49,
50, 53, 55, 56, 58, 60, 76, 103, 109, 114, 115, 132, 142, 149, 155, 209, 222,
229, 241, 242, 244, 251, 259, 264, 267, 268, 270, 271, 273, 286, 288, 298,
300, 348, 359, 372, 376, 380, 388; North Fork, 27, 28, 29, 30, 41, 49, 50;
Middle Fork, 28, 29, 30, 46, 53, 54, 67, 134, 223, 271, 288, 289; South
Fork, 46, 271, 422.
Holston, Stephen, 46, 53.
Hoe, Richard, 34.
Hale, D., 35, 36, 151.
Hite, Joist, 41-42.
Harper's Ferry, 43, 517.
Harmon, Adam, 44, 51, 57.
Harman, Valentine, 59; Mathias, Jacob and Henry, 115; Peter and Jacob,
116.
Harman, Henry, George, Mathias, Indian fight with, 380, 381, 385.
Holly Bottom, 45.
Hughes, John, 48; Samuel, 367; Ashford, 51.
Hughey, James, 151, 155, 156.
Hancock county, 50.
Hancock, Corneliuis, 240; John, 206.
Hanover county, 359, 360.
Hanover Presbytery, 119, 123.
Highland forces, 50.
Hogg, Captain Peter, 56, 60, 62, 81.
Harrison, Benjamin, 58, 188, 201.
Harrison, William Henry, elected 1840, death of 1841, order of court, 486.
Harrison, Henry, 146; Captain, 152; Benjamin, 181.
Huff, A. J., sketch, 790.
Hughes, R. W., sketch, 794.
Hydon, Samuel, 58.
Houck, Michael, 58.
Index. 901
Hicks, Christopher, 60.
Horseshoe Bend, New river, 61.
Hawkins county, 93; Hawkins, Benjamin, 108.
Herbert, William, 109, 150; Thomas, 281.
Howard, John, 109.
Hunting, how followed, 127, 129.
Hunting Creek, 356.
Hays, John, 133, 135; James, 135; Hayes, 143.
Hall, Benjamin, 144.
Hall's Bottom, 452.
Harwood Landing, 146.
Harrod, Colonel James, 147.
Harrodsburg, 147.
Harrold, Robert, 230, 231, 272; Jerry, 367.
Hempenstall, Abraham, 148.
Hamilton, James, 150.
Hampton, 207.
Hamblin, Mr., 365; Mrs., 365; Henry, 367.
Hamblin's Mill, 367, 368.
Handley, Robert, 155; Samuel, 156.
Holliway, Richard, 155.
Hickman, 157.
Hutchison, Justice, 172.
Hillsborough, Lord, 177, 178, 179, 350.
Howe, General, 209.
Hessian, 104, 355, 356.
Hart, George, 237.
Harlin, Alexander, 243.
Hampshire, 252.
House of Commons, 176, 177.
House of Lords, 183; Peers, 199, 201.
House of Delegates, 249, 252, 256, 263, 277, 287, 357, 388; votes, 452, 473,
492, 639.
Houston, William, 272.
Hopkins, Francis, 275-277; William, 275-277.
Hopkins, George W., 482, 492, 511; sketch, 758.
Hazel Patch, 278.
Hutson, John, Eleanor, 295.
High Rock Ford, 351, 352, 353.
Highlands, Seventy-first Regiment of, 355.
Haw river, 351, 352, 353.
Hix, Joseph, 361, 362.
Hiwassie, 360.
Harland, Ellis, 365.
Hanging Man, 386.
Hutton, Judge F. B., sketch, 772.
903 Index.
I.
InlrodvK'tioii, 7.
Indian traders, 17, 40, 365.
Indians, 20, 21, 22; battle between, 25; Soutliern, Northern, 27; route of
travel, 29; description of, 30, 49, 51, 53, 55; treaty with, 67, 78. 85. 89,
90, 92; report Dr. Walker and undrew Lewis, 97, 102; treaty, 110, 143,
148; Point Pleasant, 151, 152; affairs, 220, 229, 232, 233, 236, 241, 243,
244, 278, 283, 285, 288, 295, 298, 248, 349, 360, 361, 366, 367, 368; raid,
376, 379; Harman fight, 380, 381; Moore raid, 382, 385; scouts, Indian
chiefs, 386, 387; Pemberton raid, 424, 429, 431, 433, 435, 436; Living-
ston raid and capture by Lieutenant Hobbs, 439, 443, 620; Illinois In-
dians, 24, 40: Territory, 32; Indian Ridge, 32; trails, 27, 28, 29, 33, 76;
Indian river, 44, 45, 46; camp, 45; Indian Chief Logan, 144, 145.
Irisli settlers, 27.
Inglis' Ferry, 27, 41, 46. 49, 51, 54, 280, 281; Thomas, .34, 44, 362; William,
49, 57, 79, 109, 130, 131, 146, 201, 281, 361. 362; Mrs. Inglis, 57, 362;
Mary, 362, 367.
Innes, Harry, 132, 242.
Illinois county, 286, 287, 295.
Iron Works, Speedwell, 350.
J.
James river, 12, 13, 15, 37, 41, 43.
?Jamestown, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 34, 352.
Justices, 16.
Johnson, Joseph, 34, 426.
Johnson, Sir William, 84.
Johnston, Charles C, 474, 475; sketch, 757.
Johnson, Joseph, 493.
Johnson, Andrew, 550.
Johnston, Judge Peter, 768.
Johnston, Peter C, 643.
Johnston, John Preston, 644.
Johnston, Beverly R., 645.
John's Creek, 79, 80.
Jeff"erson, Thomas, 51, 181, 204, 212, 213, 251, 252, 290, 337, 340. .342.
Jefferson, Peter, 51.
Jefferson, 300.
Jones, General William E., 644; sketch, 753.
Jones, John, 104.
.Jones, Gabriel, 132.
Jones' Place, 134.
Jones, John Gabriel, 136, 285.
Jones, Thomas, 261; Jonesboro, 281, 398, 399.
Journal, Smith's, 94-97; of citizen, 524, 528; Captain Robert Wade, 62, 66.
Jacob, Dutch, 59.
Judd's Friend, 73.
Joslin, Benjamin, 236.
Index. 903
•
Jim and Jerry, hanging of, 523-524.
Judiciary, 592-604.
Jack, Major, 236.
Jackson river, 81.
Jennings, Charles H., sketch, 789.
Journal, Dr. Thomas Walker, 796-807.
Jackson's General, inauguration, 475.
Jackson, General T. J., 517, 573.
Jennings, Jonathan, 135.
Johnston, John W., sketch, 765.
Judges of county and circuit courts, 768-774.
K.
King, James I., 12, 170.
King, 16.
King George I, 18, 38; 11, III, 217, 276.
King, Jonas, 115; John, 271; William, 443, 446, 493, 585, 633, 793.
King's Mountain, 103, 142, 304, 336, 338, 359; soldiers participating, 855-
866.
Knights of the Golden Horseshoe, 18, 38, 39.
Knoxville, 68.
Knox, Colonel James, 114; Knox, 149.
Kilmackronan, 22, 28, 45.
Kentucky river, 25, 50, 146.
Kentucky, State of, 27, 40, 46, 47, 50, 51 ; Bone Lick, 57, 106, 143, 146, 251,
253, 254, 271, 278, 279, 280, 281; emigration to, 283, 285, 290, 348, 365,
366, 368, 373, 379, 422, 463, 528.
Kanawha river, 38, 90, 143, 150, 151, 153, 254.
Kaskaiskia, 40, 286.
Kerr, James, 42; Adam, 271.
Kent, Captain Jacob, 58.
Kendriek, Captain, 103; Kendrick's Mill, 235.
Kincannon, Francis, 109; James, 132, 271, 402; Andrew, 289.
Kennedy, William, 132; Kennedy's Mill, 136, 272; Robert, 372.
Keswick, John, 135.
Kelly, Walter, 143 ; William, 143 ; Kelly, Judge John A., 555.
Keller, Colonel John, 481.
Kellar, Colonel John, .
Kelly, Judge John A., 771.
Kendriek. E. S., 788.
Kinkead, John, 156, 256, 272, 280, 285, 301, 375, 376.
Knob Road, 257.
Kendall, George, 13.
Kreger, John G., 530.
Ku-Klux Klan, 555, 556.
Kinderhook, 556.
Keys, Rev. James, 579.
King, Colonel James, 751.
904 Index.
•
L.
Landrum, Lucy, 8.
Labrador, 10.
Lane, Sir Ralph, 1 1 ; Turner Lane, 558.
London Company, 12, 14, 15, 16; Earl of, 68.
Lieutenants, 16.
Long Island, 27, 28, 29, 49, 60, 71, 75, 76, 83, 93, 218, 219; battle of, 224,
226, 228, 229, 234, 235, 244, 245, 248, 262, 263, 270, 278, 348, 365, 380,
388, 020.
Little Moccasin Gap, 40.
Lewis, John, 41, 42, 51, 152; Lewis Creek, 41; Thomas, 42, 43, 44; Major
Andrew, 56, 60, 68, 97, 102, 109, 146, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 349,
370; Colonel Charles, 149, 150, 152, 154, 236, 237, 240, 241; Jacob, 149;
Lewis, 234; Aaron, 267, 301, 348, 369, 370.
Louisiana, 40.
Leonard, Henry, 44, 57, 59.
Lead Mines, 46; grant from Virginia, 130, 133, 148, 157, 158, 201, 205, 209,
240, 241, 292, 304, 337, 350, 363, 544.
Loyal Company, 47, 48, 51, 52, 82, 89, 91, 266.
Louisville, Ky., 47, 286.
Lawless, Henry, 48.
Looney's Gap, 50 ; Robert, 59 ; Peter, 59 ; David, 59 ; Absalom, 1 14 ; Captain
Looney, 136; Moses, 300, 360.
Lawyers practicing in courts, 834-837.
Lutheran ministers, 846.
Long, Richard, William, 367.
Long Hunters, 50, 75, 84, 86.
Lafayette, 58, 358, 359.
Lyon, Stephen, 58; Lyon's Gap, 134.
Lee, John, 59.
Lee county, 76, 84, 351, 376; Peter, 134; Willis Lee, 148; Captain Lee, 151,
354, 355, 356, 367, 373; Richard Henry Lee, 181, 188, 201, 212; Charles
Lee, 206, 228; Lee's Legion, 352, 354, 355; Colonel Henry Lee, 358.
Lynch, Charles, 69, 293, 354; Jacob Lynch, 487, 506, 511, 643, 644; Lynch
law, 293; Rebecca Lynch, 529.
Lin, Henry, 58.
Logan, Benjamin, 33, 135, 136, 278, 279; Indian chief Logan, 144, 145;
James, 272.
-Logan, Samuel, sketch, 777.
Logan's Fort, 279; Samuel Logan, death of, resolutions, 510.
Liberty Hall, 103; academy, 105, 579, 580.
Love, Philip, 109; Captain Love, 152; Colonel Love, 242.
Laurel Mountain, 76.
Lochaber treaty, 110, 114.
Lawson, Benjamin, 132.
Lester, Allen, 137. ^
Lybrook, John, 143.
Index. 905
Lands surveyed, 146.
Licking Creek, 146.
Lockridge, Captain, 152.
Lard, 153.
Lyle, John, 156.
Lexington, Mass., 204.
Leslie, Captain, 208.
Livingston, William Todd, 439; Elizabeth and Peter, 439, 441; R. R. Living
ston, 213; Paul Livingston, 437; letter Colonel William Preston rela-
tive to raid, 222, 223.
Lynch, Jacob, sketch, 782.
Lands first surveyed on Holston and Clinch, 808-815.
Lodi, 235.
Latham, John, 242, 301.
Lowry, , 24rf.
Lanier, Robert, 247, 348.
Louisa river, 250.
Legislature, 270, 340, 369, 473.
Lebo, Isaac, 272, 289.
Lasly, John, 287.
List militia officers, 302, 303.
Light Dragoons, 354.
Light Infantry, 358.
Lockhart, Major, 364.
Letter in regard to controversy relative to navigation Mississippi river,
420-421.
Lusk, Samuel, 436.
Lake Champlain, 461.
Lawyer's Path, .
Ledbetter, Herbert M., 469, 644.
Lincoln, Abraham, 511.
M.
MacCauley, Lord, 7-117.
Mississippi river, 10, 24, 32, 33, 40, 46, 47, 51, 52, 53; valley of, 148, 420.
Martin, John, 13; Joseph, 84, 115, 135, 245, 256, 265, 269, 271, 272, 278, 295,
348, 349, 360, 365, 366, 369, 376, 380, 386, 423; Martin's Station, 387;
Martin's Creek, 84; Martin's Vault, 142; G. Martin, 269; William, 386;
Joseph, 749.
Maidens, ship-load, 16; Maiden Spring, 116, 136, 156, 254, 271.
Massacre, 16.
Matthew, Samuel, 16, 42; Captain, 152-153.
Miami Indians, 24, 51; Miami river, 32, 51.
Meherin Indians, 38.
Maxwells' Gap, 362; Maxwells, 28; Captain James, 362: Thomas, 116;
Basileel, 155; John Maxwell, 134, 361.
Mahaffey Farm, 28.
Meadow View, 29, 691.
906 Index.
Mt. G-eorge, 39.
Mt. Spotswood, 39.
Mt. Byid, 146.
Mackey, 39, 41.
McDowells, 42; James, 108, 146, 152; Samuel, 146.
McClures, 42; Halbert, 272; Albert, 271; McClures' Creek, 14, 366.
Moores, 42; James, 116, 152, 244; Henry, 103, 136, 156: Lieutenant Wil-
liam, 228, 341, 363; John, 156; James, 382, 385.
Madison, John, 43, 108; Richard, 131; Thomas, 108, 131, 132, 201, 237;
roll of company, 245; Rowland, 290; Madison, Ky., 278.
Mastin, Thomas, 268, 369, 376.
Moccasin Creek, 45, 366.
McGavocks, 46; James, 109, 130, 131, 135, 201, 242.
McCalls, 46; James, 49, o3, 243.
Maryland, 47, 173, 207, 284.
Max Meadows, 49.
Meriweather, Thomas and David, 51.
McCorkle, 54; James, 135, 146, 242.
Mercer, Captain, 56.
Monongahela river, 56.
McFarland, James, 58; William, 156.
Motes, Michael, 59.
Mann, Moses, 59; Mann's Lick, 147.
Moses, Andrew, 59.
Medley, Ivan, 59.
Montgomery, Thomas, 301; Captain John, 61, 108, 130, 201, 242, 295; Ale.v-
ander, 301 ; Captain James, 79, 80, 134, 229, 230, 256, 285, 375, 376, 402.
Montgomery county organized, 134, 253, 254, 277, 278, 292, 293, 337, 349,
350, 363; field officers, 364, 371, 372, 388.
Muskingum, 82, 149.
McClung, C. H., sketch, 790.
Mort, J. W., sketch, 791.
Mingoe Indians, 85, 143, 152.
Moab, 103.
May, John, 108, 132.
McKee, William, 109; Alexander, 131.
McCathey, James, 134.
Mounts, Matthew, 134.
McNutt, Alexander, 135, 271.
Miller, Andrew, 136.
McKenzie, Miss Margaret, 144.
Masoni- Lodge, 445, 446, 548, 565, 632.
McDonald, Colonel Angus, 14r
Mooney, James, 151, 156. ..i
MeClanahan, Captain, 152, 153
McKenney, John, 155, 156.
Mongle, Frederick, 155, 232-233; Daniel, 156; Jacob, 620.
Index. ' 907
Massachusetts, 172, 177, 178; Governor of, 183; bay, 185, 186, 187, 188,
204, 205, 207.
Mace, 185.
Martha Washington College, 232; first organized, 567, 571; principals of,
571.
Missionary Baptist ministers, 846.
McBury, Colonel, 236.
Morris' Knob, 254.
McCulloch, Thomas, 271, 272.
McGuire, Nealy, 286.
Maravian Town, 289.
McRea, 358, 35y.
Mobile, 360, 421.
Moffitt, Captain Robert, 361.
Memorial, 392, 394, 418.
McGillivray, Alexander, 421.
Middlesborough, 403.
Methodist Protestant, 845.
Marshall, James W., sketch, 763.
Methodist Episcopal Church, 844.
Methodist Episcopal Church, South, 844.
Marion, 472.
McMullen, Fayette, 482, 489, 491, 519; sketch, 759.
Marsh, 483.
McKinley, President, 486.
Mexican war, .
Mexico, 486-489.
Mitchell, John D., 489, 513, 647, 648.
Masby, John S., 510, 678.
McDaniel, William, murder of, hanging of murderers, 523, 525.
Murray, Elizabeth, 529.
Morgan, General, death of, 532-534.
Mitchell, Agnes, 567.
Methodism, 118, 613, 616, 643.
Mendota, 691, 692.
Moore, Andrew, sketch, 755.
Martin, Elbert S., sketcn, 759.
N.
New York Historical Society, 8.
Nimmo, Thomas E., 8.
Northmen, 9.
Newfoundland, 10. >?
North Carolina, 11, 37, 46, 47, 49, 173, 236; souncil of safety, 240, 242, 250,
254, 257, 259, 272, 278, 292, 299, 3fO, 301, 302, 341, 351, 352, 353, 356,
376, 380, 392, 398, 399.
Newport, Captain Christopher, 12-13.
New river, 18, 27, 35, 36, 38, 43, 44, 46, 48, 49, 51, 54, 55, 56, 58, 60, 61, 79,
908 Index.
81, 130, 150, 236, 280; ferries, 281, 292, 304, 362, 363.
New World, 20.
New York, 151, 173, 176, 182, 187.
News letter, 151.
New Jersey, 173.
Nevvland, Abram, 155; Isaac, 156, 427.
New Garden, 387, 423.
New Orleans, 463.
New State of Frankland organized, 39-419.
Newspaper notices, 390, 447 ; dissolution notice, 458 ; hail-storm, 458 ; hang-
ing Campbell Smith, 505-506; hanging of Mullens, 532, 549; academy,
559, 561, 587, 592-634; account of fire, 635; account of fire, 645, 647;
Bristol papers, 680; small-pox, voting precinct established, 663, 681.
Newell, Samuel, 246, 287, 289, 290, 365, 421.
Nesan, Jack, 36.
Natches, 53.
Nova Scotia, 56, 199.
Natural Bridge, 115.
Narrows, 146.
North, Lord, speech of, 180-183.
Nave, Conrad, 156.
Nicholas, Robert, 181.
North America, 186, 188.
Narragansett Bay, 205.
Norfolk, 208 ; Norfolk and Western railroad, 49, 257, 556.
Nolichucky, 218.
Number of warriors, 235.
Notes, 292.
Norton, Colonel, 355, 356.
Neece, Henry, 367 ; Ann Neece, 367-368.
Nafi", George E., sketch, 777.
0.
Ocracoke Inlet, 11.
Orange county divided 19, 39, 41, 42.
Ohio river, 22, 24, 28, 278; Ohio State, 25, 33, 55, 56, 61, 143, 146, 148, 153,
286, 369 ; Ohio Company, 47, 51 ; falls of, 147.
Otto river, 41, 47, 146.
Otter Creek, 278.
Overton, Captain Samuel, 61, 68.
Oconostata, 73, 74, 223, 365.
Ogleton, James, 116.
Oaths, 138, 443, 528.
Oconoree, 236.
Orders of court for 1780, 303, 304; 1782, 371; 1783, 373.
Oscher, Simon, 367, 368.
Orr, James, 493.
Index. 909
Ogden, Elias, 643.
O'Gullion, Hugh, 155.
O'Gullion, Barnett, 156.
P.
Protestant Episcopal ministers, 845.
Pileher, Mrs. Margaret C, 8.
Portugese explorers, 10.
Pacific Ocean, 10-20.
Plymouth Company, 12.
Powhatan, king of Indians, 13.
Pocahontas, 13-14.
Percy, Sir George, 14.
Parliament, 16, 159, 178, 179, 185, 208.
Postmaster-General, 17.
Philadelphia, 17, 182, 187, 188, 201, 204, 217, 374, 424, 452.
Portugal, 20.
Priest visits new world, 20; William, 135.
Potomac river, 22, 47.
Pellisippi river, 24.
Pearis, Captain Richard, 32, 60, 61, 84, 363.
Piquo, town of, 32.
Pioneers, 35.
Petersburg, 35-36.
Patrick county, 36.
Perachute, 36.
Pennsylvania, 41, 43, 55, 82, 104, 150, 173, 207. /^
Patton, James, 42, 43, 44, 45, 51, 55, 57, 82, 92, 266. ^
Pattonsburg, first settled, 43.
Poage, Robert, 42; James, 116; William, 157.
Pickens, John, Andrew, 42.
Presbyterians, Scotch-Irish, 43, 117, 118, 151, 283, 284, 341, 643.
Presbytery, 117; Hanover petition to Legislature, 119, 123, 139, 141.
Peters, Colonel William E., 779.
Price, John W., 790.
Poorhouse superintendents, 838.
Presbyterian ministers, 844.
Pendleton, Edmund, 44, 45, 137, 181, 188, 201.
Pemberton, Richard, 424, 425.
Pawpaw Bottom, 45.
Pound Gap, 48.
Powell's Valley, 48, 76, 84, 142, 234, 235, 250, 266, 279, 285, 286, 348, 349,
363, 364, 365, 379, 387.
Powell's river, 50, 115, 349.
Powell, Ambrose, 48, 49.
Peak Creek, 49.
Pulaski, 49; county, 92.
Protestants, 52.
510 Index.
Point Pleasant, 53, 149, 150, 151; battle of, 152, 154, 156, 157. .
Poulson, Captain, 56.
Perrony, 56.
Pepper, William, 59; Robert, 60; Samuel, 281.
Paul, Captain, surprises Indians, 81; Audley, 146.
Paulin, Captain, 152.
Proclamation of 1763, 81, 90, 103, 147; of peace 1815, 463, 523, 532.
Poor Valley, 104, 134.
Pruitt, William, 109. '
Pitman, William, 114.
Porter, Patrick, 136, 367.
Pittsburg, 55, 143, 147; William Pitt, defence of America, 174-183; address
of, 183, 185, 199, 201.
Piper, James, 157, 231, 291; Piper's Creek, 231; hill, 231.
Port bill, 185.
Peoples' address, 201, 203.
Privy Council, 212; order of, 228.
Population of Virginia, 851.
Price, Mr., 185; Price, Thomas, 272.
Poston, 231.
Palmer, Charles F., 257.
Patterson's Mill, 263, 268.
Phillips' Mill, 271.
Princeton, 284.
Parks, , 286.
Peery, William, 287.
Papersville, 291.
Pickens, Colonel, 351.
Paris, 374.
Parker, Colonel, 452.
Pond Gap, 480.
Polk, James K., 486.
Peters, William E., 531.
Pierpoint, Governor, 546, 548, 554.
Page, R. M., 555.
Public improvements. Southwestern turnpike, McAdam road, amount ap-
propriated, contracts let, acts of Assembly in regard to Virginia and
Tennessee Railroad Company, Saltville branch. Board of Public Works,
506-510.
Preston, Walter, 519, 522; sketch, 759.
Preston, Thomas L., 647-659.
Preston, Dr. A. R., 512, 783.
Preston, Colonel John M., 489, 643, 645.
Preston, Robert, 131, 266, 267, 370, 458, 631.
Preston, Walter, 370.
Index. 911
Preston, Colonel William, 57, 59, 61, 66, 67, 78, 83, 108, 119, 130, 131, 132,
136, 146, 147, 201, 222, 223, 226, 227, 230, 240, 242, 247, 292, 337, 339,
348, 350, 352, 363; sketch, 751.
Pridemore, A. L., sketch, 761.
Preston, Colonel John, sketch, 792.
Preston, Francis, 445, 452; sketch, 775.
Preston, Mrs. James W., 76, 269.
Preston, Captain John, 432, 433, 452.
Page, R. M., sketch, 773.
Presidents of United States, 846-849.
Q.
Queen Elizabeth, 11.
Quebec, 199.
Quirk, Captain Thomas, 287.
R.
Roanoke river, 49, 58, 81, 130.
Roanoke Island, 11.
Roanoke, Va., 27, 48, 49.
Raleigh, Sir Walter, 11.
Richmond, 13, 270, 285, 286, 337, 358, 359, 390, 492, 514, 555.
Rome, 20, 30.
Rich Mountain, Indian battle on, 26.
Roark's Gap, 28.
Ramseys' Annals of Tennessee, 28-29.
Ramsey, Thoma^s, 109, 133, 136.
Rappahannock, 38.
Robinson, George, 42; William, 60; Thomas, 60; Samuel, 60; John, 60;
Julius, 155; James, 155, 156; John, 69, 71; David, 108.
Robertson, James, 109, 116, 151, 153, 155, 228, 262, 263, 275, 294; William,
367, 388; Elijah, 155; Charles, 219; Chief Justice Robertson, 281.
Roberts, H. B., 137; Roberts, 145; James, William. 271.
Renfro's Creek, 45, 103, 137.
Richland, 45, 271, 363, 364.
Royal Oak, 45, 84, 109, 254, 275, 372.
Reedy Creek, 46, 49, 157, 271.
Reedy Fork, 351.
Roberts, E. L., 781.
Rambo, A. F., 788.
Russell county, 22, 28, 235, 255, 368, 285, 386, 388, 390.
Russell, Elizabeth, 444.
Russell, William, Colonel, 142, 143, 146, 147, 150, 151, 1.52, 156-201, 204,
209, 228, 233, 240, 242, 250, 256, 270, 295, 367, 388, 748.
Russell, Henry, 142.
Russell, Andrew, 643.
Russell, Mr., 143.
Russell, William, 130, 131, 135.
912 Index.
Richmond, James B., sketch, 761.
Rhea, W. F., sketch, 764.
Reed Creek, 49, 53, 58, 78.
Reed, Nathan, 219, 220.
Reed, James, 53.
Redd, Captain John, 234.
Redstone, Penn., 55.
Reform Church ministers, 846.
Randolph, Peter, 67, 188, 191, 201, 206, 252; Beverly, 69; Edmund, 260;
Peyton, 181.
Regulators, 115.
Rouse, Paulser, 104.
Roman Catholic ministers, 846.
Rogersville, 115.
Religious freedom, 119, 123; religion, 604-616.
Koss, 133; Travenor Ross, 151.
Riddle, Isaac, 134; George, 156.
Richerson, Nathan, 134.
Riley, John, 156.
Revolution, 150, 204, 208, 277, 340, 370; soldiers' roster, 855-865.
Rhode Island, 173, 181, 187.
Rockingham, Marquis of, 179.
Rock Castle river, 278, 279.
Rocky Mills, 359, 360.
Resolutions, 188, 190, 191.
Rowland, Captain Thomas, 233, 234.
Rutledge, President, 236.
Rutherford, General, 236, 302.
Rice Mill, 263.
Rice, William L., 676, 687, 681.
Rogerville, 294.
Rich Valley, 361, 362.
Ritchie, Samuel, 367.
Ray, Joseph, 367.
Rhea, Rev. Joseph, 371.
Rattlesnake (Indian chief), 379.
Raven of Chickamauga, 387.
Robertson, Governor W., sketch, 766.
Rowan, John L., sketch, 778.
Roads, overseers, 842-843.
Revenue, commissioners of, 838-839.
Rye Bottom, 137 ; Cave, 219, 245, 363, 423, 426.
Recommendations for militia protection, 423, 424, 429, 432, 433, 435, 643.
Republican ticket, 484, 485, 511.
Ryan, J. A. P., 486.
Reconstruction, 545.
Roberts, John, 789.
Index. 913
S. •
Stanard, W. G., 8.
Spain, 10; Queen assists Columbus, 20, 420.
Spaniards, 40.
Smith, John, 13-14.
Smith river, 36.
Smyth, General Alexander, 452, 459, 473, 474, 629 ; Alex. Smith, 629-756.
Smyth, Rev. Adam, 370.
Smith, Patrick, 59; Captain John, 59, 61, 134; Joseph, 59; Lieutenant John,
60; Smith's journal of trip of exploration Southwest Virginia, 94-97;
Daniel Smith, 131, 156, 157, 201, 204, 255, 272, 275, 289, 290, 292, 299,
369, 452; Conrad, 156; James, 219; Thomas, 373; Major W. B., 286,
300; Francis, 109, 452.
Smyth county, 92, 255, 361, 472, 474.
Smithfield, 146, 147.
Somers, Captain, 14.
Slavery, 15.
Sherifi", 16.
Spotswood, Alexander, 17; expedition, 17, 38; journal, 39.
Swift Run Gap, 17-38.
Shenandoah, 18, 38, 39, 42.
Southwest Virginia, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30, 31, 38, 40, 43, 46, 52, 53,
54; first Indian massacre, 73, 75, 81, 93, 106, 114, 235, 299.
Santee river, 21.
Salada branch, 21.
St. Esprit river, 21.
Shawnese Indians, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30, 32, 56, 61, 62, 82, 85, 143, 152, 348,
380.
Surveyors — Augusta county, 839; Botetourt, 839; Fincastle, 839; Wash-
ington, 839.
Shawanon river, 24; Shawanoa, 24.
Six Nations, 24, 25, 89, 93, 148.
Savannah river, 24, 31.
Scotch settlers, route of travel, 27, 116.
Seven-Mile Ford, 27, 28, 29, 41, 229, 360.
San Salvador, 10.
Sandy river, 81, 349, 367, 380, 388; Tug Fork, 61; Louisa Fork, 28; Big
Sandy, 60; North Fork, 61.
Sandy Creek, 254.
Sandy river expedition, 60.
South Seas, 36.
Sussex county, 39.
Spotsylvania, 39.
Sailings, John Peter, 39, 40, 41.
Salt Licks, Ky., 40; Salt river, 146, 149; Salt Lake Mountain, 48.
Saltville, 447, 496 ; salt allotted, 529 ; battle of, 534-540, 544, 557, 584, 587.
Staunton river, 41, 49.
914 Index.
Staunton, 41, 42. 44, G6, 358; convention, 470.
SchoU, Peter, 42.
Scotland, 43.
Sullivan county, 44, 229, 300, 301, 302, 392, 398.
Surveys, first on Holston and Clinch, 457.
St. Clair, Charles, 45, 46, 53, 268; St. Clair's Bottom, 40, 134.
Slielton, John, 45.
Sapling Grove, 45, 294.
Shallow^ Creek, 45.
Sayers, 46, 242 ; Captain Robert, 293.
Stalnaker, Samuel, 46, 49, 58, 67; George, 56, 109, 110: Adam, 58, Mrs., 58.
Steep Rock Creek, 46, 71, 102, 300.
Sneedville, 50.
Slietl'ey, Daniel, sketch, /56.
Slemp, Colonel Campbell, 764.
Supervisors — Abingdon District, 839; North Fork, 840; Glade Spring, 840;
Saltville, 840; Goodson, 840; Kinderhook, 840; Holston, 840.
Sinking Creek, 48, 143.
Sinking Spring Church, 139, 141; cemetery, 231, 233, 643; Confederate
dead, 649.
Supreme Court of United States, 849-850.
Spring Creek, 103, 137, 235, 291.
Stevens, Captain, 56 ; John W., 643 ; Adam, 146.
Stephens, Colonel, 72, 355, 360.
Salem, 56, 61 ; Salem Church, 284.
Stewart, Captain, 56; John, 109, 155; Captain, 152.
Stuart, Captain, 70-73; Henry, 220; John, Superintendent Indian Affairs,
85, 90, 105, 241.
Steward, Walter, 156; Thomas, 366.
Stickoee, 74.
Scaggs, Henry, 76, 114.
Sawyers, John, 93, 154, 155.
Snodgrass, Joseph, 375; William, 103; David, 132; farm, 235.
Steele, Miss, captured by Indians, 103.
Skillem, George, 108.
Sevier, John, 116; Valentine, 151, 155; Colonel John, 243, 244, 348, 360, 398.
Settlers, first, their character, 125, 161, 162.
Siram, Charles, 132; Simms, 252.
Syme, Colonel John, 359.
Sharp, Benjamin, 370; John, 137, 230; Thomas, 289.
Shockley, ; 143.
Scott (Archibald), 376, 379; Samuel, 146; General Winfield, 463.
Scott county organized, 434-455, 465; boundaries, 465; County Court, Natu-
ral Bridge and Tunnel, 583, 584.
Snidow, Widow, 143 ; Jacob Snidow, 143 ; John, 143.
Snyder, Rev. Jacob, 371.
Shelby, Evan, 146, 150, 151, 152, 153-154, 201, 203, 229, 232, 237, 245, 247,.
255, 263, 279, 280, 289, 302, 348, 360, 626; home or, 671, 673.
Index. ' 915
Shelby, John, 274; Isaac, 150, 153, 155, 259, 300; James, 155, 274, 380.
Stoner, Michael, 147.
Sumner, Jethro, 146.
Senators, State, 779-782, 819.
SheriflfiS, with their deputies, 829-834.
Sodiisky, John, 148.
Strother, James, 148.
Skidman, I., 153.
Spar, Henry, 155.
Shoatt, Emanual, 155.
Shoate's Ford, 271.
Samples, Samuel, 155. ^
South Carolina, 173, 337, 299.
Stamp Act, 173, 174, 170, 180.
Speaker, 185.
Schuyler, Philip, 206.
State seal design, 212.
Sherman, Roger, 213.
Stonewall Jackson Institute, 232, 571, 575; principals,- 575, 633.
Starke, Joseph, 237.
Starr, , 244.
Senate, 248, 2.50, 252, 263, 339.
Snoddy, John, 256. - - /
Shugartsville, 269.
Staples, Samuel, 272.
Slaughter, Jeremiah, 272.
Stopping points on Wilderness Road, 281, 282.
Speed, Thomas, 281.
Statement coimty levy, 284.
Stratton, Solomon, 287.
Summers, D., 287 ; George W., 493.
Surry county, 293.
Speedwell's Iron Works, 350-356.
Seventy-first Regiment Highlanders, 355.
Scitico, 300.
Sheffey, Judge John P., 772.
Steele, C. W., 781.
Spanish- American war roster, 883.
Snodgrass, L. H., 787.
Summers, Colonel John C, 776,
Spring Frog Town, 361.
Springstone, 365.
Sugar Run, 363.
Stanley, Mrs., 365. •
State of Frankland, 391, 419; officers elected, 399; declaration, 400-402.
St. Lawrence, 461.
Stribbling, Erasmus, 467-
916 Index.
Stoneman, General, raid, 541.
Slack, John, 681, 682, 683.
8ullins, Dr. David, 685.
Schofield, General, 551, 554.
Surveys, first on Holston and Clinch, 808-815.
T.
Tobacco used, 11.
Tampa, 20.
Tennessee river, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 31, 68; Indians ascend, 70, 75, 243, 244.
Tazewell county, 22, 26, 28, 33, 115, 136, 157, 235, 255, 385, 386, 469; bounds,
public improvements, 469.
Tazewell Courthouse, 22, 85, 117, 380.
Trails, 27, 28, 29, 33, 76.
Tennessee, 27, 29, 30, 31, 40, 41, 43, 44, 47, 50, 53, 72, 76, 93, 231, 233, 243,
244, 257, 262, 263, 266, 278, 283, 284, 290, 291, 295, 300.
Tug river, 28, 61; Trace Fork, 28, 61; Dry Fork, 28, 61, 426; Tug Ridge,
Tug Mountain, 362. \
Teciunseh, Indian chief, 32.
Turtle tribe, 32.
Trans- Alleghany pioneers, 35, 367.
Thames river, 37.
Trader's Path, 41.
Thompson, Hugh, 42; William, 83; James, Captain, 104, 109, 130, 131, 135,
237, 402; Charles, 191, 206; Valley, 157.
Tomlinison, William, 48. .
Timber Grove, 45.
Tomney, W. H., 788.
Taylor, John, 45, 116, 363; Hancock, 146, 147, 148; Zachary, 146, 489; Tay-
lor's Valley, 76.
Tracey, John, 60.
Treaty with Indians, 67, 85, 89, 90, 92, 110, 114.
Trimble, James, 108.
Trigg, Stephen, 109, 130, 131, 132, 135, 158, 187, 201, 242; Daniel, 131;
Connally F. Trigg, 489-492, 644, 774.
Trigg, Abram, sketch, 756; Daniel, 787.
Tiller, George, 110.
Trigg, Connally F., sketch, 763.
Tyron, Governor, 115.
Todd, John, 132.
Town House, 132, 134.
Tawas Indians, 152.
Tinkling Spring, 139.
Torrence, Andrew, 156.
Tate, William, 156, 354.
Tucker, William, 156.
Townsend, Charles, 170, 177.
Tugalo, 236.
Index. 917
Toquo, 243.
Telico, 244.
Thomas, General, 208; Benjamin, 38.5; Isaac, 243, 247.
Transylvania, 250, 278.
Tories, 272; hanging, account of, 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 292, 2!I3, 349, 301^
302, 360, 421.
Treasurers Washington county. S38.
Twenty-Mile Creek, 291.
Treasury, 292.
Tarleton, Colonel, 350, 354, 350, 358.
Troublesome Creek, 350.
Three Burnt Chimneys, 359.
Tuckasee, 365.
Twelfth and Twentieth Regiment Infantry, 452.
Three Springs, 469.
Tadlock, Dr. J. D., 683.
Terry, General William, sketch, 700.
Tate, Thomas M., 775.
U.
Union, 257, 340, 510.
United States, 29, 33, 228, 250, 250, 203, 277, 292, 337, 392, 421.
United States, candidates for President and Vice-President, 846- 849; judges
of Supreme Court, 849-850.
Union Camp, 150, 154.
United Colonies, resolutions of, 338, 373, 374, 391.
Ustick, John G., 447, 587, 634.
Universalist ministers, 846.
V.
Virginia Historical Society, 8.
Virginia, 10; names, 11; government organized, 13-14; divided into shir
16; sympathizers with Charles II, 16; Cromwell attempts to subdi.
16; Bacon's rebellion, 16; population, 17; Valley of Virginia, 18; route
traveled by settlers in this section, 29; Indians, 32, 43; council grant
120,000 acres, 43; boundary line, 46, 116; grant to Ohio and Lr
companies, 47-49; 800 men sent to join Braddock, 56, 143, 148, i
convention, 207; settlement, 220, 228, 229, 233; Southwest, 234, 236;
council, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244; council, 245; treaty, 247-248; Western
District of, 250, 251, 259, 260, 266, 267, 2^8, 281, 283, 284, 285, 280.
292; Legislature, 293, 294, 299; executive, 299, 300, 302, 304, 341, 348,
350, 351, 353, 354, 35.5, 3.50, 358, 306, 367, 309, 370, 373, 374, 379, 380,
380, 388, 391; resolutions, 391, 392, 420, 421; Soutliwest, 4-52, 401 ; mili-
tia, 467, 491, 514, 643; population, 851.
Vineland, 9.
Vaughan, Indian trader, 40.
Van Meter, Isaac and John, 41.
Villiers, De Count, 55.
^^ ies' Fort, 57, 58, 62.
918 Index.
Vause, Mrs., 59.
Van Bebber, John, 109.
Vance, John, 135, 153, 155; Samuel, 150.
Voters. 158; registration of, 551.
Vincinues, 286.
Vann's Towns, 360.
Van Rensselaer, Colonel, 452.
VV.
White, 308, 309.
White, Wesley, 134.
White, James, 452, 408;' dealli and rosoliitioiis, 482-483, (il7. ()31, 033.
White, Dr., 423.
White, John, IJ .
White, William Y. ("., 489.
White, James L., 76, 617, 031, 033.
W'hite's Grove Forge, 408.
White Top Mountain, 581-583.
Whitesi(le.s, 287, 288.
Wiiilield, Edward, 13.
West Indies, 14, 21.
Wyatt, Sir Francis, 10; Josejih, 052.
Williamsburg, 17, 38, 39, 55, 07, 148, 151, 188, 204, 205, 207, 208, 209. ":!.
267, 359.
Williams, Mark, 155; John, 156; Jarrett, 150, 220; affidavit, 221, 222.
\^ilhani3, Colonel Joseph, 242, 348, 351, 352.
,'illiams. Colonel Otho, 350.
vVilliam and Mary College, 267.
Yilliamson, General, 235.
Western Virginia, 17.
Wood, Absalom, visits New river, 18, 34, 35, 36, 38; Colonel .lames Wood,
43, 45, 153.
Wood, Thomas, 36.
'oods' Gap, 23, 36, 37; Woods' river, 3(), 37, 44, 4(!.
Woods. Kiehard, 42. 108; Andrew, 109.
'Woodson, OJjediah, 61.
Wolf Hills, 27, 76, 110, 1 l(i. 157, 229, 2(i9, 278, 279, 301.
Wolf Creek, 110, 135, 141.
Wolf Creek, Giles coiiiity. (il.
Witehlacoocla rivei-, 21.
W^abash river, 32.
Winchester, 41. '
Waynesboro, 42.
West Creek, 44.
W'ar of 1812, ollicevs. 805.
Index. 919
Washington county, 19, 21, 43; lands tirst surveyed, 44-48, 89, 92, 97, 133,
136, 142, 204, 228, 252, 254; justices, 255, 257; militia officers, 261, 262,
263, 267, 268, 269, 270, 272, 278, 280, 283, 287, 289, 292, 293, 294, 298,
299, 300, 301, 302, 303, 340, 341, 351, 354, 360, 361, 363; field officers,
363, 364, 365, 369, 371, 372, 374, 375, 376, 379, 380, 388, 390, 391, 394,
398-420 (1787-1840), 437, 439, 453; militia marches for Washington
city, for Norfolk, 400; tithables, order, new road, 468; representatives,
473; members County Court 1832, 476-480, 484, 493; agricultural so-
ciety oiganized, 494, 505; sulwcription to turnpike, 506, 512; conven-
tion, official vote, 514; arms furnished and companies organized 1861,
517; contributions to f:uiiilics of soldiers, 519; comjtanies organized
1862, Abingdon Confederates, 521, 529, 530; indebtedness, 533; dis-
tricts changed, 556; stocks, 622, 623, 043, 644; establiishing county,
667, (i(i9; villages, 689-693: boundaries, 693, 746; census, 851; militia
olhcers, 853.
Wasliington. (ieorge, 55, 56, 146, 188, 201, 207. 208, 209, ::54; horse, 354;
:\lartha, 620.
Wasliington College, 284. .
Walker, Dr. Thomas, 34, "43, 44, 45, 40; trip of exploration, 48, 49; visits
Kentucky, 50, 51, 52, 53, 82, 84, 89, 92, 93, 97, 102, 152, 208, 269, 300,
016, 621 ; John ^\alker, 60; Thomas Walker's journal, 796-807.
Walker'is Mountain, 103; Walker's Creek, 368-369.
Walker and Henderson's line, 350.
W asp Bottom, 45.
Waggoner, Captain, 56; Andrew, 156.
Welshire, Nathaniel, 59.
Wright, William, 50, 59.
Wade, Captain Robert, journal, 62.
Waddell, Colonel, joins Byrd with North Carolina troops, 72.
\\allens, John, 387.
W aliens' Creek, 76; Ridge, 76.
W'aUen, Thomas, 386; p:iislia, 114.
Wytheville, 459.
Wythe county, 92, 130, 241, 293.
W idencrs' Valley, 104.
Widener, John, William ^1., Lilburn. Joel, 104.
Winston, Edmund, 108.
Watauga, 109, 116, 134, 218, 222, 228, 229, 235, 244, 262, 266, 267, 271, 275.
298.
Ward. David, 110, 116, 271, 301; Ward, Artemus, 200.
Ward, Nancy, 228, 243, 244.
Witten, Thomas, 115.
Wynn, V7 jX, 116; ^Yynn'.s Branch, 235.
^^'ebb, William, 116.
Wcbh, William, first school master, 557.
920 Index.
Weddings, description of, 125-126.
Whitney, Francis, 132.
Willis, Henry, 135; John, 148.
Whitaker, Jerry, 137.
VVhooling, 149.
Wilson, (!iiptain, 152; tSaimu'I, 15;!.
Whitlow's Crab Orchard, 157.
VVoodlurd, Colonel, 207, 208.
Winston, Major, 242, 247.
Woinack, Jacob, Captain, 244.
West Augusta, 250.
Wise county, 255.
Whigs, 272, 273, 277.
Warrior's Path, 278.
Wilderness Road, 280; stations on, 281, 285.
Willoughby, Andrew, 289, 631, 633.
Willoughby, Matthew, 369.
Wilkes county, N. C, 293.
Weldon, 300.
Watson, David, 301.
Whitsill's Mill, 350, 352.
Wharton, William, 367.
Woolsey, Rev. Thomas, 371.
Whitley, William, 380, 426.
Wiley, 426.
Watts, John, 431.
Woodward, York A., 548, 549; Abingdon Virginian, notice of, 549.
Wallace's Switch, depot erected, 556, 691.
Wyndale, 691.
War 1812, 1815, officers of, 448, 449; call to arms, 4.50, 451, 460, 461, 486, 489.
War, Mexican, 487-489.
War between States 1861, 186, 545; secession of States, 513; high prices,
invasion of troops, slaves, 528, 529, 530; impressing provisions, 532;
last call for troops, 540; Stoneman at Abingdon, 652; Thirty-seventh
Virginia Regiment organized, 680.
White, James L., sketch, 754.
Walker, General James A., sketch, 764.^
Ward, Judge George W., 773.
White, Colonel James, 793.
X.
Xuala, 21, 22, 23, 24.
Yeardly, George, 15.
Yadkin river, 31, 142, 292.
Young, James, 134.
Yellow Creek, 145.
"^oung, Robert, 268.
Yancy, John, 291, 303, 369.
Yorktown, 357, 358.
Yates, 483.
Index. 921
9 66
lRR/\o78
Filed Under : 
May.10,2018
